Public reactions to the newly presented Tamil Nadu budget have been mixed, with several residents describing it as broadly inclusive for children, pregnant women, mothers, youth, farmers, young women and senior citizens.
Some welcomed announcements aimed at senior citizens, including plans for old-age homes with improved facilities. People also cited measures such as spiritual tourism-related facilities, a new health insurance scheme for government employees, and a housing initiative for the poor as positive steps.
Education-focused allocations drew appreciation from residents and academics, who said funding for school education, higher education, skill development and youth welfare should be implemented effectively to improve learning outcomes. At the same time, an auto driver said free bus travel and bike taxi services have affected their livelihood, and expressed disappointment that the budget did not include measures benefiting them.
Sports-related provisions also received attention. Residents welcomed allocations for rural sports competitions and proposals including Olympic special centres, talent identification and training for school students aged 8–18, and financial assistance for athletes, while urging the government to build playgrounds in villages and revive fading traditional games.
However, some criticised the budget as lacking new initiatives, alleging that earlier schemes were repackaged. Others raised concerns that promised measures—such as increasing women’s entitlement assistance and providing six LPG cylinders a year—were not backed by budget allocations, while welcoming the ‘Thaymaman Seer’ support for a child’s gold ring and urging caution on the NEET issue.
