Stalin Urges Centre to Double MPLADS Funds to ₹10 Cr

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin made a bold appeal to the Central government on Friday, urging an increase in the MP Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) funds from Rs 5 crore to Rs 10 crore per year and calling for timely disbursements to ensure seamless execution of Centre-State schemes. Speaking at the fifth state-level meeting of the District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA) in Chennai, Stalin emphasized that while Tamil Nadu promptly releases its share of funds, delays in Central contributions hinder the full realization of public welfare projects.

Stalin highlighted the state’s commitment, noting that Tamil Nadu allocates Rs 3 crore annually per constituency under the MLA Constituency Development Scheme, totaling Rs 702 crore across all 234 constituencies to enhance basic amenities. “Since we provide Rs 3 crore for MLAs, the Centre must raise MPLADS funds to Rs 10 crore to match our ambition for development,” he asserted. From 2021-22 to 2025-26, Tamil Nadu received Rs 1,274 crore under MPLADS, enabling 12,045 projects, of which 9,755 are complete and 2,290 are ongoing, showcasing robust collaboration with MPs.

On agriculture, Stalin underscored Tamil Nadu’s farmer-friendly policies, offering 100% subsidies to small and marginal farmers and 75% to others, while absorbing the 12% Goods and Services Tax. These incentives have boosted horticultural and agricultural cultivation, with 1,57,279 farmers receiving over Rs 1,312 crore in benefits over the past two years. “Tamil Nadu leads India in delivering these benefits to farmers,” Stalin proudly declared, reinforcing the state’s agricultural prowess.

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The meeting, attended by Chief Secretary N Muruganantham, ministers, and senior officials, underscored Tamil Nadu’s push for equitable funding and efficient governance. Stalin’s call for doubling MPLADS funds signals a demand for greater Central support to accelerate development, putting pressure on New Delhi to act swiftly or risk stalling Tamil Nadu’s progress. As the state continues to prioritize infrastructure and farmer welfare, all eyes are on the Centre’s response to this clarion call for fairness.

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