Tamil Nadu budget criticized; funding issues highlighted

In a recent assembly discussion, BJP MLA Vanathi Srinivasan criticized the Tamil Nadu Budget for lacking long-term strategies. She urged the government to lower registration fees for properties owned by women and proposed a separate budget for women's issues. She also highlighted problems with wild animals, like boars and peafowls, damaging crops in hilly regions. Responding to these comments, Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu pointed out that financial support from the Central Government to Tamil Nadu has been decreasing. He noted that the state's share of funds dropped from 7.93% to 4.07% over the years. He mentioned that there are outstanding dues of ₹2.63 lakh crore from the Centre, which makes up 32% of Tamil Nadu's total borrowing. Thennarasu explained that the Centre has delayed funds for educational programs and worker wages. He added that allocations for highways and railway projects were also lower than in other states. Regarding the issue of wild boar damage, he mentioned that the state government is taking steps to control their population near forest reserves, but culling is restricted due to wildlife protection laws.