DMK’s ‘jet engine’ governance will outpace double-engine model: Mano Thangaraj

In a conversation with The Hindu, Dairy Development Minister Mano Thangaraj, speaks on allegations of milk shortage against Aavin, demand raised by milk producers, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) into electoral politics, quarrying allegations in Kanniyakumari district, evolving political alliances and competing welfare promises.

Q:There has been continuous criticism against Aavin over an alleged milk shortage. Recently, Tamil Nadu Milk Producer’s Welfare Association has demanded to announce ₹12 per litre of milk as an incentive and to allocate ₹1,000 crore for the Milk and Dairy Development in the interim budget. What do you have to say about the criticism and the demand raised?

Ans:As far as supply is concerned, there are currently no disruptions in the milk supply chain, and even with help of spot acknowledgement and incentives for the milk’s quality, the milk’s average fat has increased from 3.9 to 4.2. Regarding the demand raised by the association, the current government has already released around ₹800 crore in three years towards the ₹3 per litre incentive. The amount is expected to reach ₹1,000 crores by the completion of the government’s current term. .

We have performed better than any other government, as most milk unions were earlier operating at a loss. Through various corrective measures, we have now made the majority of these unions profitable. These initiatives include the provision of cattle feed subsidies in Madurai in Coimbatore. In comparison, we believe we have done justice to the farmers. However, we also acknowledge the current incentive may not be sufficient in view of the rising production costs. This matter has been brought to the attention of the chief minister and their demand will be duly considered.

Q: With TVK having already entered electoral politics and assembly election in a few months away, there is an expectation that this could split votes, especially among youngsters. How do you view this?

Ans: First we need to assess whether such an entry would have any impact on DMK’s vote bank. We are in constant touch with our party cadres, and there are no indications of any shift or movement among them. The DMK’s traditional vote bank remains intact and is, in fact, expected to increase further with the welfare schemes implemented during the current tenure. In my opinion, TVK’s electoral politics will not affect the DMK’s vote bank.

Q: There have been continuous allegations against you, regarding the quarrying activities in Kanniyakumari district and transportation of minerals to Kerala. What would you like to say about the issue?

Ans: The truth is no one is permitted to carry out quarrying in the western ghats in Kanniyakumari. At present quarrying activities are happening in Velimalai hills, including areas such as Chithirankode and Chunkankadai. When I assumed office, there were 43 quarries operating in the district. Through continuous regulations and strict enforcement, the number has been brought down to just number four. It is important to note that quarries operating in Kanniyakumari district are instructed not to issue permits to transport minerals to Kerala. This can be verified by anyone. In case of violations, FIRs are registered against the driver, truck owner and quarry owner. The mineral-laden lorries currently passing through the district are from Tirunelveli and other districts. We do not have control over the issuance of permits for their transport to Kerala. However we strictly monitor overloading through check-post at Kaavalkinaru.

Q: BJP had again joined hands with AIADMK and formed the NDA alliance. How do you view this development in the current political scenario?

Ans: First of all they all need to be clear about their stand. Edappadi K Palaniswami has stated that a government will be formed under the leadership of AIADMK. However, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the state a few weeks ago, he said the NDA ‘double-engine’ government would be formed. The so-called double engine concept will not work in Tamil Nadu. In contrast, DMK functions like a ‘jet-engine’ delivering faster development. As far as the Kanniyakumari district is concerned, AIADMK is not a strong political party and the people of Kanniyakumari have felt very clearly that BJP is using religion only to gain votes.

Q:AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami has released the initial election manifesto which includes ₹2,000 monthly assistance for women under “Kula Vilakku” scheme and other promises. How will DMK’s manifesto differentiate itself from these promises without being pulled into a bidding war on freebies?

Ans: When we announced Rs 1,000 monthly assistance for women under “Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thogai”, they questioned our ability to implement it citing concerns about the state’s treasury, which they themselves had previously managed. Now making similar announcements, which shows they are accepting that the DMK has ensured sufficient funds in the treasury and has safeguarded the state’s finances.

Welfare schemes have become a common feature across the country and are announced for the benefit of the people. However, every welfare measure must also be backed by cautious financial planning. In this regard, DMK follows the best financial management practices, ensuring welfare initiatives are fiscally responsible and benefitting people.