Polity New Chief Minister Takes Charge in Tamil Nadu Context: C. Joseph Vijay, president of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. His elevation marks a major shift in Tamil Nadu’s bipolar Dravidian political system that had dominated the State since 1967. Formation of the Ministry Nine Cabinet Ministers were sworn in along with him. Eight Ministers, including one woman Minister, are first-time members of the Cabinet. The government is likely to become Tamil Nadu’s first coalition government. Historic Significance C. Joseph Vijay is the first person belonging to a minority Christian community to become Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu since Independence. Key Announcements and Decisions The Chief Minister signed three important files immediately after assuming office. A new scheme providing 200 units of free electricity was announced for domestic consumers whose bi-monthly consumption does not exceed 500 units. The scheme is expected to cost the State exchequer around ₹1,730 crore annually. The existing scheme of 100 units of free electricity will continue for households consuming above 500 units bi-monthly. Women’s Safety Measures The government announced the formation of an elite “Singa Penn Special Force” dedicated to women’s safety. The special force will operate through 65 police stations across 37 districts and nine cities. Anti-Narcotics Initiative An Anti-Narcotic Task Force was also created to combat offences related to illegal drugs and narcotics trafficking in the State.
