TN govt approves Rs 150 cr for rural development under 'Namukku Naame' scheme

IANS May 12, 2025 300 views

The Tamil Nadu government has launched an innovative rural development scheme called 'Namakku Naame' with a substantial budget of Rs 150 crore. Chief Minister M.K. Stalin's initiative focuses on community-driven infrastructure improvements in rural areas. Local residents will be actively involved in identifying and implementing development projects, primarily targeting schools, colleges, and community welfare centers. This approach aims to foster a sense of ownership and accelerate inclusive growth across the state's rural regions.

"We are investing in our communities to bridge development gaps" - Rural Development Department, Tamil Nadu
Chennai, May 12: The Tamil Nadu government, led by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, has granted approval for the implementation of the 'Namakku Naame Thittam' in rural areas for the current financial year, earmarking a sum of Rs 150 crore for its execution.

Key Points

1

Stalin approves comprehensive rural development initiative

2

Community-driven project focuses on infrastructure enhancement

3

Rs 150 crore allocated for rural welfare institutions

4

Scheme promotes grassroots participation and local empowerment

This move aims to bolster community-driven development by encouraging public participation in infrastructure and service improvements.

The state government has also issued comprehensive guidelines outlining the scope, procedures, and eligible institutions under the scheme.

The initiative will focus on upgrading and modernising facilities in government-run schools, colleges, and community welfare centres across rural Tamil Nadu.

The 'Namakku Naame' (translated as "We for Ourselves") scheme is rooted in the principle of participatory development.

Under this scheme, local communities are encouraged to identify critical infrastructure needs and contribute resources -- financial or otherwise -- alongside government funding to complete the proposed projects.

The allocation of Rs 150 crore is expected to significantly enhance rural infrastructure, with an emphasis on educational and welfare institutions.

The government hopes this will lead to improved learning environments, better service delivery at community centres, and an overall boost in rural quality of life.

Officials from the Department of Rural Development stated that the scheme will also foster a sense of ownership among residents and enhance accountability in the implementation of public projects.

Proposals under the scheme must be routed through local panchayats, and development works will be subject to strict monitoring and quality checks as outlined in the newly-issued guidelines.

The scheme is expected to be implemented in a phased manner, with district administrations instructed to prioritise projects based on local needs.

Preference will be given to institutions that demonstrate active community involvement and readiness to contribute to the development efforts.

With this renewed thrust, the Tamil Nadu government reiterates its commitment to inclusive growth and grassroots empowerment, bridging development gaps between urban and rural regions of the state.

Reader Comments

Here are 6 diverse user comments from an Indian perspective on this Tamil Nadu rural development scheme:
P
Priya K.
This is a fantastic initiative! đź‘Ź Rural Tamil Nadu needs more such participatory schemes where locals have a say in development. Hope the funds reach the intended beneficiaries without middlemen interference. The focus on schools is especially welcome - better infrastructure means better education for our future generations.
R
Ramesh V.
While the scheme sounds good on paper, I hope there's proper monitoring. In my village near Madurai, previous government funds were misused. The panchayat system needs more transparency. Still, if implemented well, â‚ą150 crore can make real difference in rural TN.
S
Saranya M.
As someone from a small town, I appreciate the 'We for Ourselves' approach. Too often, development projects are decided in Chennai without understanding local needs. This scheme could be a model for other states too! The community contribution aspect will make people value the facilities more.
K
Karthik B.
Good move but â‚ą150 crore seems small for entire rural TN. Our neighboring states are investing much more in rural infra. The govt should consider increasing budget if first phase shows results. Also hope they include digital infrastructure - villages need good internet too!
A
Anitha P.
My cousin teaches in a village school near Coimbatore. The buildings are in terrible condition - leaking roofs, no proper toilets. This scheme gives me hope! 🙏 The community participation aspect is smart - when people invest their own money/time, they'll ensure quality work.
V
Vijay S.
The guidelines mention strict quality checks - this is crucial. Many rural projects fail because contractors use substandard materials. Hope they involve local engineering colleges for technical supervision. Also, the scheme should track long-term maintenance, not just construction.

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Tags:
Tamil Nadu Rural Development M.K. Stalin Namakku Naame Scheme Rural Infrastructure Community Participation