Stalin Urges PM to Release ₹2,100 Crore SSA Funds

Quick Summary:

• Tamil Nadu CM M K Stalin has urged the Center too release Rs 2,151.59 crore under the Samagra Shiksha Scheme (SSA) for 2024-25 and the first installment of 2025-26.
• The request includes not mandating Tamil Nadu to sign the PM SHRI agreement for fund allocation.
• tamil Nadu will continue adhering to it’s two-language formula of tamil and English,opposing NEP 2020’s three-language policy.
• CM Stalin flagged that withholding funds impacts students’ futures negatively.
• Other demands included approval for Coimbatore and Madurai metro rail projects with a proposed funding ratio of 50:50 and better suburban rail services in Chennai.
• Stalin also sought resolutions for repeated arrests of Indian fishermen by Sri Lanka, including the release of fishermen and boats from Lankan custody.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

The memorandum presented by Tamil Nadu demonstrates a clear stance on educational autonomy while emphasizing adherence to its established language policy.The state’s appeal regarding SSA funds points out potential risks to student welfare if federal assistance is delayed or conditioned.Additionally, emphasis on urban infrastructure projects like metro systems reflects broader development priorities in key regions such as Coimbatore and Madurai.

The recurring issue of Indian fishermen detained by Sri Lankan authorities continues to strain bilateral relations, underscoring an urgent need for durable negotiation mechanisms between governments. these developments further highlight ongoing regional challenges requiring collaborative efforts between states and the Centre for resolution.

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