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Key Points

CM Stalin honored former TN CM Kamaraj’s birth anniversary by praising his revolutionary Mid-Day Meal Scheme. He emphasized how the initiative laid the groundwork for universal education in Tamil Nadu. Stalin also took a swipe at critics who oppose welfare-based education policies. The state celebrates July 15 as Education Development Day in Kamaraj’s honor.

Key Points: Stalin Honors Kamaraj’s Mid-Day Meal Vision for Tamil Nadu Education

  • Stalin credits Kamaraj’s Mid-Day Meal Scheme for Tamil Nadu’s education success
  • Scheme boosted enrollment and reduced dropouts among underprivileged kids
  • CM slams critics questioning welfare-driven education policies
  • July 15 marked as Education Development Day in TN
2 min read

TN CM Stalin hails Kamaraj's vision, says Mid-Day Meals laid foundation for century of education

CM Stalin praises Kamaraj’s Mid-Day Meal Scheme as the foundation of Tamil Nadu’s education revolution, countering critics of welfare policies.

"“What was served in schools that day was not just a Mid-Day Meal; the scheme was the foundation of a century-long dream for education!” – M.K. Stalin"

Chennai, July 15

On the occasion of the birth anniversary of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K. Kamaraj, incumbent Chief Minister M.K. Stalin paid a heartfelt tribute, hailing the education reformer's pioneering efforts that transformed the state’s educational landscape.

In a post on social media platform X, CM Stalin emphasised that late Kamaraj’s decision to introduce the Mid-Day Meal Scheme in schools was not merely about providing food — it was the cornerstone of a long-term vision for universal education.

Referring to Kamaraj’s bold initiative, CM Stalin said, “What was served in schools that day was not just a Mid-Day Meal; the scheme was the foundation of a century-long dream for education!”

Taking a pointed dig at critics of welfare-driven education policies, CM Stalin added: “Fortunately, there were no self-proclaimed intellectuals back then asking, ‘Shouldn’t schools only provide education? Is this some kind of hotel to serve food?’ Because of that, look at the enormous benefits Tamil Nadu enjoys today!”

He concluded his post by saluting the legacy of Kamaraj and added, “Glory and respects to the great visionary Kamaraj, who opened the eyes of Tamil Nadu to the power of education!”

The Tamil Nadu government observes July 15, Kamaraj’s birth anniversary, as Education Development Day, celebrating his unparalleled contributions to making education accessible to all sections of society.

Kamaraj, often called the 'Father of Education' in Tamil Nadu, introduced transformative schemes such as free education, free uniforms, and the Mid-Day Meal Scheme, which drastically improved school enrollment rates and reduced dropout rates, especially among children from underprivileged backgrounds.

CM Stalin’s remarks come at a time when debates around the scope of welfare schemes in education continue to surface in national discourse.

His statement is both a tribute to Kamaraj’s enduring vision and a reaffirmation of the state’s commitment to inclusive education.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
While I appreciate Kamaraj's contributions, I wish current politicians would focus more on improving education quality rather than just celebrating past achievements. Our government schools still lack basic infrastructure in many places.
A
Arjun K
My grandfather used to tell stories about how Kamaraj would travel by train in third class to understand people's problems. That's the kind of leadership we need today! The mid-day meal scheme showed how welfare and education can go hand in hand.
S
Sarah B
As an education researcher, I find Tamil Nadu's model fascinating. The mid-day meal scheme increased enrollment by 30% in just 5 years! Other states should learn from this instead of reinventing the wheel. Well done CM Stalin for keeping this legacy alive.
K
Karthik V
Kamaraj was a true visionary! But I wonder if the current implementation matches his original vision. Many schools serve substandard meals now. The government should focus on quality control too. Still, hats off to the great man's foresight!
M
Meera T
Emotional to read this! My mother was among the first generation of girls in our village to attend school because of Kamaraj's schemes. Today she's a teacher herself. This is how you break the cycle of poverty! 🙏

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