Blue Economy and Coastal Cooperation Highlighted in Vijay’s Southern Council Speech

During the 31st Southern Regional Council meeting in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay placed the blue economy at the centre of the south’s development agenda. He pointed out that Tamil Nadu boasts a 1,076‑kilometre coastline and urged neighboring states to collaborate on ports, coastal navigation, fisheries, marine industries, maritime services and tourism. Vijay stressed that a coordinated approach would unlock significant economic potential for the entire region. He also called for a unified stance against narcotics trafficking, proposing a “Drug‑Free South India” initiative that would involve intelligence sharing and strict enforcement against inter‑state drug and psychotropic substance smuggling, as well as tighter control over online prescription drug sales. On fiscal federalism, Vijay appealed to the next Finance Commission to balance need and performance, granting high‑performing states flexibility in GST rate setting. He urged the implementation of court orders and tribunal awards on river disputes, especially the Cauvery water directives and the safety and storage upgrades of the Mullaperiyar dam. Vijay reiterated his opposition to the NEET examination, demanding that admissions to medical, dental and AYUSH courses be based on Class 12 marks to protect students from rural and marginalized backgrounds. He concluded by affirming that strong states build a strong India and pledged Tamil Nadu’s cooperation in resolving any differences through dialogue, mutual respect and the rule of law.