Tamil Nadu's Debt Mountain: Rs 10.71 Lakh Crore by 2027, Free Schemes Continue

• Tamil Nadu's interim budget reveals public debt projected to hit Rs 10.71 lakh crore by 2026-27.
• Despite mounting debt, the government allocates significant funds for populist schemes like free bus travel for women and students.
• Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu attributes part of the debt to central government's technical booking issues and alleges 'step-motherly treatment' from the Centre.
• The budget allocates Rs 4,000 crore for 'Vidiyal Payanam' (free bus travel for women) and Rs 1,782 crore for student bus fares.
• Fiscal Deficit is expected to decrease to 3% of GSDP, indicating a move towards fiscal discipline amidst welfare commitments.