Fri Jan 09 23:02:20 UTC 2026: ### Puducherry Grapples with Infrastructure Boost, Election Preparations, and Counterfeit Drug Scandal in 2025
The Story:
Puducherry experienced a mixed bag of developments in 2025, marked by infrastructure upgrades, election preparations, cultural events, and a significant counterfeit drug scandal. As the Union Territory geared up for Assembly polls in 2026, the ruling AINRC-BJP coalition focused on an “image makeover” through project inaugurations and laying foundations for mega infrastructure projects, including a ₹436-crore grade separator. The opposition parties, especially Congress and DMK, actively campaigned against the ruling alliance and the Central government. A major setback came in the form of an illegal medicine manufacturing racket, which led to arrests and a CBI investigation. Despite these challenges, Puducherry saw progress in sustainable transport with the introduction of electric buses and e-rickshaws, along with advancements in caravan tourism and cultural events.
Key Points:
- The ruling AINRC-BJP combine is preparing for the 2026 Assembly polls with infrastructure projects and image management strategies.
- A ₹436-crore grade separator project connecting Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi squares was initiated.
- A counterfeit drug manufacturing scam involving arrests and a CBI investigation rocked the pharmaceutical sector.
- Puducherry Road Transport Corporation introduced 25 electric buses, and plans are in place for an additional 75 under the PM-eBus Sewa scheme.
- Actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam plans to contest the upcoming elections, along with the launch of four regional parties.
- Several key Smart Cities Mission projects, including the restoration of the Grand Canal, remain incomplete despite the mission’s official end on March 31, 2025.
- The city hosted a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including the ‘Indo-French Festival 2025’ and the ‘Month of Reunion Island’ fete.
Critical Analysis:
The provided context shows several ongoing issues impacting Puducherry. The article mentions the introduction of electric buses, but the context mentions that these buses went off the road due to driver strikes. This suggests potential labor issues or inadequate planning in the implementation of the electric bus project. Furthermore, the Puducherry government’s plan to publish a report on the counterfeit drug issue, as noted in the context, ties directly into the scandal highlighted in the main article. This confirms the seriousness of the situation and the government’s attempt to address it, even as it faces scrutiny leading up to the elections.
Key Takeaways:
- Puducherry is experiencing a blend of developmental progress and governance challenges as it approaches the 2026 Assembly elections.
- The counterfeit drug scandal poses a significant threat to public health and the reputation of the region’s pharmaceutical sector, requiring thorough investigation and preventive measures.
- While infrastructure development is a priority, effective implementation and addressing labor concerns are crucial for sustainable progress, as seen with the electric bus initiative.
- The entry of new political players, including actor Vijay’s party, indicates a potentially dynamic and competitive electoral landscape in 2026.
Impact Analysis:
The counterfeit drug scandal could have long-term repercussions, potentially leading to stricter regulations and oversight of pharmaceutical manufacturing in Puducherry. Politically, the incident could significantly influence voter sentiment in the upcoming elections. The focus on infrastructure development and the introduction of sustainable transport options, if successfully implemented, could improve Puducherry’s attractiveness for tourism and investment. The completion of Smart Cities Mission projects and sustained support for cultural events could further enhance the quality of life and cultural identity of the region. The electoral performance of new political parties could reshape the political dynamics of Puducherry.
First Piper 