Chennai, Feb 17 (NationPress) As the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections approach, state Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu is set to unveil the TN Interim Budget for 2026-27 on Tuesday, generating significant political and public anticipation.

This being an election year, the interim budget is expected to emphasize substantial welfare initiatives and boost funding for existing flagship programs rather than introduce entirely new projects.

The Minister will also present the Vote-on-Account for 2026-27 along with Supplementary Estimates for 2025-26 on February 20. A primary focus is likely to be the Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thittam, which currently allocates Rs 1,000 per month to eligible female heads of households.

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has previously hinted at increasing the monthly assistance to Rs 2,000. The interim budget is widely anticipated to formalize this increase and possibly widen the beneficiary base, a strategic move viewed as electorally significant.

There is also keen interest in the recently announced Assured Pension Scheme for state employees. The report from the expert committee assigned to analyze this scheme might be released, potentially strengthening government employee support.

On the infrastructure front, the state is expected to outline its strategy after the Centre reportedly denied approval for the Coimbatore and Madurai Metro Rail projects. Anticipated developments include the expansion of the free bus travel initiative for women, the introduction of more electric buses, and new funding for roads and flyovers in Chennai and other major cities.

Through the Chief Minister’s “Speak Your Dream” initiative, selected public proposals may receive financial backing. The breakfast program for students is also expected to be fully extended to government-aided schools with additional funding.

The interim budget is set against a robust economic backdrop. Tamil Nadu achieved an impressive 11.3 percent growth in 2024-25, with its Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) climbing to Rs 31.19 lakh crore, solidifying its position as India’s second-largest state economy.

The manufacturing sector saw a remarkable 14.74 percent growth, significantly outpacing the national average of 4.5 percent, and the state accounts for 15 percent of India’s manufacturing employment.

Despite the emphasis on welfare, the government aims to lower the fiscal deficit to 3 percent of GSDP by 2025-26, with a projected revenue deficit of 1.2 percent, indicating a careful balance between populist policies and fiscal responsibility.