How Does CM Stalin Respond to EPS While Inaugurating Projects Worth Rs 7,360 Crore in Mayiladuthurai?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- CM Stalin inaugurated projects worth Rs 7,360 crore.
- Welfare schemes have benefited many in Mayiladuthurai.
- DMK emphasizes inclusive development.
- Stalin counters EPS's criticism effectively.
- Focus on long-term solutions for fishermen's rights.
Chennai, July 16 (NationPress) Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin responded to criticism from the Leader of Opposition, Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS), while advocating for the DMK government's various welfare and developmental measures throughout the state.
During a recent event in Mayiladuthurai, he inaugurated completed projects, laid foundation stones for new initiatives, and provided welfare assistance to beneficiaries. CM Stalin emphasized that the DMK's "Dravidian Model" government has fostered inclusive development across all districts.
He announced that Mayiladuthurai district has benefitted from projects worth Rs 7,360 crore and received welfare assistance totaling Rs 2,000 crore.
Noteworthy initiatives include the enhancement of Poompuhar tourism, establishment of permanent Direct Procurement Centres (DPCs), paddy drying units, desilting projects, jewel loan waivers for 18,961 individuals, and loan waivers for women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) amounting to Rs 13 crore. Additionally, 1,238 farmers were granted free electricity connections.
CM Stalin also made eight new announcements for Mayiladuthurai, which encompasses a new railway overbridge at Needur estimated at Rs 85 crore, tourism development at Tharangambadi with Rs 45 crore, and a statue installation for freedom fighter Samy Nagappan. This includes the renovation of the Kuthalam canal costing Rs 7 crore, improvements to Poompuhar harbour, construction of stormwater drains in Sirkazhi, desilting efforts, and additional infrastructure upgrades across the region.
In response to EPS' recent mockery of the "Ungaludan Stalin" initiative, which he dubbed "Kudumbathudan Stalin", the Chief Minister stated, "To me, all the people of Tamil Nadu are my family. This government regards everyone as part of our extended family, and all our programs are crafted with their welfare at heart."
CM Stalin also countered EPS' disparagement of the Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thogai scheme. "EPS dismissed the scheme during his campaigns, asserting it was impractical. Yet, today, 1.14 crore women across the state receive Rs 1,000 monthly. Even AIADMK women benefit from it. EPS's opposition is merely a reflection of his frustration," he remarked.
The Chief Minister accused the previous AIADMK administration of discontinuing welfare programs like marriage assistance and free laptop distribution.
CM Stalin further asserted that EPS's meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah was not in the interest of Tamil Nadu but rather for personal advantage.
"EPS has traded his party to the BJP for personal benefits. Even AIADMK members are now disenchanted," claimed the Chief Minister.
Reiterating the state's position on the fishermen's issue, CM Stalin affirmed that the DMK government would persist in its efforts to reclaim Katchatheevu, which he identified as the sole long-term solution.
He urged the Prime Minister to directly engage in talks with Sri Lanka to safeguard the rights of Tamil Nadu's fishermen.