Mahabalipuram, August 20: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay has urged southern states to collaborate on strategies to combat drug trafficking, develop economic corridors, promote the blue economy, and protect regional interests.
Addressing the 31st Southern Regional Council meeting, Chief Minister Vijay highlighted that southern states contribute over 30 percent to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and are key centers for manufacturing, exports, and services.
He emphasized the need for southern states to function as an integrated economic block through manufacturing sectors, logistics parks, and freight corridors.
Welcoming the Bengaluru Metro extension from Bommasandra to Hosur, he described it as a model for interstate cooperation and urged for expedited progress on the project.
Vijay called for a ‘Drug-Free South India,’ demanding the exchange of intelligence and strict action against interstate trafficking of narcotics and psychotropic substances. He also appealed for stringent regulations on the online sale of prescription medications and action against unauthorized distribution.
The Chief Minister stressed the importance of the blue economy in the southern development agenda. With Tamil Nadu’s coastline stretching 1,076 kilometers, he expressed readiness to collaborate with other states on ports, coastal shipping, fisheries, marine industries, marine services, and tourism.
On the issue of fiscal federalism, he stated that the next Finance Commission’s tax distribution formula should consider both need and performance. He argued that states demonstrating better performance in development, fiscal discipline, and population stabilization should not be penalized. Additionally, he called for greater flexibility for states in setting tax rates post-GST implementation.
Regarding interstate river disputes, the Chief Minister insisted on enforcing court rulings, tribunal awards, and statutory provisions to protect the rights of lower riparian states. He demanded timely implementation of directives related to Cauvery water and stated that the safety and water storage levels of the Mullaperiyar dam, including raising it to 152 feet, should be determined in accordance with judicial decisions.
Vijay reiterated his opposition to the NEET examination, urging the central government to allow admissions to medical, dental, and AYUSH seats based on Class 12 marks for the state quota. He argued that the NEET exam is detrimental to students from rural and marginalized backgrounds.
He also called for legal measures to ensure that successful population control does not lead to a decrease in any state’s representation percentage in Parliament after delimitation.
He stated, “States fulfilling national objectives should not be penalized through public policy.”
The Chief Minister concluded by asserting that strong states build a strong India, expressing Tamil Nadu’s commitment to resolving differences through dialogue, mutual respect, and the rule of law.
Leave a Comment