Tamil Nadu Minister Counters Actor-Politician Vijay's Criticism
In a strong rebuttal to actor-politician Vijay's recent statements, Tamil Nadu Health and Family Welfare Minister Ma Subramanian emphasized the pioneering welfare schemes introduced by former Chief Minister M Karunanidhi, which he credited for placing the state at the forefront in various sectors. Speaking to reporters in Coimbatore on Saturday, Subramanian addressed Vijay's condemnation of the DMK government's alleged "cash-for-votes" practices by highlighting the historical development initiatives that predate the actor's birth.
Legacy of Karunanidhi's Welfare Measures
Subramanian recalled that in the 1970s, Karunanidhi established the Slum Clearance Board and initiated the construction of concrete houses for the urban poor, describing it as a first-of-its-kind initiative in India. He noted that current Chief Minister M K Stalin is continuing this legacy through the Urban Development Board, with significant improvements such as increasing the size of government-built houses from 290 square feet to over 400 square feet to enhance living standards.
Tamil Nadu's Economic and Industrial Leadership
The minister provided data underscoring Tamil Nadu's economic prowess. He stated that the state employs 15% of its workforce in manufacturing, compared to 13% in Gujarat and 12% in Maharashtra. Subramanian attributed this industrial strength to the establishment of Sipcot and Sidco in the 1970s, which bolstered growth in both industrial and small-scale sectors.
Further citing economic indicators, he revealed that while India's national growth rate stands at 6.5%, Tamil Nadu's growth rate is an impressive 11.9%. Urbanisation in the state has also seen a dramatic rise, increasing from 30% decades ago to 54% currently, a trend he linked to sustained developmental efforts.
Healthcare Infrastructure Upgrades in Coimbatore
Subramanian detailed recent healthcare advancements in Coimbatore district, inaugurated on Friday. Medical facilities worth Rs 12.35 crore, including eight healthcare buildings in Pollachi and other areas, were launched. At Coimbatore Medical College Hospital, a modern steam laundry unit costing Rs 2.44 crore was opened. This three-storey facility can wash, dry, and sanitise 180 bed sheets every 30 minutes.
Additionally, a new multi-speciality dental unit with four dental chairs was inaugurated, serving 120 to 150 patients daily. The minister highlighted that CMCH has undergone infrastructure upgrades totalling Rs 415.23 crore, benefiting nearly 5,000 outpatients each day. Ongoing projects include concrete road and drainage work valued at Rs 9.65 crore.
Vaccination Drive and Additional Medical Facilities
On public health initiatives, Subramanian announced that 3,38,649 children have been identified for the HPV vaccination drive. Immunisation will commence in Coimbatore schools in August, following the acquisition of parental consent. Earlier, he inaugurated a Rs 2.17 crore CT scan facility at Pollachi Government Hospital, further enhancing diagnostic capabilities in the region.
Through these statements and data points, Subramanian aimed to counter criticism by showcasing the DMK government's ongoing commitment to development and welfare, rooted in historical achievements that have positioned Tamil Nadu as a leader in multiple sectors.
