Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay drew wide attention at the NITI Aayog meeting in Delhi, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The gathering was notable as the first among the 11 meetings so far in which all chief ministers participated without any absences.
According to reports, the discussions stayed focused on development plans, with no visible political friction. Vijay, a first-time chief minister and a well-known film star, was among the leaders who stood out, alongside Karnataka CM D.K. Shivakumar, West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari and Kerala CM Satheesan.
Before the meeting began, Modi himself highlighted the availability of Hindi-English interpretation, and was seen specifically encouraging Vijay to use the translation facility. Observers noted that Vijay acknowledged the remark with a smile, but did not use the translation headset through the day and listened to other leaders’ speeches without it.
Vijay’s own address was also closely watched. He delivered his English speech within the five-minute limit, covering all points without overrunning time—an outcome that reportedly earned strong appreciation in the hall, while other chief ministers were urged to wrap up by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Ashok Kumar Lahiri said Vijay’s speech impressed him, highlighting the chief minister’s statement that Tamil Nadu would work towards making its economy a USD 1.5 trillion one by 2035. Reports also said Modi spoke with Vijay twice during tea and lunch breaks.
