TN Finance Minister urges youth to take active role in boosting state's economy

Chennai, Jul 12 (PTI) Tamil Nadu Finance Minister N Marie Wilson urged the youth to take an active role in boosting the state's economy and eradicating social evils, highlighting the government's commitment to a corruption-free administration and women's safety. Addressing a convocation gathering of a private institution on July 11, Wilson emphasised the visionary leadership of Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, noting that Tamil Nadu has established India's first dedicated Ministry for Artificial Intelligence (AI) to adapt to global technological shifts. "Under the leadership of Chief Minister Joseph Vijay, whose motto is 'all are equal by birth,' the government is focused on two primary goals: a corruption-free state and prioritising women's safety," the Minister said. He assured aspiring entrepreneurs among the graduates that they can start companies and acquire land through seamless online registrations without the need to pay bribes. Referring to a recent white paper on the state's finances, Wilson pointed out that every citizen currently bears a per capita debt burden of Rs 1,60,000. "Overcoming this and increasing the state's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is only possible through this generation. The Tamil Nadu government is welcoming your ideas," he added. During his address, the Minister administered a pledge to the graduating students against giving and receiving dowry, describing it as a "severe social evil" responsible for many deaths and family disputes in the state. He also urged the university to incorporate human value education into its curriculum. Wilson also advised students to reduce their mobile phone screen time and instead read biographies and autobiographies of great personalities. He cited boxing legend Muhammad Ali's triumph over racial discrimination as a prime example of overcoming adversity through sheer determination and self-belief. "If you absorb things like the Messi story, the Ronaldo story, and many things like this, and prepare yourselves, we don't know where we will be tomorrow, so we can be ready to face the battle," he added. The event was also attended by Tamil Nadu Minister for Public Works and Sports Development, Aadhav Arjuna. PTI JR JR ROH