From interlinking river to AI governance, Vijay govt unveils ‘Vetri Thamizhagam’ vision for TN

C Joseph Vijay-led TVK government on Thursday unveiled an expansive five-year development agenda, placing water security, industrial growth, technology-driven governance and social justice at the centre of its policy framework, as Governor in-charge Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar outlined the administration’s priorities in the first address to the newly constituted Assembly.

- AJIKUMAR CHENNAI

Projecting the government’s proposed ‘Vetri Thamizhagam - Vision Document’ as the roadmap for Tamil Nadu’s future, the address outlined a series of commitments aimed at accelerating economic growth while preserving the State's social welfare model and cultural identity.

A major emphasis was placed on water resource management. Describing the Mullai Periyar dam as the lifeline of the southern districts, the government said it would take firm measures to thwart Kerala's attempts to construct a new dam and pursue efforts to carry out pending strengthening works and raise the reservoir's water level in accordance with Supreme Court directions. The administration also pledged to intensify efforts to implement river-linking projects within Tamil Nadu and continue pressing the Union government to interlink rivers across southern States.

The government also announced an expanded focus on Tamil Nadu’s archaeological heritage. Continued research and excavations will be undertaken at Keezhadi, Adichanallur, Kodumanal, Mayiladumparai, Sivakalai, Azhagankulam, Arikkamedu, Saluvankuppam and Poompuhar. Efforts will also be made to secure UNESCO World Heritage status for Keezhadi and Adichanallur. At select heritage sites, visitors will be offered immersive experiences through Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality technologies to showcase the richness of Tamil civilisation.