Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], October 7 (ANI): Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Tuesday inaugurated the Space and Defence Industries Exhibition in Chennai, highlighting the state’s emerging role as a leader in manufacturing and its commitment to advancing India’s space sector.
Addressing the gathering, CM Stalin said, “Tamil Nadu is emerging as a leader in the manufacturing sector. It is the only state to have achieved double-digit economic growth. The state is making its mark in all kinds of industries. Tamil Nadu will also be a strong support to the growth of India’s space sector.”
Earlier, CM Stalin announced a 20 per cent bonus and ex-gratia payments for ‘C’ and ‘D’ category workers and employees across all state public sector undertakings, as per an official release. He attributed Tamil Nadu’s rapid economic progress to the tireless contributions of its workforce, which has not only driven growth but also attracted foreign investment.
For 2024–25, Tamil Nadu recorded an economic growth rate of 9.69 per cent, the highest among Indian states and its best performance in four years. Stalin acknowledged that this success stems from the relentless efforts of workers, employees, and officers in government, public sector, and private enterprises.
The Chief Minister emphasised the central role of public sector workers in the state’s development and noted Tamil Nadu’s leadership in women’s workforce participation. To empower women socially and economically, the government has implemented welfare measures such as the “Vidiyal Payanam” scheme — offering free bus travel for women — and the establishment of affordable hostels for working women, with new hostels planned across districts.
Acknowledging that workers are the backbone of production and economic growth, CM Stalin stated that the bonus and ex-gratia initiative aims to encourage and support public sector employees for 2024–25. He said this move will boost morale among workers and allow them to celebrate the upcoming festive season with joy. (ANI)
