tamil nadu assembly election 2021 amma ... - ammk …
TRANSCRIPT
TAMIL NADU ASSEMBLY ELECTION 2021
AMMA MAKKAL MUNNETTRA KAZAGAM
ELECTION MANIFESTO
S. No.
CONTENTS PAGE No.
1 Preface 1 2 Federal system – State rights 2
3 Tamil language and culture 2
4 Policy on Reservation and sub-quota 3
5 Efficient administration – Real democracy 4 6 E-Governance for people’s welfare 5
7 Corruption free noble Tamil Nadu 5
8 Prohibition policy 6
9 One job for every household – Amma Revolutionary Economic Scheme
6
10 Cost free schemes 7
11 Industrial policy 7 12 Approval to start new industries in 60 days 9
13 Foreign exchange - Special attention 9
14 Export zones 9
15 Strengthening of Ports 9 16 Coal procurement 10
17 Koodankulam nuclear plant 11
18 Withdrawal of cases connected people welfare protests
11
19 Additional assembly seats 11
20 Bringing back Legislative Council 11
21 Creation of new panchayats 12
22 Better medical care for ordinary people 12 23 Welfare of farmers 12
24 Water Management 15
25 Linking of Rivers 15
26 Cauvery Management Board with Authority 16 27 Upliftment of Fallow - Land Linked to Farming 17
28 Cattle rearing 17
29 Welfare of government employees and teachers 17
30 Women's Welfare and Progress 18 31 Subsidy for Gas Cylinders 20
32 Welfare of transgender 20
33 Radiant Plan for New Livelihood 20
S. No.
CONTENTS PAGE No.
34 Women Self-Help Groups 21 35 Youth Welfare 21
36 Two-wheeler scheme for men 22
37 Amma Rural Bank 22
38 Justice for women 23 39 Welfare of Children 23
40 Welfare of Senior Citizens 23
41 Policy on Differently Abled Persons 24
42 Minorities Welfare 25 43 Welfare of De-notified tribes 26
44 Release of seven Tamil convicts and prisoners from Muslim communities
26
45 Police Welfare 27
46 Transport sector reforms 28
47 Railway Projects 28
48 Metro rail service expansion and reduction of fares 29 49 Naming ECR after Puratchithalaivi Amma 29
50 Firm in reclaiming Katchatheevu 29
51 Welfare of fishermen 30
52 Inland fisheries wealth 31 53 Welfare of Weavers 31
54 New Textile policy 32
55 Institute of Textile Technology in Tirupur 33
56 Labour Welfare 33 57 Unorganized workers 33
58 Welfare and protection of NLC workers and safety 34
59 Welfare of call taxi drivers 34
60 State transport undertakings 35 61 Protecting cracker industry 35
62 Justice without delays 36
63 Ensuring revenues from mineral resources goes to the government treasury
36
64 Allocation of Tax Revenues 37
65 Petroleum products price fixing 38
66 Fixing of fee by toll plazas 38
S. No.
CONTENTS PAGE No.
67 Measures to safeguard environment 39 68 Western Ghats protection 40
69 Protection of hill people 40
70 Land Management 40
71 Equitable growth across Tamil Nadu 41 72 Policy for Education 41
73 Improving Schools and Colleges 42
74 Students Welfare 43
75 Welfare of Engineering Graduates 44 76 Minimum Pay for Engineering Graduates 44
77 Welfare of Polytechnic Students 45
78 Reservation in government jobs for those studied in government schools
45
79 Exemption from NEET 45
80 Review of Improving Teacher Eligibility Test 46
81 Amma Academy 46 82 Library development 46
83 New Sports Policy 47
84 Additional funds for Research & Development 47
85 Coordinating employment opportunities 48 86 Rights of Tamil Nadu in Employment Opportunities 48
87 Policy for Workers from States outside 49
88 House Loan for the Private Sector Employees 49
89 Marriage Loan for Employees of Private Sector 50 90 Welfare of MNC Employees 50
91 Fresh lease of life to cooperative societies 50
92 Welfare of Tamils Settled in Foreign Countries 51
93 Sri Lankan Tamil Welfare 51 94 Welfare of Cinema and Television Industry 52
95 Renewable Energy 52
96 Consecration of temples 53
97 Tourism Development 53 98 Welfare of lawyers 53
99 Welfare of journalists 54
100 Happiest Tamil Nadu 55
1
Preface
Thanthai Periyar brought around a revolution in Tamil Nadu by through
his self-respect movement. Aringnar Anna expanded it through his knowledge-
based approach for the benefit of Tamil Nadu people. Puratchithalaivar MGR,
who was very close to (Idhayakkani) Anna, founded his organization to
implement his leader’s policies.
Puratchithalaivi Amma followed the path of Puratchithalaivar and
worked with the focus on the welfare of Tamil Nadu and with the aim of
safeguarding the rights of the people of Tamil Nadu without any compromises.
Treading the path shown by Puratchithalaivi Amma, AMMK, which has been
named after her and has retained her image on its flag, has been progressing in
the political arena with the wishes of our Thiyagathalaivi Chinnamma.
With an vow to safeguard all the efforts and initiatives of our great
leaders in the past for uplifting Tamil Nadu on all fronts, AMMK is gearing up
for the ensuing assembly election. With the aim to fulfill the avowed dream of
Amma – ‘Everyone should get everything; There should not be any room for
anyone to feel deprived’ – and to work towards elevating people’s welfare
several notches, AMMK presents this Election Manifesto to Tamil Nadu voters.
2
Federal system – State rights
India is a union of various states and multiple cultures. Centre and the
states should bear this limitations in mind, while running the government
administration. The basis for the slogan – federal government in the Centre
and autonomous governments in the states – was this basic understanding.
The governments at the Centre have been adopting a step motherly
treatment to Tamil Nadu, particularly when it comes to Finance. All the Finance
Commissions, appointed to determine the share of the states have always
acted against their interests, especially Tamil Nadu. This approach continued
until the Fifteenth Finance Commission.
Since states like Tamil Nadu have been achieving the set targets – from
family planning to industries development – much ahead of the deadlines are
punished, AMMK will work towards implementing the suggestion of
Puratchithalaivi Amma to use the 1971 population census for distributing the
tax revenue by the Centre to the states.
Tamil language and culture
AMMK will insist that all languages, including Tamil, that are mentioned
in the eighth schedule of the Indian Constitution, should be declared as
the official Indian languages.
The Centre has been adopting an approach to name all the Central
schemes in Hindi. AMMK will work towards ensuring that such an
approach is changed and Tamil too will get its due recognition.
Following in the path of Peraringnar Anna, Puratchithalaivar MGR and
Puratchithalaivi Amma, AMMK will continue to adopt the two language
policy for Tamil Nadu.
Excavations in Keeladi village in Sivaganga district have become the
testimony for the ancient Tamil culture, which existed in the early period
of civilization. Instead of scientifically pushing the research to the next
level, Centre has been neglecting it. AMMK will work towards ensuring
3
the necessary actions are taken to establish the ancient history of the
Tamils to the entire world.
Steps will be taken to popularize the traditional foods and snacks of
Tamils through a special scheme.
A new organization will be established to popularize the Tamil language
and to further strengthen it in tune with the modern times. To
encourage such activities and undertake more researches as also to
recognize the literary works, an award of highest honour will be created,
with a prize money of Rs 25 lakh, to the deserving.
Memorials will be established in Chennai for Thiru Arutprakasa Vallalaar
and Tamil Thaththa Vu Ve Swaminatha Iyer, besides a memorial for
Mayuram Vedhanayagam Pillai, known as Father of Tamil law, at
Mayiladuthurai.
Tamil Nadu government will allocate necessary funds to organize and
conduct Jallikattu events, which celebrates Tamil culture and valour, in
all the venues, which have traditionally been holding this event.
Policy on Reservation and sub-quota
Tamil Nadu has played a significant role in ensuring social justice. The
crowning glory was the successful passing of the law, providing for 69%
reservation and including it in the Ninth schedule of the Indian Constitution to
ensure its implementation, by Puratchithalaivi Amma . She stood by it
whenever challenges came up on its implementation. AMMK will follow the
path of Puratchithalaivi Amma in ensuring that the 69% reservation is
implemented firmly under any circumstances.
AMMK will ensure that whenever there is a need to offer sub-quota
reservation for any segments of people, within the 69% reservation, care is
taken to undertake a proper study and ensure that equality is maintained and
the interests of any segment is not jeapordised.
4
Efficient administration – Real democracy
AMMK believes that administrative reforms needs to be implemented in
tune with the changing times to offer efficient service to the people. There is a
need to abandon the British-era practices, still being pursued in a few cases,
and fine tune government offices to wholeheartedly offer their services to the
people. Only then it will be a truly people’s rule. AMMK will ensure the
implementation of Right to Services Act in true spirit by fixing a timeline for
every service, so that no file gets stagnated in any one desk as part of the state
administration.
While creating new departments for the welfare of overseas Tamils and
irrigation among others, the Tamil Nadu government administration too
will be altered entirely to meet the needs of the modern times.
Grievance redressal camps will be organized, where the Chief Minister
himself will in person attend such camps at one district a month. In each
assembly constituency, four grievance camps will be organized every
month and to be attended by the local MLA.
By bringing in tax reforms, better utilization of mineral resources and
encouraging alternate revenue sources by promoting sectors like tourism,
AMMK will strive to grossly reduce the Rs.6 lakh debt burden of Tamil Nadu in
five years.
Amma Canteens will be reorganized and expanded across Tamil Nadu.
AMMK will strive to establish canteens in town panchayats and
panchayat unions.
Parks and Yoga centres will be established in every panchayat.
Multi-use community halls will be established in every panchayat. These
will come in handy to provide shelter for people during natural disasters.
Monthly cycle of billing for electricity charges will be reintroduced.
All planning approvals for buildings will be granted in 50 days. The fee
for such approvals will be streamlined to ensure a transparent and
corruption free administration.
5
High priority will be provided to maintain law and order as it was during
Puratchithalaivi Amma’s rule. Severe actions will be taken against
criminals.
Ration will be distributed at the doorsteps of the card holders on
predetermined dates. While people need not wait for long hours in
queues at ration shops, the government will ensure the quality and
quantity of rice is on par with that of the general market.
The operations of Amudham supermarkets and ‘Pannaipasumai’ shops
will be streamlined, new branches to be opened to sell quality provision
and vegetables at lower prices.
E-Governance for people’s welfare
Puratchithalaivi Amma established e-seva centres to enable people to
have hassle-free service in getting their ration cards, income certificate, caste
certificate and Aadhar cards. But the e-seva centres that are operational now
lack infrastructure and also face manpower shortage. Necessary steps will be
undertaken to upgrade them.
All shortcomings in these centres will be addressed to ensure that they
operate efficiently and deliver all the services to the people and students. To
ensure their smooth functioning, at least one employee or an official from
each concerned department will be attached to these centres.
Corruption free noble Tamil Nadu
Corruption and scams destroy not only the public administration but
also the country from within. As a result, it affects people from all segments. It
is wide spread in the implementation of welfare schemes aimed at uplifting the
lives of the downtrodden to upgrading infrastructure. AMMK undertakes to
cleanse the system by strengthening the Lok Ayukta and free Tamil Nadu from
the evils of corruption and scams.
6
Prohibition policy
AMMK is keen to implement Puratchithalaivi Amma’s thoughts to
implement prohibition in a phased manner. It undertakes to implement it.
AMMK will strive to create a new generation without the affect of alcohol and
also offer necessary and health and counseling, as per UN norms, to those
already affected due to alcoholism.
A policy decision will be taken not to permit any new distilleries or
breweries. Steps will also be taken to close down existing units in a phased
manner.
One job for every household – ‘Amma Revolutionary Economic Scheme’
Under the direct guidance of the state government, steps will be
initiated to establish several industrial units in villages and town panchayats to
ensure at least one person per household gets employment. It will be name as
Amma Revolutionary Economic Scheme.
Industries will be established under the self sustaining modern economic
principle by linking agriculture and industry, based on the locally available raw
materials. Preference will be given to employ locals and those from the
neighbouring villages. While ensuring they will receive a certain minimum
income as wages, they will also become shareholders in those units.
Products produced in particular areas will be offered at lower costs to
those involved in the production cycle to ensure they get quality products at
lower than market rates. While products produced in a district will be grouped
together, steps will be taken to ensure their sale in other districts. All these
products will also be grouped at the state level to be sold in other states and
exported overseas too, once the state’s needs are fulfilled.
A separate department will be created for implementing Amma Revolutionary
Economic Scheme. Manpower, funds and infrastructure from other
7
departments will be deployed to administer the new department , either partly
or fully.
While these units can start earning profits in three years, thereby helping the
state’s economic growth, it will also act as an example for the entire country.
The Amma Revolutionary Economic Scheme, which will help bring a revolution
in the villages and prevent migration of people to urban areas, will be an
ambitious scheme of AMMK government.
Cost free schemes
It is the responsibility of a government to work towards the upliftment
of the downtrodden and help them live a proud life. Until everyone gets
everything here, the free schemes need to be implemented. AMMK will follow
the principles of Puratchithalaivi Amma, who renamed such free schemes as
cost-free schemes to avoid causing any embarrassment to the beneficiaries.
Industrial policy
Lakhs of small and micro units had to be shut down due to the impact of
demonetization and GST, thereby resulting in job losses to several lakhs of
youngsters. The main objective of AMMK is to help the state overcome this
sluggishness and help the closed units to restart operations and thereby
generating employment opportunities to the youth.
At present, small and micro units face hardships in filing the GST returns
due to the complexity of the process. AMMK will strive to simplify those
procedures in such a way that even those in the villages will be able to easily
understand the procedures.
An Industries Development Board, to be headed by the chief minister
and to include the industries minister and secretaries of the concerned
departments, will be established. The board will periodically meet to
promote ways to attract new industrial units and to address the
grievances of the existing industrial investors.
8
High rate of GST on machinery products has impacted the manufacturing
units. For instance, the motor pump set manufacturers from the small
and micro sectors in Coimbatore are taxed a GST of 18%. Steps will taken
to reduce this to 5%.
By permitting the concerned departments to address critical issues faced
by the state-owned public sector units, operating under the Industries
department, the state could free the Industries department to focus
attention on promoting the state to attract new investments and
improve exports.
A dedicated directorate under Industries Department will be created to
address the needs of new investors and exports. The existing Director
Industries and Commerce will be attached to this new department.
Tamil Nadu was a leading state on the industrial front under
Puratchithalaivi Amma’s rule. After her, it has slackened. A major reason
for this is the focus on incentive-based industrial investment, rather than
attracting real need-based investment. Hence focus will be on attracting
investors who will be establishing their units within a fixed time schedule
and start production, resulting in promised employment generation.
Such units can be incentivized by offering well infrastructure land, with
required electricity, drinking water, sewage treatment, communication
and good roads, at subsidized rates.
Industrial investments must be grouped as per categories and an IAS
official to be appointed. The official will act as a bridge between the
government and the investor. From ensuring that the compensation for
acquired lands is paid on time, to coordinating various approvals and
overcoming hurdles, the system will be revamped to enable that official
to handle all such responsibilities.
AMMK will ensure that every district will have at least one industrial
estate and a township linked to it. These estates will be established as
special investment zones.
9
Approval to start new industries in 60 days
As per Puratchithalaivi Amma’s Vision 2023, an environment friendly
Industrial Corridor was planned between Madurai and Tuticorin to attract new
industrial units and generate large scale employment in the southern districts.
Those keen to start new industrial units in Tamil Nadu and with the right
credentials will be given approvals under the Single Window scheme in sixty
days.
Foreign exchange - Special attention
Lot of business activities are taking place and factories are functioning in
places like Tiruppur, Ambur and Vaniyambadi in Tamil Nadu and these places
are earning a lot of foreign exchange. We will take all steps to upgrade basic
infrastructure facilities like good roads, uninterrupted power supply, safe
drinking water and health facilities and quality guest houses and hotels in
these places. We will not only upgrade the above mentioned facilities in these
places but also take steps to establish afresh the above mentioned facilities in
these places.
Export zones
Dedicated export zones will be created throughout Tamil Nadu where airports and ports are situated. For the export of goods produced in these areas a hassle free atmosphere will be created. Officials at the concerned zones will provide needed advice and assistance to the concerned manufacturers and farmers.
Strengthening of Ports
The role of ports in the overall growth of a country is tremendous. Ports
play an important role both in the exports and imports of a country. In Tamil
Nadu totally 8 ports are there and this includes Chennai, Tutocorin,
Nagapattinam, Kaattupalli and Kollachal. We will take all steps to upgrade the
cargo handling capacity of all these eight ports on par with the international
standards.
10
We will provide adequate lands for the expansion of ports. These lands
will be used not only for the requirement of concerned ports but also cater to
the needs of factories connected with the ports and for the creation of
industrial estates in that particular area. The concerned Port managements
themselves can grant permission and licenses for these factories and to that
extent powers will be relegated to these Ports.
These Ports and the adjacent cities which are having factories will be
linked with modern and quality roads and other required infrastructure and
these will be constantly monitored.
The AMMK assures the people of Kanniyakumari district that it will not
allow the proposed Enayam port project which will affect the livelihoods of
farmers and fishermen and displace the poor from their residential areas.
Coal procurement
Thermal power stations are the main source for power generation in
Tamil Nadu. Coal is the basic source material for thermal power and we have
to ensure the supply of coal not only in an uninterrupted manner but also
ensure adequate coal is available for thermal power stations. As of now we
have got facilities and infrastructure only to store coal for ten to fifteen days of
power generation.
Due to practical difficulties by importing coal and by the delay coused in
bringing coal from other states of India coal shortage is created which results
in thermal power stations stopping their power generation one by one every
month.
To ensure uninterrupted import of coal, with the help of the central
government a transparent and permanent coal import policy will be devised.
Likewise the practical difficulties in bringing coal from other states of the
country will also be eradicated. In addition to this the coal storage facility of
thermal power stations will be enhanced to minimum of thirty days to forty
five days and with this we will ensure an uninterrupted power generation at
thermal power stations.
11
Koodankulam nuclear plant
Several reports suggest that the already established nuclear plants at
Koodankulam are functioning very badly. The first plant has met with technical
fault more than 80 times in the past 6 years and the second plant got up with
technical faults many times in the past 4 years and all these times the power
generation was stopped. An enquiry by an independent authority will be
conducted for this sort of improper maintenance and lack of safety measures
on the functioning of the Koodankulam nuclear plant. AMMK will also raise its
voice for the dropping of expansion plan of Koodankulam plant.
Withdrawal of cases connected people welfare protests
Considering the hardships being faced by the people, who participated
in protests against Koodamkulam project, steps will be taken to
withdraw all cases against them without any conditions.
Similarly, cases against those who participated in protests against
Tuticorin Sterlite factory, Kadhiramangalam methane project, high
tension powerlines and GAIL pipeline projects will also be withdrawn.
Additional assembly seats
In the wake of the difficulties being faced in getting the required finance
from the Centre and implementation of schemes, a necessity has arisen to
increase the number of assembly and Lok Sabha seats in line with the increase
in population. AMMK believes this will ensure efficient implementation of
schemes and enable members of the public to reach out their elected
representatives faster. Hence the party will undertake steps to ensure one
assembly seat for a population of up to two lakh people.
Bringing back Legislative Council
Steps will be taken to bring back the Legislative Council, comprising
experts and people of stature, to enable them to offer their advise for the
government to function better and strengthen democracy further in Tamil
Nadu.
12
Creation of new panchayats
AMMK will strive to divide large panchayats and create smaller
panchayats for better administration of villages.
Better medical care for ordinary people
It is the basic right of every individual to get quality healthcare. Even
though Tamil Nadu is in the forefront of quality healthcare and is the capital of
medical tourism, realizing that such healthcare remains a distant dream for the
poor and common people, AMMK will take steps as a major policy initiative.
The party is firm that the healthcare that is available for the rich should be
made available for the poor too and within their own districts.
Schemes will be implemented to ensure that basic health facilities will
be made available within a radius of every three km.
Necessary changes will be introduced in the existing Chief Minister’s
Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme to avail treatment for pandemics like
Corona too.
Separate specialty hospitals for conducting heart surgeries, child care
and for treating cancer will be established near prominent towns and cities of
Tamil Nadu.
Welfare of farmers
Realizing the fact that agriculture is not a job, but a way of life, AMMK
aims to create the right environment so that every farmer in Tamil Nadu can
proudly proclaim himself as a farmer. For that, one has to ensure cost of
production plus 50% as the MSP. The party’s policy is to ensure that even that
price should be determined by the farmers, who toil in the soil, and the
required environment will be created. AMMK vows to implement an
Integrated Agriculture Scheme across Tamil Nadu to give priority to farmers
and farming.
13
With a long term vision, growing of sandalwood and Agarwood trees in
private patta lands will be encouraged. This will pave way for economic
development in villages in next few years. This can be implemented
successfully by involving school children in the initiative. It will also help their
future.
AMMK will not allow any project like hydrocarbon, methane and ethane
that will destroy agriculture to be established in Tamil Nadu. To ensure that,
AMMK vows to always stand with the farmers. In line with AMMK general
secretary TTV Dhinakaran’s words – “Even if diamonds are available, we will
shun them. We want only agriculture” – to preserve Tamil Nadu’s ‘Rice Bowl’
Cauvery Delta – the party is firm that the ‘Protected Agriculture Zone’
notification does not remain just on paper, but implemented on the ground.
Government will deliver fertilizers and farm inputs at the doorsteps of
the farmers at subsidized rates.
Paddy to be procured from the fields to avoid the struggles of farmers at
present in selling their produce.
The party will ensure fixing MSP for paddy up to Rs 3,000 per quintal and
Rs 4,000 per tonne for sugarcane. It will also ensure the pending dues to
farmers from cooperative and private sugar mills are cleared forthwith
and future payments are assured to be paid in a time bound manner.
MSP will also be fixed for cereals, oil seeds, tea, banana, turmeric,
tapioca and chillies.
Farmers to get pump set electricity connection in 60 days from the date
of application.
Free power will continue for farmers.
Steps will be taken to construct 100 check dams, across rivers, wherever
needed.
Besides establishing an organic agriculture university and research
centre, to be named after organic farming proponent Nammazhvar,
steps will be taken to encourage farmers to adopt organic farming
practices.
14
Use of genetically modified seeds, artificial fertilizers and pesticides will
be reduced in a phased manner. Use of natural manure and fertilizers to
be encouraged and measures to increase their production and to tap
export opportunities will be undertaken. A special scheme to make Tamil
Nadu to totally adopt organic farming will be implemented within 10
year.
A law to safeguard ground water will be enacted.
A movement to grow palmyra trees on the banks of rivers, lakes, canals
and ponds will be promoted by joining hands with voluntary
organizations and members of the public.
Farming and horticulture activities to be included under the 100-day job
guarantee scheme. It will be ensured that the wages fixed under the
scheme reaches the beneficiaries without any room for pilferage.
Government will encourage production of jaggery and brown sugar
made from palmyra trees. It will also procure them to be sold through
public distribution shops.
Additional funds will be allocated to encourage growing herbs and
medicinal plants, besides establishing connected industrial units and
facilitate export of those products.
In order to enable farmers to directly benefit, government will initiate
steps to promote mobile farmer units. Steps will be taken to directly
procure vegetables from the farmers for use in hostels of government
school students and Amma Canteens. While ensuring availability of
quality vegetables for these institutions, the move also helps farmers to
get better price realization.
Crop insurance schemes are already in place to prevent losses to farmers
due to natural disasters. But there are practical difficulties in
implementing it. Farmers feel the problem is due to the decision to
permit private players into this scheme.
Steps will be taken to ease out private insurance companies from this and
to implement it through Agriculture Insurance Corporation of India. Special
15
offices will be made operational to enable farmers to get their insurance
payments in a short time and in their own districts.
Water Management
Geographically, Tamil Nadu was shortchanged for availability of water.
Hence the dependency on other states to meet its water requirements.
At the same time, AMMK thinks it is foremost important to reclaim
rivers, canals and drains from further destruction. Priority will be given to
construct check dams, maintaining water bodies and creating new water
sources. A separate department for Irrigation will be created and the party
vows to ensure these are implemented on a priority basis. Ensuring steps to
implement Amma’s dream project – rainwater harvesting – awareness about
water management among the public will be undertaken. An exclusive water
policy for Tamil Nadu will be created and it will be part of AMMK’s core focus
areas.
Linking of Rivers
Despite a tribunal award, Karnataka is not supplying the needed
quantum of water from Cauvery to Tamil Nadu. At Mullaiperiyar also we
continue to face problems. The rulers at the Centre are also watching the show
with glee with the help of the betrayers. In such a scenario, we will take
definite efforts to link the Godavari, Krishna and Cauvery Rivers of the
Southern States.
If any problems arise in getting the needed funding from the Central
government, the AMMK will approach the World Bank and other international
Monetary Fora for securing Funds and complete the plan.
Likewise, priority will be given to link the smaller rivers in the State.
Efforts will be taken to link the Tamirabarani - Karumeniaaru - Nambiaaru as
well as the linking of six rivers Cauvery, Agniaaru, Thenvallaru, Manimuthaaru,
Vaigai, and Gundaaru Scheme called, Cauvery – Vaigai – Gundaaru linking
Project would be swiftly taken up for completion of the project.
If the Atthikadavu - Avinashi Scheme for which the foundation stone was
laid late, is to be really beneficial the inflow from the Bhavanisagar dam has to
16
be raised. For this, the Paandiaaru - Punnambula plan - the dream child of the
Western Zone farmers - will be taken up for execution.
Cauvery Management Board with Authority
It is the agricultural activity in the vicinity of wherever Cauvery flows
that forms the most important part of farming work in Tamil Nadu. For
agricultural activity to prosper Cauvery Water should reach the far end. To firm
this up Puratchi Thalaivi Amma saw to it that there was a gazette notification
for the interim award of the Cauvery Tribunal.
In continuation of this, Cauvery Management Board should have been
appointed. But even after the Supreme Court had so ordered, the Central
Government appointed the Cauvery Management Commission. Because of
this, without saying even a single word to Tamil Nadu, the Central Government
permitted Karnataka to prepare a design plan for building Mekedatu Dam
across the Cauvery. If such a dam is built the entire Delta area would become a
desert. This has enraged the farmers of Tamil Nadu.
The AMMK will take all efforts to prevent construction of Mekedatu to
assuage the agitated farmers and in times to come if any construction activity
takes place across the Cauvery river, that will be taken up only with the
unanimous consent of all the Cauvery riparian States.
At present the Cauvery Management Authority is an Authority without
any teeth. Hence action will be taken to form the Cauvery Management
Board. Till that time apart from appointing a full - time chief for this,
pressure will be exercised on the central government for implementing
the Award of the Tribunal in full and properly by giving it necessary
powers to do so.
We will also empower the Cauvery Management Authority to issue
necessary notification for receiving Cauvery Water by June month end
every year for short term Paddy crop.
Any steps against Tamil Nadu farmers by way of dam across Paalaru and
a second dam in Mullai Periyar will not be permitted in any situation.
17
Upliftment of Fallow - Land Linked to Farming
After identifying through permanent land deeds the private and
government held lands, the government held lands will be divided as fallow
land and land otherwise useful. The fallow land will be improved to the extent
possible for sowing rain expectant crops, fruit yielding trees, Tamarind, Neem
and Drumstick trees. Such retrieved lands will be offered to graduate youth
interested farming on a priority basis. Minimum offer will be five acres as per
set norms and conditions.
Cattle rearing
After categorising wastelands, the balance lands could be utilized to rear
cattle and goats, besides chicken with the same approach of undertaking farm
activities. Such land will be distributed on a priority basis to educated youth to
establish such farms. Any resultant income, which could accrue to the state on
account of implement this wasteland scheme, will be utilized for the
development of the respective villages.
To encourage Poultry farming and to introduce modernization, the state
government will increase the subsidy given for such farms from the present
25%. This category will be given priority under the wasteland development
project.
Steps will be taken to encourage rearing native breed of cattle and dogs and
encouraged with incentives to safeguard those breeds.
Welfare of government employees and teachers
It is utmost important to ensure that the government employees, the
teachers and healthcare professionals, who are the key keg in the running of
government machinery, are not forced to stage protests for any of their
demands. All their reasonable demands should be met on a priority basis. At
the same time, AMMK feels that there is need to educate and make them
aware and with their cooperation - on the need to change the way the
government service is rendered in tune with the times, the need to upgrade
skills for better teaching and the need for involved treatment of the patients.
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All vacant posts of government employees and teachers will be filled and
priority will be given to part time teachers, computer trainers, physical
education, music and art teachers while filling the existing vacant posts. The
old pension scheme will be implemented for government employees.
It is not wrong for the government employees and school teachers to
expect to stay close to their place of work. That is the reason why employees,
posted in remote villages and hill regions, refuse to report to work due to lack
of proper place of stay. Considering this issue, steps will be taken to construct
housing units for government employees in all panchayat unions.
Subsidized food canteens will be established in government campuses,
which employ not less than 100 employees. Preference to run these outlets
will be given women and youth self help groups.
Women's Welfare and Progress
Though women are making their mark and scaling heights in various
fields, their representation in politics is still limited. AMMK will work for
providing 33% reservation for women in Parliament and state legislatures.
The only yardstick for judging a country as to whether it is developed or
not is to see how much the women are respected in that country. Keeping this
in mind Puratchi Thalaivar M.G.R. and Puratchi Thalaivi Amma focussed their
attention on Women's Welfare and progress till their last breath. That self
same path the AMMK will be pursuing with regard to Women's Welfare.
From the time women reach puberty they undergo changes in their
physical and mental make-up. keeping this in mind girl students from
their 6th class onwards till their under graduate level will be subjected to
medical checkup in the their study campus itself. They will be given a
separate identity card with their medical data which will be
computerised.
This will enable a girl student who has been given an identity card with
her medical data in the sixth class can avail herself of medical
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consultation till she completes her degree course at any place or at any
college.
Girl students prosecuting their studies from the 6th class onwards till the
Post - graduate level will be provided free sanitary napkins. Distribution
of these free napkins would be done under the supervision of women
teachers without causing any embarrassment.
For making these napkins at least 10 centres under each panchayat
union will be involved and women self help groups will be given
necessary training at these centres.
In government hospitals specialist psychologists will be appointed.
Working women as also housewives without any age-bar could avail
themselves of such free counselling.
To ensure the welfare of girl children belonging to families below the
poverty line, an amount of Rs 50,000 will be put in fixed deposit in the
name of the first girl child at the time of her birth. Upon the birth of
second girl child in the same family, a similar amount of Rs 50,000 will be
deposited in her name, based on the submission of family planning
certificate by parents. When the girls turn 18, the amount could be
utilised either for their higher education or marriage.
Additional special leave every month for working women.
The financial aid scheme for women during pregnancy, which was
started during Puratchithalaivi Amma period but not being
implemented fully citing shortage of finance, will be implemented in full.
Under the Moovalur Ramamirtham scheme offering financial support for
women getting married – the cash support will be enhanced to Rs
50,000, from Rs 25,000 at present, besides the 8-gram gold ‘Thaali’ chain
for women who have studied up to Class 10. For women, who have
completed graduation or diploma, the cash support will be enhanced to
Rs One lakh from Rs 50,000 at present, besides the 8-gram gold ‘Thaali’
chain.
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Under the Dr Dharmambal widow rehabilitation scheme, the cash
support for widows getting remarried will be enhanced to Rs 50,000
from Rs 25,000 at present, besides the 4-gram gold ‘Thaali’ chain for
women who have studied up to Class 10. For women, who have
completed graduation or diploma, the cash support will be enhanced to
Rs One lakh from Rs 50,000 at present, besides the 4-gram gold ‘Thaali’
chain.
Subsidy for Gas Cylinders
There are about Two crore families in Tamil Nadu who have obtained
gas connections. In the context of the day by day increasing cost for gas
consumption, a monthly subsidy of Rs.100/- will be provided to the poor and
Middle-Class families by the Government of Tamil Nadu itself.
Welfare of transgender
Government will construct hostels for the transgender. It will announce
schemes and offer financial support to enable them to live an respectful life
like others. Based on the qualifications and skill sets, right opportunities will be
given to transgender in government employment.
Radiant Plan for New Livelihood
In 2005 Puratchi Thalaivi Amma started her dream plan of New
livelihood (Pudhu Vaazhvu). The organisers and consultants of the New
livelihood plan looked after and managed the Ten lakh self - help groups of
women. This was running very well till 2016 and became dormant thereafter.
New life will be given to the self-help groups suffering from lack of
funds.
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Women Self-Help Groups
During Puratchi Thalaivi Amma's time the women self-help groups were
functioning with a distinct identity and now they will be enabled to move
forward to the next stage. In the rural areas depending on local conditions
after identifying the productive capacity of the area, training will be given and
necessary financial help will also be provided for the self-help group women
for their enterprises.
In the rural areas opportunities will be provided to educated and
uneducated women's groups to engage themselves in farming related
occupations - particularly in oil seeds, bulk purchase of items for cooking oil
etc, and to have these items sold in their area. By this the women will have at
least minimum income and the public will have the benefit of natural cooking
oil at lower rates.
Opportunities also will be provided to women to form, Natural Medicinal
Plant and Cattle Farms etc.
Atleast 50% of the products sold by women's self-help groups will be
purchased in bulk by the government departments.
In the bigger villages in the rural areas weekly shandy will be held and
the government itself will make the necessary arrangements. This gives an
additional opportunity to the women's and youth self help groups to sell their
products.
Efforts will be taken to provide Amma Eateries at least in 5 villages in
each Panchayat Union. These eateries will be managed by the Women's and
Youth Self-help groups.
Women and youth self help groups (SHGs) will be given an interest free
loan of Rs One lakh.
Youth Welfare
Youth self help groups, comprising unemployed youngsters in villages,
will be formed just like the women self help groups. Besides offering them
skilled training, based on the requirements of the local demand, financial
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support too will be given to facilitate them to start new business enterprises.
Preference will given to start agro-based units by them.
The youth self help groups too will function under the guidance and
monitoring of the government’s Pudhu Vazhvu Project of the Rural
Development department. This will ensure the smooth functioning of women
and youth self help groups without any financial strain.
Young women and young men will be given loans, with a subsidy of Rs
one lakh, to encourage self-employment initiatives.
Youngsters with the right skill sets to shine in sports will be identified
and their participation in tournaments will be facilitated. The present rigid
rules will be altered to enable youngsters from rural villages too to easily
benefit under the scheme.
The age limit for all government jobs will be increased.
The infrastructure facilities of District Employment Offices will be
improved to enable them facilitate youngsters to get employed in private
sector too. One crore youngsters will be provided employment through this
initiative in five years.
Two-wheeler scheme for men
The two-wheeler scheme, announced by Puratchithalaivi Amma, will be
expanded to include young men and head of families. As in the case of women,
men up to the age of 45 years will be offered subsidy for buying a two-
wheeler. Preference will be given to those who are employed.
Amma Rural Bank
Complaints are frequently arising that the funds allotted to Panchayat
Unions wise for Women's Self-Help groups have been eroded because of
mismanagement and lack of control.
Taking this into consideration in all the Panchayat unions in Tamil Nadu
Banks, will be opened. Styled as AMMA RURAL BANK. This bank will meet
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the financial needs of the Women and Youth Self-Help groups and also give
proper advice about the starting of industries etc.
In the first phase each bank will be started with an initial capital of Rs.5
Crores with an IAS Officer heading the Bank. The Control will be exercised by a
committee comprised of officials from the Finance and Co-operative
departments.
Rural women and youth will be given small trade loan amounts from a
minimum of Rs.50,000 to a maximum of Rs.2 lakhs. The beneficiary will have to
pay 1/5th of the loan amount as advance. This loan benefit plan will also be
linked to the Amma Rural Bank and implemented accordingly.
Justice for women
Acts of crime against women and children will attract stringent
punishment. It will be ensured that the cases related to such crimes will be
investigated within the stipulated time and the accused punished.
Welfare of Children
These children face the danger of abduction, are made to beg or are
subjected to sexual exploitation and body organ theft. Such abducted children
are rescued and sent to social welfare centres. They are sent out after reaching
the age of 18 and there is no control on their future. The situation will be
changed and an integrated organisation will be formed to look after the future
of such children.
Welfare of Senior Citizens
In 1947 at the time of India's Independence the average life span of an
Indian was less than 30 years. Because of considerable progress this span has
reached 67 years. This is reflected in Tamil Nadu also and the number of Senior
Citizens has increased considerably.
Because of changing social norms, these people are getting isolated and
are made to seek old age homes distressingly enough. It is necessary to dispel
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their loneliness and also keep a watch on their personal hygiene. Keeping this
in mind, a panel of Doctors, Psychologists, Legal experts officials will be formed
to evolve a policy for upkeep of Senior Citizens.
Senior citizens will get 50% concession in state transport express buses as
offered to them by the Indian Railways.
Government old age homes will be established in every districts.
It is distressing that the Ex-gratia being paid to old age people has been
stopped for no particular reason. Action will be taken to make ex-gratia
payment to old age people reaching 60 years by adopting simple and easy
procedures.
The Rs.1,000 ex-gratia payment being made currently will be raised to
Rs.2000/- by removing all the hassles being faced by them. The amount will be
paid to the old age people at the places where they are residing.
Policy on Differently Abled Persons
Although the centre and state government have instituted several plans
for persons with disability, their main demands have not been fulfilled. Thus
section 15 in the Indian constitution regarding equality for all indians has
become meaningless. Hence to retrieve the Rights, suitable action will be taken
to initiate changes in sections 15 and 16 of the constitution.
The AMMK will take all efforts to bring into force the long time demand
of differently abled persons to reserve 3% in Local Self - Government
Bodies.
Efforts will be taken to have special schools with necessary
infrastructure in every Panchayat for imparting special education.
The families belonging to persons with disability will be declared as
being below poverty line and the government Welfare Schemes will
reach them on a priority basis without any pre condition.
It will be ensured that persons differently abled receive free medical
treatment at all government and private hospitals.
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A policy decision will be taken to introduce a Special Insurance Scheme
for differently abled persons and the government itself will pay the
premium.
A special committee will be evolved including persons with disability to
supervise the implementation of the Reservation of jobs for differently
abled persons in the state and central governments. A white paper will
also be issued yearly about such job allocations.
Action will be taken to ensure that differently abled persons are given
job opportunities in the Private Sector.
For Senior Citizens the banks offer higher interest for deposits. Banks
will be urged to pay interest likewise to persons with disability.
The differently abled persons buying for their personel use 2 or 4
wheeled vehicles will get tax concessions or complete exemption.
The monthly financial support for the physically challenged will be
increased to Rs 2,000 from the present Rs 1,500. For those who are
more severely challenged and need the help of an assistant, the financial
support to them will be increased to Rs 1,500 from the present Rs 1,000.
Minorities Welfare The rights of all the minorities, including Christians and Muslims, to
pursue their religious beliefs with freedom will be safeguarded.
WAKF Board assets will be streamlined and the income will be spent on
schemes to benefit Muslims. Steps will be taken to establish a medical college
on behalf of the WAKF Board.
Committees headed by Chief Justice Sachar and Chief Justice Ranganath
Misra were constituted to examine the social, economic, educational and
reservation status of Muslims. On the basis of the said committee's report a
special committee will be appointed by Tamil Nadu Government to examine
the prospects of making necessary changes for implementing the
recommendations for protecting the Rights of Muslims.
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The central government has not fully implemented the recommendation
of the two committees. In particular the recommendations of Chief Justice
Ranganath Misra Committee have no legal sanction. Hence AMMK will urge
the Central Government, to give necessary legal sanction for implementing the
recommendation of the two committees.
Constructive steps will be taken to raise by 5% the reservation for
Muslims in Tamil Nadu.
Currently while implementing the 3.5% reservation set for Muslims by
the Roster system lot of confusion prevails. To mitigate this a supervisory
committee composed of Muslim community members will be constituted.
After 1957 Waqf properties have not been accounted at all. Because of
this property worth several crores have been laundered. Hence as per Waqf
records, fresh auditing of the Waqf properties by revenue officials will be
initiated for retrieving the same. Through the Waqf board action will be taken
to start a Medical college for the benefit of the Muslim Community. Property
of Wakf Board would be retrieved and suitable places would be identified to
provide housing to poor Islamic people.
A fixed minimum salary will be provided to Imams and Assistant Imams
Steps will be taken to remove the practical difficulties caused to the
Muslims by the Compulsory Registration of Marriages Act.
Welfare of De-notified tribes
Around 68 communities who come under the classification of De-notified
Communities (DNC) have been demanding for long to be reclassified as De-
notified Tribes (DNT) to enhance their socio-economic status. AMMK
government will take steps to implement their demand.
Release of seven Tamil convicts and prisoners from Muslim
communities
In 2014 Puratchi Thalaivi Amma took determined steps to release seven
prisoners including Perarivalan languishing in jail for the last 30 years. When
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the Central Government approached the Supreme court against this decision
of Amma, the supreme court gave the judgement that the state government
itself could decide this. Consequent to this, a Resolution passed in Tamil Nadu
Assembly for releasing the convicts was sent to the Governor. But the
Governor is refusing to release the convicts. The AMMK will take efforts to get
the seven convicts released bringing to a close the inhuman delay. Likewise on
the occasion of MGR centenary celebrations, the Tamil Nadu government
released more than 1000 life convicts. But despite the fact that 41 Muslim
community convicts were eligible in every respect to be released, it was not
done by the Edappadi Palaniswami government. The AMMK will take suitable
steps to have these convicts released.
Police Welfare
AMMK is keen to bring in necessary changes for the welfare of the police
force, which is marked by long working hours and the resultant psychological
pressures, lack of remuneration on par with their hard work and a bad
reputation among the public has resulted in a negative perception about them.
It plans to increase the number of police personnel and police stations in tune
with the increasing population, regulating their working hours, a weekly off,
filling the vacant posts, reducing the duration for promotions, offer regular
training, ensuring due respect to the women police personnel and completely
removing the need for orderlies, which remains only on paper. It will endear to
reclaim the old reputation that Tamil Nadu police force is superior to the
Scotland Yard police. AMMK believes to usher in revamp right from changing
the colour of the police uniform.
The operations of the police force will be completely streamlined,
including computerizing the police records and complaints from the public, to
help the force to reclaim their reputation of being above Scotland Yard police.
Required steps will be taken to provide critical allowance considering
their responsibility of having to protect the lives of the public and their
properties on a round the clock basis.
Tamil Nadu police force employs the largest number of women in the
entire country. The appreciations for this goes to Puratchithalaivi Amma. But
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such a proud achievement has been marred by the increasing number of
suicidal deaths of the women police due to the huge workload and sexual
harassment, while on duty.
The women police are unable to prevent or counter the sexual
harassment moves at their workplaces. It is due to the present administrative
system. In order to provide a system, where the women police will be free to
file such complaints without fear, a separate division, to be headed by an IG
rank women police official, will be established.
Women police will not be deployed on VVIP convoy routes
The psychological pressures due to the huge workload for the police
men and women has resulted in increasing incidences of suicidal deaths. As a
permanent solution, a team of psychological counsellors will be established in
every district to offer counselling sessions for those affected. The need to seek
permission from higher authorities will be done away with.
Transport sector reforms
Due to huge debt and mismanagement Tamil Nadu government owned
transport corporations are running in huge losses. To minimize the debt
burden of transport corporations steps will be taken to properly register
thousands of Omni buses running daily in various places in the state and thus
will collect the tax dues from them and this money will be used to meet out
the financial problems of transport corporations and further strengthen their
services.
The present mini bus scheme will be expanded in new routes. While
issuing licenses it will be ensured that rural youth are assured of driver and
conductor jobs with minimum wages.
Railway Projects
The central government is always giving step motherly treatment for
implementing railway projects in Tamil Nadu as for the last 30 years no
projects for railway lines has been implemented. The AMMK will insist that the
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Dindigul - Sabarimala railway line project and the plans for having zonal office
of railways with Coimbatore as Head Quarters be takenup for implementation.
Apart from that the Rail Transport of Goods should also be taken up on war
footing.
All the important railway stations, particularly those in the district
capitals and railway junctions will be modernised to international standards.
Long distance express trains do not stop even at important city stations
enroute. This is the situation Throughout Tamil Nadu. In order to remedy this
district wise consultative meetings will be held and the peoples requirements
will be taken to consideration.
Metro rail service expansion and reduction of fares
Metro rail services are in Chennai nowadays. But the passenger fares are
so high that poor and middle class people cannot afford it. Hence steps will be
taken to cut down the fares so that all sections of people can travel in metro
rails.
Steps will be undertaken to expand the Metro rail service from Chennai
to Tambaram and up to Vandalur.
Metro rail services will be expanded to cities like Coimbatore, Tiruchy
and Madurai too.
Naming ECR after Puratchithalaivi Amma
Steps will be taken to rename the East Coast Road (ECR) from
Tiruvanmiyur to Kanyakumari after Puratchithalaivi Amma.
Firm in reclaiming Katchatheevu
Even though the fishing activities have been modernized, it has not
enhanced the lives of fishermen. Steps will be taken to improve their living
environment. There is also the need to change the lack of a secured
environment due to threat from neighbouring countries for their lives and
their catch. AMMK is firm that the atrocities against Tamil fishermen by the Sri
Lankan authorities have to be completely stopped. Puratchithalaivi Amma
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believed reclaiming Katchatheevu, which belonged to Tamil Nadu but given
away by evil forces, is the only permanent solution for this vexed problem and
AMMK too is not only firm on that, but also assures to take all steps towards
achieving that.
Without making appropriate amendments to the Constitution of India,
and without getting the sanction of parliament, the Indian Government gifted
katcha theevu, a part of India to Sri Lanka. Pointing this out Puratchi Thalaivi
Amma filed a case in the Supreme court in 2008. The AMMK will apply
appropriate pressure on this matter and also pursue the legal case further.
Welfare of fishermen
Tamil Nadu has got 1076 KM stretch of coastal area. 13 districts of Tamil
Nadu are coastal districts. Tamil Nadu has got sea fish wealth, inner land water
wealth and saltish water wealth Tamil Nadu stands second in the country in
the export of sea food.
So far Tamil Nadu is implementing several schemes for fishermen and
this includes financial assistance for fishermen during the fishing ban period,
diesel subsidy, etc. We will construct cold storage facilities at six big fishery
harbors and 36 Fish landing decks. With this fishermen can keep their catch for
few days and they can sell the same at an appropriate time and when the rates
are suitable for them. This will eliminate the role of brokers and fishermen can
get additional profits.
Training will be imparted for fishermen youth for swimming, deep sea
swimming and games in waves. Seashores in Pazhaverkadu, Kovalam, Marina
and Mamallapuram will be upgraded as spots for tourism sports.
We will ensure small loans at lower interests to fisheries women for
their profession.
Free aluminum baskets, ice boxes, weighing machines and umbrellas
will be given free of cost to men and women who are indulging in retail fish
trading.
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The financial assistance provided to the fishermen during the ‘fishing
ban’ period will be increased to Rs 5,000.
Steps will be taken to uplift the Fisheries University, named after
Puratchithalaivi Amma, in Nagapattinam. Right priority will be given to
students from the fishermen communities.
The 28 sub-groups of fishermen communities will be grouped together
and notified as ‘Bharathavar’ and ensure their continuance in the Most
Backward Class category.
Inland fisheries wealth
Tamil Nadu has got 74 big and small water tanks. In 53 water tanks are in
the control of fisheries department. We will take steps to breed quality fish
varieties in these places and encourage fisheries business.
By farming farm ponds saved rainwater can be utilised for farming and
cattle rearing etc. also these could be used for fish culture and fish farming.
Rafts can be used in lakes for fish rearing.
Women self help groups and youth self help groups can be given training
at these farms for gainful employment later. In these fish farms young ones of
fish called frys can be fed and reared.
Welfare of Weavers
There is a need to safeguard weaving and weavers just the way the
farming and farmers are being safeguarded. Within that, the need to retrieve
the fast decaying handloom sector is felt much more. AMMK believes in
enhancing the opportunities for handlooms by regulating the usage on a
priority basis.
The lives of weavers are in despair, even though they ensure
safeguarding the honour of humans by providing them the much needed
clothing. In order to appreciate their dedication and hardwork, free power
supply will be offered to all handloom weavers. Powerloom weavers will get
up to 1,000 units cost free power.
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Interest free loans will be offered to youngsters and youth groups keen
to get into weaving.
Weavers face several difficulties in procuring the required amount of
thread. Taking this into consideration, the state government will establish
procurement centres for threads and ensure its availability to the weavers at
low costs.
Steps will be taken to deliver long pending subsidy and rebate rates to
weavers which was pending for a long time.
A permanent policy will be devised to strengthen the weavers co
operative societies which are in bad shape nowadays and we will ensure its
smooth functioning permanently.
Textile will be made a chosen subject for vocational students in higher
secondary schools.
New Textile policy
Textile industry plays a major role in bringing foreign exchange to the country.
Tiruppur textile industry in Tamil Nadu is bringing several thousands of crore
foreign exchange to India every year. Due to demonetization and GST Tiruppur
textile industry is facing a slum now.
The US and European Countries (EU) have shifted their attention
towards Bangladesh and Vietnam to get textile items because in these two
countries the same is available in cheaper rates than from India. In Bangladesh
and Vietnam the wages of works are far below than Indian workers and that's
why the textiles have become cheaper. This is also one of the reasons for
Tiruppur's present crisis. In order to mitigate this problem AMMK will
pressurize the central government to bring in a new textile policy
It has been learnt that there exists a huge market for surgical and medical
textiles in several countries. Keeping this in mind steps will be taken to
encourage textile manufacturers to turn towards surgical and medical textiles
and AMMK will take all steps to pressurize the central government to ensure a
hassle free export infrastructure for this.
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Institute of Textile Technology in Tirupur
As Tirupur is a major hub of knitwear exports, an institute of textile
technology in the name of Tirupur Kumaran will be set up.
Labour Welfare
There are 17 welfare boards for the benefit of labourers from various
sectors including agriculture, construction, handloom, palmyra, pottery,
tailors, washermen and barbers, besides auto and taxi drivers. But these
boards have failed to provide the required relief at the right time to these
workers. These boards will revitalized through fresh infusement of funds to
pave way for them to take care of the basic needs of the workers of all these
sectors.
A subsidy of Rs 25,000 will be offered to auto drivers, who are keen to
buy their autorickshaws.
Steps will be taken to introduce robotic machines for scavenging works
and prevent the use of human labour anymore in such horrendous jobs.
Saltpan workers will be paid a financial relief of Rs 5,000 during the
monsoon period.
Group schemes will be worked out to revive the defunct small and
micro units. This will be undertaken on a priority basis, district-wise, to help
them get a fresh lease of life within six months of AMMK coming to power.
Unorganized workers
The 17 welfare boards will be revamped to ensure that they benefit the
workers of these unorganized sectors.
Procedures will be simplified to enable roadside vendors and pedestrian
vendors to avail interest free loan of up to Rs 25,000.
We will give Rs.4,000 as monthly assistance to workers belonging to
unorganized sector who crossed 60 years of age and this will be given to both
men and women.
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Rs.5,000 will be given to the family of an organized sector worker when
he or she dies for their last rites and this will be given to the respective family
within 5 hours of the news received about their death.
We will introduce an insurance policy for all workers belonging to
unorganized sector including construction workers. Rs.3 lakhs will be given to
the families of those workers who die due to accidents and Rs.2 lakhs to the
families of workers who meets natural death.
Welfare and protection of NLC workers and safety
Central government made attempts to sell the shares of Neyveli Lignite
Corporation (NLC) to private parties in 2006. At that time Puratchi Thalaivi
Amma with her courage and shrewdness defeated those moves and made
arrangements to buy Rs.500 crore worth shares by the Tamil Nadu government
and prevented the privatization of NLC. The AMMK will also follow the same
policy.
AMMK will also ensure a time bound agreement between the NLC
management and its workers on wage revision and ensure its implementation.
In spite of the Supreme Court's judgment the society workers' employment
was not made permanent. AMMK will take steps for society workers
employment is made permanent.
The NLC management has so far not fully utilized the lands which it had
acquired already and it had so far not paid the compensation fully to those
land owners. But the NLC management has now started to acquire fresh lands
for its expansion. Over 30 agricultural villages will be affected by this. AMMK
will oppose this tooth and nail and stop this move. The AMMK will also take
steps for the speedy delivery of already promised compensation and jobs to
those who gave their lands to the NLC in the past.
Welfare of call taxi drivers
Several private companies are running call taxi services. But there are
heart burning among drivers that their labor was exploited and the owners of
35
cars who attach their vehicles with the company feel that their payments were
not paid by the call taxi running companies.
To find a solution to the problems of all these three stake holders –
drivers, car owners, call taxi companies – a comprehensive dedicated policy for
call taxi sector will be devised and this will ensure justice to all those
concerned.
State transport undertakings
Measures will be taken to not only retrieve the state transport
undertakings from their huge losses, but also to modernize the fleet and
enhance the number of vehicles. The reasonable demands of the transport
workers will be fulfilled. Low cost taxi services will be provided by state
transport undertakings for the benefit of the poor and the middle class
segments. This will enable better opportunities for the existing taxi and van
drivers.
Protecting cracker industry
On the basis of a wrong information given by the Ministry of
Environment and Forests (MoEF) to the Supreme Court of India about the raw
materials used for the manufacturing of crackers the Supreme Court in
October 2018 had given a judgment which had brought the cracker industry of
Tamil Nadu to the brink of extinction. The opinion of the MoEF was not only
wrong but also practically an non-viable. AMMK will take all steps to change
this situation. AMMK will talk to officials of MoEF, owners of cracker industry
and workers of cracker industry and find out the correct and apt raw materials
for the manufacturing of crackers. AMMK will also ensure after due
deliberations with all the concerned stake holders that the raw materials are
easily available to one and also focus on alternative arrangements for the
subject keeping in mind all the scenarios in future and file a fresh petition in
the Supreme Court and thus get new orders from the Court and take steps to
protect cracker industry from extinction.
We will also brief the central government about the deadly impact of
Chinese crackers on Tamil Nadu's cracker industry and convince the central
36
government to take appropriate steps to completely ban the import of Chinese
crackers.
The Supreme Court's order that crackers shall be burst only for two
hours during the festival season had also came as a jolt to the cracker industry.
The AMMK will convince the Supreme Court in an appropriate manner that
bursting of crackers is a part and parcel of Tamil peoples' culture and get a
revised judgment which will be good news for both the cracker industry and
the Tamil people.
Justice without delays
Keeping in mind the fact that - justice delayed is justice denied – steps
will be taken to introduce robots using artificial intelligence technology to
reduce the huge pile of cases in courts. In the first phase, these will be
deployed to handle civil disputes. By adopting this method, which is already in
use in a few European countries and China, Tamil Nadu will become the first
state in India to introduce this, which will prevent prolonging of even ordinary
cases for years.
The longing of the people for over a century for Tamil becoming the
language for arguing cases in Madras High Court will be ensured.
AMMK will undertake steps to establish a Supreme Court Bench in
Chennai, not only for the benefit of Tamil Nadu but for all the southern states.
Ensuring revenues from mineral resources goes to the government
treasury
At present, private people, more than the government treasury or the
public, seem to majorly benefit from the revenue from mineral resources
across Tamil Nadu. The system will be completely revamped to ensure that the
total revenue from mineral resources goes directly to the government treasury
resulting in better welfare measures for the public. AMMK will ensure this.
Tamil Nadu’s total debt burden now stands at around Rs six lakh crore.
To mitigate this situation and to compensate the further financial losses due to
37
the closure of TASMAC shops we will take steps for the state government itself
exporting the rich minerals.
For example in Salem district there are places like Kanchamalai,
Servarayanmalai and in Nammakkal district places like Kollimalai and in
Tiruvannamalai district places like Gevanthi Vediappanmalai are possessing
world class iron ore and minerals. By exporting the above mentioned items
Tamil Nadu government can earn a lot of foreign exchange. Though there is a
need for private participation in these types of exports, we will ensure that
Tamil Nadu government's shares and control in both finance and
administration is maintained at 51 percentage in this business.
Due to the central government's guidelines and court judgments
extricating and exporting ore has been banned. Due to this employment has
been massively affected and the government's revenue has also been terribly
affected. The ban was due to the mistakes of individuals. We will take steps to
legally lift this ban and will also take steps to extricate costly minerals like
Illuminite, Carnet and export the same and thus increase employment and also
make ways for the growth of state government's revenue.
While extricating these minerals we will constitute a team of
environmentalists and experts and with their suggestions and approval we will
implement this scheme and thus ensure that the natural resources are not
affected.
Allocation of Tax Revenues
Though the Central Government has the grip on managing the country it
is the state government which is in day today contact with the people.
Education, Public Health, Local Administration and Social Welfare Schemes and
for all these basic needs, the money for them is by and large provided by the
State Government.
The greater part of the money for all these is provided by the state
government only from the revenue it collects from taxation. In this there is
38
great erosion from the tax collected by the State Government through the
Goods and Services tax imposed by the Central government recently.
When the G.S.T. was being billed it was stated that the Central
Government would duly compensate the state government for the financial
loss. But not only the loss but even the mutually agreed allocation of the
revenue yield was not paid to the state government in due time by the Central
government as per official statistics.
Steps will be taken to receive the revenue allocation from the central
government in due time and for that, appropriate changes will be made in the
administration of the G.S.T. council and its governance as well.
Petroleum products price fixing
Inflation affects the poor and middle class people. The main reason for
inflation is massive hike of petroleum prices. Even if crude oil price crashes at
the international market the prices of petroleum products are getting hiked in
India and this has become the norm for the past many years in India.
The decision to fix the prices of petroleum products on a daily basis had
been given to the oil companies is the main reason for this. AMMK will work
tirelessly to bring back the power of fixing the oil prices back to the central
government and will also work for setting up of a separate commission to
oversee the fixing of prices of petroleum products in a transparent manner and
in periodical intervals.
AMMK will take all necessary steps to bring the price of petrol and diesel
under GST. Until then, the state government will lower the taxes and reduce
the burden on the common man and make available petrol and diesel at lower
prices. Measures to increase the usage of alternate fuels and electric vehicles
will be undertaken.
Fixing of fee by toll plazas
A statistics say that highest number of toll plazas in India are in Tamil
Nadu. Modern roads which link cities play a major role in the economic
39
development of a country. Private companies which lay those roads are
allowed to collect toll charges for a fixed period.
AMMK will ensure that on the basis of the number of vehicles passing
through the concerned toll plazas each year the collection of toll by the
concerned company will be stopped and will also ensure that on the basis of
passing vehicles toll plaza charges will also be curtailed.
A review will be undertaken every year to analyse the toll plazas annual
income and extension of license period and unwanted toll plazas will be
permanently closed.
Measures to safeguard environment
Worldwide, safeguarding environment is being given utmost
importance. It is a matter of concern that in India, the focus on this is not
satisfactory. AMMK understands the need to focus on protecting environment
on the back of global warming and the future generations will not forgive us
for the slackness on our part in undertaking such measures now. There is a
need to undertake effective steps on this front by protecting the available
natural resources, forests, living beings, and to take steps to grow micro and
small forests, besides following the path set by Puratchithalaivi Amma and give
priority to grow more palmyra trees. Further, AMMK will firmly oppose
projects that destroy the nature including Neutrino and environmental disaster
projects like Sterlite and nuclear reactors.
Measures will be undertaken to safeguard River Cauvery, the longest to
flow in Tamil Nadu, by declaring both the sides of it as protected zone and
prevent setting up of any type of industries.
Estimating that only 10% of garbage generated in Tamil Nadu is
efficiently handled, AMMK expresses concern on the big challenges this will
pose in future. Understanding the serious threat it offers, all steps needed to
ensure proper disposal of garbage, adopting scientific means, will be ensured.
Saplings will be planted on both the sides of all types of roads across
Tamil Nadu. The scheme – ‘A Green Tamil Nadu in Five Years’ – will be
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implemented through local bodies. Growing of micro forests on wastelands,
with assistance from non-governmental organizations will be encouraged.
Western Ghats protection
All steps will be taken to protect Western Ghats which is the birth place
of all the rivers and Tamil Nadu's lifeline.
All steps will be taken for a safe discharge of effluents of Hindustan
Unilever factory. For this purpose international technologies will be used and
thus we will ensure a safe environment in the concerned area.
Protection of hill people
The safety living of hill people and people belonging to scheduled tribes
is equivalent to the preservation of natural resources. We will not allow the
dislocation of tribal people in the name of protection of natural resources
under any circumstances.
Adequate laws will be enacted for the continuous living of tribal people
in their respective areas. Financial assistance will be given to these hilly region
tribes to generate their own environmental friendly businesses.
Land Management
Despite the fact that lands have been registered and records
computerized disputes regarding ownership continue to rise. In order to
reduce such disputes and make usage of land meaningful, camps will be held in
the rural areas to identify the owners and provide them with permanent land
deeds. The system of giving pattas will be revised and protected as well.
A special scheme to approve and remove the practical difficulties in the
case of unapproved housing plots, with the objective of people’s welfare, will
be implemented.
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Equitable growth across Tamil Nadu
In order to ensure equitable growth of all regions across Tamil Nadu and
ensure their uniform development, besides preventing the need for people to
migrate to Chennai to fulfill their needs, AMMK understands the need to
undertake long term measures by dividing the state into several zones. Hence,
the focus should be to facilitate setting up of industries, which will not lead to
environmental degradation, and encourage establishing knowledge-based
industries, with the necessary infrastructure, across the state. Additional focus
should be given to southern districts, which have faced several years of
drought, to uplift the region.
Tamil Nadu will be divided into six zones, with an IAS official heading a
monitoring agency that will coordinate and ensure that the state and central
projects are equitably distributed and implemented across the state. Schemes
with a long term approach will be implemented across zones. Required
infrastructure will be developed to ensure establishment of industries, which
will not pose a threat to environment, and promoting knowledge-based
industries. Instead of expanding big cities and increasing the density of
population, decentralized approach should be adopted to ensure proper
spread of the development across the state.
Policy for Education
As per the Indian Constitution Education which was a State subject was
transferred to the Concurrent list by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Our
demand is that Education should form a part of the State list exclusively, taking
into consideration local history and social background for preparing text books
and study courses.
The idea that only if Education is in the concurrent list, everyone will get
a wholesome and proper education has not been fulfilled. The truth of this
strengthens our demand that education should be transferred to the State list.
The AMMK will do all it can to make the above transfer without impinging in
any way on the flow of finances to the state from the Central government.
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Compulsory education and free primary education is in practice
everywhere. In fulfilling the same there are practical problems. These
difficulties would be removed and compulsory free education will be provided
for all without any hassle.
In all government schools with the aim of providing one teacher for one
subject, initially having one teacher for one class was compulsorily followed. In
order to make the students proficient in speaking and writing English, apart
from learning English as an aid to their studies, specialist teachers will be
appointed to conduct English classes. This arrangement will be made on a
priority basis for rurally based students.
With the avowed principle – the nation’s future is decided in the
classrooms – in mind, there is need for the right educational institutions and a
syllabus that will not overburden the children. Measures will be undertaken to
drastically improve the quality of education so as to make the students and
their parents proud of studying in government schools and colleges, as the
case in developed nations. Education should be based on offering practical
knowledge, while discouraging the approach to memorize the syllabus. Steps
will be taken to ease the pressure on students, while at the same time, enable
them to appreciate the ‘life values’ and the opportunities that it offers by
including such lessons as part of the syllabus.
Improving Schools and Colleges
All schools in Tamil Nadu, particularly those in the rural areas will have
modernised class rooms, computers with training facilities, arrangements for
proper Physical Education, First Aid kit, Hygienic Toilets and protective
surrounding walls.
Whichever area has no private or government colleges, on the basis of
public demand, part time colleges will be started.
43
Students Welfare
We are painfully watching every year students who have completed
their 10th and 12th class studies, getting stranded, not knowing what to do
next.
To seek a permanent solution to this Students Welfare Commission will
be started, headed by an IAS officer. This commission will have branch offices
in every district capital and also establish head office in Chennai.
These Centers will provide information and guidance to students who
have passed their 10th and 12th class as well as students who have failed. The
guidance will pertain to the next course of action with regard to further
studies, opportunities for foreign study and pursuing a profession etc. Indeed
the commission will have experts who can guide the students to clear all their
doubts in these matters.
This apart, these centers will provide facilities with regard to attaining
proficiency in speaking English, personality development and computer
training etc. For these centers, part finance will be provided by the
government and particularly for students from the rural areas, financial help
will be sought from affluent persons and foreign based Indians and for that
necessary infra structure will be created for utilising the funds.
Also, training classes will be held for students to take part in
government competitive examinations. Experts will conduct the
necessary training.
Free bus pass will be given to students of government colleges and
government-aided colleges too.
To ensure that Rural area girls from poor families complete their higher
education without any hindrance, an assistance of Rs 10,000 per year would
be provided in two installments until they complete their undergraduate
course.
In future all loans for education will be given on the basis of Aadhar and
Pan Cards, simplifying the procedures for the same. Students receiving such
loans, need return them in easy instalments when they take up jobs in the
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government or organisation in the Private sector. It will be ensured that the
same system will be followed for successive students joining higher courses of
study.
Taking into consideration the growing use of websites and computers,
in all Arts, Science, Engineering, Medical, Agricultural Colleges and Polytechnics
Wi - fi facilities will be provided.
Welfare of Engineering Graduates
In Tamil Nadu thousands of engineering graduates emerge every year
from more than 500 engineering colleges they do not get any jobs either in the
government or in the bigger private sector companies. To say further
thousands of engineering graduates are getting stranded in their youth.
In order to rectify this situation suitable steps will be taken to provide
them with job opportunities and in order to encourage the rural industries,
rupees 25 lakhs will be provided as loan to integrated groups of engineering
graduates taking into consideration the development of the rural areas and
also enable the engineers to pursue a career.
Minimum Pay for Engineering Graduates
Every year thousands of Engineering Graduates emerge from colleges.
They are not able to get jobs easily and opportunities are also shrinking to
mitigate this problem, and to secure proper jobs for them a committee will be
formed invested with due authority to remedy the situation.
Engineering Graduates who join private companies here and there, get a
measly monthly pay of Rs.5000 to Rs.6000/- A policy decision would be taken
to fix a minimum pay packet for them.
They also join private engineering colleges as temporary lecturers on low
salary without any job protection. Action will be taken to secure for them
minimum dignified salary.
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Welfare of Polytechnic Students
There are more than four hundred polytechnics in Tamil Nadu and
thousands of students emerge from them after completing their courses.
Except for a thousand of them, others do not have any job.
To change such a situation at the very time, the students are studying,
they would be given job training with the help of technical experts from
Germany and Japan in handling computerized machinery and vehicle through
Virtual Reality, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning such techniques.
District wise centers for such training will be established. Also for students who
complete such training certificates from the National Talent search centre and
integrated organisations will be sought for securing jobs. By this arrangement
polytechnic students will be able to complete their studies without any fear
about lack of Job Opportunities.
Reservation in government jobs for those studied in
government schools
Steps will be taken to provide for reservation in government jobs for
students, who studied only in government schools. A committee to be
formed after AMMK government is formed will decide, within six months,
the percentage of such reservation.
Exemption from NEET
Puratchi Thalaivi Amma arranged for counseling for admission to
Medical College on the basis of marks obtained in the 12th examination,
thereby bringing cheer to the poor students from the rural areas whose dream
of becoming Doctors became a reality. The Central Government has smashed
the dream of the rural poor in Tamil Nadu by introducing the NEET (Entrance
Examination) for admission to Medical Colleges when this was introduced
Puratchi Thalaivi opposed it tooth and nail and had a bill passed in the
assembly for exempting Tamil Nadu from NEET. Action will be taken to revoke
NEET and admission to Medical Colleges would be based on the 12th class
46
marks as of old to fulfill the dreams of poor rural students. As there would be
interference from the Judiciary on this matter, AMMK will endeavour to pass
an Act in Parliment for permitting States, so desirous to revoke NEET.
Review of Improving Teacher Eligibility Test
The Teachers Recruitment Board conducts Eligibility test for teachers for
appointment in government schools. Lakhs of Graduates and Diploma holders
in education, are waiting for teacher posts. In order to fill the government
teachers posts the TET is being held. But there are a lot of confusions prevlent
in that and causes mental tension for the teachers.
Anyway a committee of experts will be formed as to whether such tests
are necessary and if found necessary to simplify the procedures for the same.
For this an expert committee will be appointed to examine this from all angles.
Amma Academy
Amma Academy, which will offer free training to students and
youngsters to appear for various competitive examinations including civil
services (IAS), central undertakings including Railways and TNPSC, will be
established in all the districts in memory of Puratchithalaivi Amma. These
academies will offer complete training to help more students from Tamil
Nadu to crack the Centre’s UPSC exams. The state government will offer all
assistance to those who travel to New Delhi to appear for the final
interviews. A facility to help students to stay and eat will be established.
Library development
National Libraries with modern amenities will be set up in cities like
Madurai, Trichirapalli, Coimbatore and Tirunelveli.
Rural libraries will be upgraded and modernised step by step. It will be
ensured that the required study material for students preparing for
competitive exams are available in all rural libraries.
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Steps will be taken to enable libraries to function from own buildings
across the state. The system to procure books for the government libraries will
be streamlined to prevent the role of agents and irregularities. Only those
books that are useful for youth, students and public will be procured and that
too after ensuring a transparent process is in place. Special promotions will be
undertaken by libraries to encourage reading habit among the public.
Steps will be taken to enable libraries to function from own buildings
across the state. The system to procure books for the government libraries will
be streamlined to prevent the role of agents and irregularities. Only those
books that are useful for youth, students and public will be procured and that
too after ensuring a transparent process is in place. Special promotions will be
undertaken by libraries to encourage reading habit among the public.
New Sports Policy
Though there are a lot of talented youth, sports in India has not been
able to secure a proper place. The selfishness and corrupt practices of the
higher level sports organisations has been pointed out by the Auditor General
on many occasions.
The AMMK will take appropriate steps to bring an end to corrupt
practices and encourage sports persons purely on the basis of talent without
taking into consideration their social status.
The infrastructure for the development of Sports Persons is mainly
urban based and they are also not fully equipped. Apart from improving them,
at the rural level also changes have to be made. At every Panchayat Union a
sports centre has be to established with sufficient training facilities to
encourage sports persons. Action will be taken to do so. It will also be ensured
that the facilities will also be provided when setting up Sports Centers.
Additional funds for Research & Development
In foreign countries, for Research and Development much money is
allotted. Whatever be the economic problem the allotment is not reduced by
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the developed countries. Such a situation should prevail in India and
particularly in Tamil Nadu. Also R&D amount will be increased every year and
efforts will be made to this effect. For this finance will be collected from the
Tamil Diaspora and a Fund will be established. All this will be done openly.
Research and development works will be encouraged in all streams,
including medicine, to help create a fool proof system to rescue children
falling in deep bore wells. Instead of searching for solutions after a disaster
has taken place and with the focus to undertake researches ahead, the
government will enhance the capabilities of the Tamil Nadu State Council for
Science and Technology to make it a hub for development new equipment.
Coordinating employment opportunities
AMMK feels it necessary to completely revamp the present district
employment offices, which merely exist, in tune with the latest trends and to
tap the emerging potential. The district employment offices will be geared up
to not only coordinate for government employment, but also to coordinate
employment opportunities in private sectors, besides providing training to
improve skills.
Rights of Tamil Nadu in Employment Opportunities
It is a matter of concern that increasingly persons from other states are
appointed in Tamil Nadu Government jobs. People from outside the State are
appointed in the general category as also in the Reserved Category. This makes
a mockery of the Tamil Nadu Government's Reservation Policy. This is because
of the fact that the government of Tamil Nadu itself has agreed to have such
outsiders appointed in Tamil Nadu government jobs. Whatever be the reasons
for this, this policy has worked against the Tamils.
Though the Indian Constitution states that a citizen of India can settle
anywhere in India, there is nothing wrong in the States urging that citizens of
their States should be given a major portion of appointment in jobs in their
respective state. Resolution to this effect was passed at the meeting of the
49
National Integration Council in Delhi in 1968. As a sequel to this the same
such recommendation was urged by the National Employees Commission in
1969. Consequently, States like Maharashtra, Karnataka and Gujarat have
enacted laws to the effect that a minimum of 85% of government jobs should
be for the citizens of their respective State. The AMMK accordingly will enact
a law on a similar basis to establish the rights of Tamils in Tamil Nadu.
Likewise it is to be regretted that more than 90% of North Indians are
appointed by the Railways for their jobs in Tamil Nadu. Anyway, the AMMK
will urge that a minimum of 80% of jobs in Central Government offices should
be provided for people from Tamil Nadu.
The AMMK will put a full stop to this situation by urging openness in all
such recruitments as well as equal opportunity for all.
Policy for Workers from States outside
Lakhs of workers from outside States are working in private companies,
particularly in Chennai, Tiruppur etc. Out state government has no statistics or
record of such workers. In the way that this does not affect the employment
opportunities of our own State subjects and in order to improve their living
standards and life style, with the co operation of the central government we
well set up a separate outfit to look after the interests of workers from outside
states. As Tamil Nadu's people are also working in outside. States, such an
outfit will be mutually beneficial.
House Loan for the Private Sector Employees
From all parts of Tamil Nadu youth, educated and uneducated come to
Chennai and join private companies on a low pay. They have to give a greater
part of their salary as house-rent.
In order to protect them from this financial burden, employees male and
female - earning not more than Rs.20,000 per month, 400sq feet flats in
storeyed houses would be provided to them by drawing of plots and the
50
construction will be without any profit motive. The persons to whom these
flats are allotted, will be given loans without interest for a period of 20 years.
Taking into consideration that thousands of young people are in need of
houses, the government held lands in the surrounding suburbs of Chennai will
be ear - marked and action will be taken to construct such housing complexes.
This plan starting from Chennai Metropolis will be extended to other
employment - opportunity cities like Tirupur, Coimbatore, Trichy, Hosur and as
a next step would be extended to district capitals.
Marriage Loan for Employees of Private Sector
The men and women employees working in the Private Sector have to
manage with their limited income to meet their monthly needs and undergo a
lot of mental tension. When they have to get married and manage their
wedding expenses.
To give them relief, loan amount of 2 lakhs, without interest, will be
provided to them, returnable in equal monthly instalments, over a period of 5
years.
Aadhar card, Bank Deposit Account, Pan card will be the basis for
extending marriage loans to persons and money will be recovered in due
instalments and assurance will given to young men and women for receiving
such benefits from the scheme.
Welfare of MNC Employees
To ensure the welfare of temporary and permanent employees of multi-
national companies(MNCs) in Tamil Nadu, steps would be taken to bring them
under the purview of Indian Employment and Labour Law.
Fresh lease of life to cooperative societies
Cooperative societies across sectors were thriving by supporting
farmers, weavers, fishermen and milk producers among others and enhance
51
their access to funds and facilities. But the intervention of evil forces have
ruined them completely now. AMMK considers it a must to approach it with a
policy to breathe fresh life into these cooperative societies. It is firm to take up
the required steps.
Welfare of Tamils Settled in Foreign Countries
A separate Department will be set up in Chennai to look after the
interests of the Tamils settled in foreign countries. These people working in
foreign countries earn foreign exchange but also face a lot of problems like the
untimely death of their relatives. The Department will help them in settling
their various problems.
Tamils, settled abroad require Education and Marriage certificates etc,
They also require certificates of proof from the office of External relations. The
Department will be useful in meeting such needs.
At present there are no proper schools for Tamil children in the Gulf
countries and America to learn through Tamil language. This Department will
take necessary steps with the participation of private players to set up learning
centres where teaching will be through the Tamil language.
In the Gulf countries and the countries of East Asia, including Malaysia
and Singapore, Tamils going for work in the countries as unorganised or
contract workers face lot of problems vide their salary or type of work they
perform. The Department will be helpful in resolving their problems.
The Department will also endeavour to give proper advice to overseas
Tamils who want to set up industries or invest in farming in Tamil Nadu. The
Department will also help in securing necessary government permits.
Sri Lankan Tamil Welfare
AMMK believes that the Sri Lankan Tamils, with whom people of Tamil
Nadu believe they have an umbilical chord relationship, being the original
residents of Sri Lanka, have all the rights to like others to be treated on par
with others. A situation needs to be created to ensure that they live in their
52
land, sustaining their own culture and the way of life. India’s external affairs
policy should be more fine tuned and more exclusive when it comes to Sri
Lanka. On the back of emerging threats from China and Pakistan for the Sri
Lankan Tamils, those who are already in India as refugees should be treated
with respect and well taken care of until normalcy returns in Sri Lanka. AMMK
believes that Tamil Nadu, as the motherland of Tamils, has a responsibility to
improve the facilities at these Sri Lankan Tamil refugee camps, which are
operating more as open jails, than relief camps.
The Sri Lankan Tamils welfare camps should have all the facilities and
to be upgraded, wherever needed, to help the refugees to stay as long they
desire in those camps.
Welfare of Cinema and Television Industry
Cinema and television are functioning as the desired options for
relaxation for people, after an hard day’s toil on work front. But the status of
the industry is not as healthy as it used to be, which the industry insiders
themselves are sure to agree. AMMK will extend its support to bring in unity in
this industry and pledged to solve their pending issues over taxation,
difficulties faced while release of new films and to prevent illegal screening of
films. Steps should also be taken to solve issues related to the television
industry, while at the same time educating them to provide only responsible
content and avoid thrusting unwanted content due to its ability to reach the
living rooms of the Tamil people.
Renewable Energy
Priority and importance will be given to generating power using
renewable sources like solar and wind energy. Tamil Nadu is the number one
state in India as for as solar power generation is concerned. But those owning
solar power plants are in deep pain and anguish. The main reasons for this are
the failure of the Tamil Nadu Electricity Board in procuring the solar power on
time and during those times the practical difficulties faced by private solar
53
plant owners facing while they were attempting to sell the solar power to
private players and other states. The tragic truth is though we have produced
more than our required solar power we were not able to sell the same to other
states without line losses and the main reason for this situation is lack of
strong power infrastructure. We will take all steps to strengthen the required
infrastructure in this regard and will ensure that the produced solar power is
utilized fully. Subsidy for roof top solar system for residential houses will be
increased. Government offices, government colleges, schools and other
government institutions and bodies will be encourage to tap and utilize solar
power.
Consecration of temples
Works to renovate all ancient temples in Tamil Nadu, without damaging
their ancient structures and characters, and perform consecration functions.
Besides recovering occupied temple lands, projects will be undertaken to
promote residential flats and commercial complexes wherever possible and
the rental incomes will be utilized for the maintenance and upkeep of those
temples. The issues that exist in the HR&CE department will be cleared and
undertaking of spiritual works will be ensured.
The remuneration and pension for Poojaris in village temples will be enhanced.
Tourism Development
Infrastructure and other developments will be the focus in general and
spiritual tourist destinations. Special schemes will be designed to attract more
tourists from other states of India and overseas visitors. This will also ensure
improving the lives of the local people in all these destinations.
Welfare of lawyers
Steps will be taken to increase the Tamil Nadu Lawyers Welfare Fund to
Rs 10 lakh from the present Rs Seven lakh. The monthly stipend for young
lawyers will be enhanced for the next five years and it will be ensured that all
54
those students, who studied in any of the law colleges in Tamil Nadu, receives
the stipend.
Advocates Academies will be established in all district court campuses to
train young advocates to appear for judicial examinations.
While ensuring enough funds to establish libraries, e-libraries and other
facilities in all recognized associations of lawyers, chambers for lawyers will be
constructed in all sub-courts across the state.
Welfare of journalists
Establishing housing facilities for journalists in all districts and increasing
the lump sum given to journalists, when they die while in service, to Rs Five
lakh will be undertaken. Besides increasing their pension, the practical
difficulties that exist in getting that will be sorted out. A welfare board for
journalists will be established to safeguard their salaries, medical insurance
and employment security.
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Happiest Tamil Nadu
AMMK will work towards ensuring people of Tamil Nadu to top the
happiest ranking, backed by their unique way of life and culture, even though
India has slipped several places among Happy Nations. Tamil Nadu’s ranking
will be on par with the Happiest Nation in the world. With the wholesome
support of the people of Tamil Nadu, AMMK vows to offer the golden rule for
the state and to extend its contribution for the whole nation.
AMMK will continue its journey as a people’s movement on the path laid
by Puratchithalaivi Amma and work to retain the pride of Tamil Nadu and
enhance the unique status of Tamil Nadu.
As a party that will work towards safeguarding the rights of Tamil Nadu,
help all sectors to develop and ensure the economic growth of every individual
in the state, AMMK seeks the support of the electorate of Tamil Nadu.
AMMK assures the people of Tamil Nadu that it will remain a political
force that will continue to raise its voice with courage, whenever there is a
threat to Tamil Nadu’s welfare and attempts to snatch the rights of its people
and prevent such adverse developments. Taking a pledge to remain in the
forefront in safeguarding the interests of Tamil Nadu, AMMK seeks the support
of the people of Tamil Nadu for its candidates and those from the alliance
parties in the forthcoming assembly election, 2021.
Progress of Tamil Nadu ! Prosperity of Tamils !