Chennai, Jan 1 (NationPress) As the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections draw near, the political atmosphere in the state is heating up. The All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) is already making significant strides in its preparations.

The party has officially reported that it has garnered a total of 10,175 applications from individuals eager to run in the forthcoming Assembly elections across Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry.

Out of these, 2,187 applications came from party members and supporters who specifically wish to compete under the guidance of AIADMK's general secretary and former Chief Minister, Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS).

These candidates have sought his endorsement for their bids in their respective constituencies. The remaining 7,988 applications were submitted by aspirants wishing to contest in various constituencies throughout Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Kerala, all vying for the AIADMK ticket.

According to party insiders, the surge in applications showcases the confidence of party cadres in the leadership and organizational framework of the AIADMK ahead of this year's polls.

The application process began on December 15, inviting interested parties to submit their candidacies for the AIADMK ticket. Initially set to close on December 23, the deadline was extended to December 31 due to the overwhelming response from party workers and supporters across southern states.

This initiative is viewed as part of the AIADMK's proactive measures for the upcoming elections.

Typically, political parties in Tamil Nadu ramp up their organizational activities only after the new year begins. However, with the political environment already becoming charged, major parties have started their preparations earlier than usual.

Party sources indicate that the substantial number of applications reflects ongoing grassroots support and organizational strength, even amidst recent political changes.

Leadership is expected to carefully evaluate the applications before finalizing candidates, taking into consideration factors like winnability, local influence, and organizational performance.

In the coming months, the AIADMK is anticipated to announce further strategies for election readiness, including strengthening booth-level operations and engaging in alliance discussions as the state approaches the 2026 Assembly elections.