Minister S Rajesh Kumar Outlines Tourism Plans and Criticises Opposition Remarks

Tourism, Culture and Religious Endowments Minister S. Rajesh Kumar addressed the media in Tiruchy on Sunday after meeting district Congress leaders and workers, outlining upcoming infrastructure plans and criticising Tamil Nadu BJP president Nainar Nagenthran for making derogatory remarks against Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay.

Rajesh Kumar stated that political discourse must remain healthy and civilised, terming it a major mistake for a senior leader like Nagenthran to make degrading criticisms against the Chief Minister. The minister also took strong exception to comments made by Leader of the Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin describing the state administration as a "joker rule," remarking that DMK leaders ought to introspect regarding why their party had failed to come to power.

Addressing queries regarding the state's law-and-order situation, Rajesh Kumar asserted that the administration was maintaining peace effectively and that citizens across Tamil Nadu remained safe.

The minister also announced key policy matters regarding the Tourism Department, noting that its grant demand is scheduled for discussion in the state Legislative Assembly on August 19. Following the Assembly discussion, the state government will evaluate the tourism potential across all 38 revenue districts and present formal proposals to the Chief Minister for implementation.

Several initiatives are currently under consideration by the department. These include developing parks adjacent to dam sites, creating a river-linking tourism network, and installing restroom amenities for pilgrims visiting major spiritual centres such as Velankanni and Nagore.

Additionally, Rajesh Kumar revealed that work is actively under way to develop Mahabalipuram into an international-standard spiritual and tourism destination at an estimated budget of Rs 200 crore. The state government is also reviewing a proposal to introduce dedicated arrangements to facilitate visits to religious sites for senior citizens aged 60 and above.