Wilson highlighted several governance initiatives undertaken by the Vijay government, including ending the alleged practice of commissions in government tenders.
He said the government had introduced greater transparency in the tendering process and would ensure that government revenues directly reach the state treasury.
Over ₹1,300 crore earmarked for gold assistance schemes
The government allocated more than ₹1,300 crore for two flagship gold assistance schemes that were among the TVK’s key electoral promises.
An allocation of ₹812 crore has been made for the Gold Coin and Silk Saree Scheme, under which eligible women beneficiaries will receive eight grams of gold and a silk saree for their wedding.
Another ₹560 crore has been earmarked for the Gold Ring Scheme, under which newborns delivered in government hospitals will receive a gold ring.
The Budget also set aside ₹2,000 crore for the Vettri Madikanini Thittam, which will provide laptops to college students.
In addition, the government announced an increase in the Haj subsidy for first-time pilgrims travelling through the Haj Committee to ₹35,000 from ₹25,000.
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Government reiterates stand against NEET
Reaffirming the TVK government’s opposition to the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET), Wilson urged the Centre to abolish the medical entrance examination and restore admissions based on Class 12 marks.
The minister said the government was taking several measures to address the state’s financial challenges. The TVK government had earlier released a White Paper on state finances, saying Tamil Nadu’s outstanding debt stood at around ₹10 lakh crore.
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Education, welfare and social initiatives
The Budget allocated ₹300 crore for the Palli Niraivu Thittam, a school modernisation programme.
An additional ₹125 crore has been earmarked for ultra-modern government residential schools for students from Classes 9 to 12 under a scheme named after former Chief Minister K Kamaraj.
For the Drug-Free Tamil Nadu initiative, the government allocated ₹7 crore.
Wilson also highlighted measures already undertaken by the TVK government, including the closure of 717 liquor outlets and the provision of 200 units of free electricity for domestic consumers.
The minister said the government’s broader vision focused on women’s empowerment, social justice and housing for all.
The TVK-led government tabled its first Budget amid expectations of major announcements, including a possible increase in the monthly honorarium for women, expansion of free bus travel, revenue reforms and the launch of the Vettri Thamizhagam Vision Document. The Agriculture Budget is scheduled to be presented on August 6.
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