Tamil Nadu Industries Minister Dismisses DMK Student Programs as Response to Vijay's Growing Influence

The minister also highlighted Tamil Nadu's position as a leading investment destination

Chennai:

Tamil Nadu Industries Minister TRB Rajaa firmly rejected claims that the DMK's student outreach initiatives are intended to counter actor-politician Vijay's growing popularity among youth.

Speaking exclusively with NDTV, Mr Rajaa emphasized that the party's educational initiatives stem from a long-established tradition rather than a response to emerging political figures.

"Our college student schemes aren't designed to counter Vijay or simply gain votes. We're building a prosperous Tamil Nadu with education as its foundation. These programs have existed for over a hundred years, not created for any newcomer," Mr Rajaa stated to NDTV.

Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) leader Vijay, who commands an enormous following throughout Tamil Nadu, has launched his electoral career at the height of his influence beyond acting. His Saturday political tours across the state have attracted substantial crowds, including significant numbers of women and young voters, raising questions about established parties' strategies for addressing his rising appeal.

The DMK government led by Chief Minister MK Stalin organized a major event Thursday to launch the expansion of Tamil Nadu's Rs 1,000 monthly financial support scheme for college students and celebrate the state's educational achievements. Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy attended as the chief guest.

Regarding economic matters, Mr Rajaa acknowledged that Tamil Nadu's export-oriented industries are facing difficulties due to recent US tariff policies. "Tamil Nadu's textiles, shrimp, and seafood sectors have been severely affected. Thousands of fishermen are impacted with their entire ecosystem under pressure," he noted, referencing reports of order cancellations from Tiruppur's hosiery manufacturers.

Mr Rajaa called on the Union government to provide assistance to the textile industry, noting that the Chief Minister has already communicated with Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting intervention. "We're hopeful for improved outcomes through diplomatic channels," he added.

The minister emphasized Tamil Nadu's status as a premier investment destination, citing new projects and employment creation. "Tamil Nadu is emerging as a key state attracting investments. Substantial investments are flowing in, creating new jobs," he remarked, highlighting the Hinduja Group's planned investments in auto battery and cell manufacturing.

Countering opposition criticism, Mr Rajaa argued that Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) statistics don't accurately reflect where industries are actually established. "FDI figures account for investments in companies' headquarters states, not where manufacturing actually occurs," he explained.

Addressing international issues, Mr Rajaa described the ongoing H-1B visa situation in the United States as a "sensitive matter" requiring "mature diplomacy" to ensure Indian talent continues making global contributions.