CHENNAI: Listing out a string of achievements of the state government in his speech in the Assembly, Chief Minister MK Stalin on Tuesday told to his opponents that this was just the first part of the ‘Dravida Model’ rule and that they would be back with a ‘Version 2.0’ in 2026 after winning the elections.
The state would witness further achievements in the next term, the chief minister said, evoking thunderous applause from the legislators of the ruling party. The CM’s speech also drew comments from opposition leaders, with AIADMK deputy floor leader RB Udayakumar remarking sequels are turning out to be a flop at the cinemas. He cited Indian 2, drawing some mirth and back and forth even from some DMK ministers.
Stalin, who is also the home minister, was delivering speech as part of the debate on the announcements which included schemes in the police and fire and rescue services.
The chief minister listed out achievements of the government; Rs 17.23 lakh crore state GSDP which is the highest among Indian states, the per capita income of Rs 3.58 lakh in 2024-25 as compared to the national average of Rs 2.6 lakh and milestones in other departments like export of electronic goods of USD 14.65 million, the presence of 39,666 factories in the state (highest in the country), 47% of women workforce, strides in renewable energy and no drop-outs in middle schools. There was healthy competition between departments, he added.
These achievements are something that Tamil Nadu had not witnessed before, he claimed, adding these had been achieved despite challenges of a hostile Union government, governor and fund crunch.
Stressing that his is a government devoted to the Dravidian ideology, Stalin said earlier regimes were identified by the leaders; Kamaraj, Anna, MGR. But he had insisted that this government be identified not with his name, but as ‘Dravida model’.
Recalling that his father M Karunanidhi had praised him (Stalin) as ‘Uzhaippu, Uzhaippu, Uzhaippu (Hard work)’, the chief minister said he would now be known for his achievements.
Taking a dig at opposition parties for painting a grim picture of the law and order situation in the state, the chief minister said this is not Manipur or Kashmir and that there has not been any deaths in the state like those happened at Kumbha Mela in Uttar Pradesh.
Stalin said the endeavour of every police personnel in the state should be to not only reduce crime, but also prevent it completely and ensure the state is free of crimes, drugs and incidents of rape. He also advised people to maintain self discipline and behave well with the police.
Announcing that September 6 will be celebrated as Police Officers day, Stalin said achievements of the police will be showcased across every district. After the House was adjourned, the CM shook hands with AIADMK deputy floor leader RB Udhayakumar and former CM O Panneerselvam and leaders of other parties.