Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin urged the Centre to release its share of over Rs 2,100 crore under the Samagra Shiksha Scheme (SSA), while underscoring its commitment for the two-language formula.
In a memorandum submitted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, Tamil Nadu Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu conveyed Chief Minister M.K. Stalin’s "contrarian views" to the three-language formula outlined in the 2020 National Education Policy, according to an official release issued on Sunday.
"The CM has requested the PM to clear the central share of Rs 2151.59 crore for the year 2024-25 and the first installment for 2025-26, without mandating (Tamil Nadu to) sign the PM SHRI agreement (vis-a-vis funds)," the release said, PTI reported.
According to the state government release, the CM pointed out in the memorandum that the Centre not sanctioning the required funds "affects the future of lakhs of students."
The state's Chief Minister is currently undergoing treatment at a private hospital here after he complained of dizziness on July 21. The memorandum, approved by Stalin, was handed over to Modi on Saturday, as per PTI.
The Prime Minister is on a two-day visit to Tamil Nadu.
Among other key demands, Stalin sought approval for the Coimbatore and Madurai metro rail projects, proposed under a 50:50 cost-sharing model. He also urged the implementation of various rail initiatives and an increase in suburban train services in Chennai.
Highlighting the recurring arrests of Indian fishermen from Tamil Nadu, Stalin called for a permanent resolution to the issue and requested steps for the release of fishermen and their boats currently held in Sri Lankan custody.
