Stalin unveils World Bank-funded projects for women, blue economy
Chennai: Tamil Nadu will soon launch three major projects worth $409.79 million in partnership with World Bank, chief minister M K Stalin announced on Tuesday in Taramani.
He was speaking after inaugurating the revamped Global Business Centre, which houses more than 1,500 employees and provides support services to 189 countries through more than 130 World Bank offices worldwide.
Among the upcoming initiatives is Women Employment and Security (WE-SAFE) project, which aims to bring more women into the workforce, particularly in high-growth, non-agricultural sectors. "We have allocated 1,185 crore over the next five years for this scheme," Stalin said. Two other initiatives in the pipeline include a project focused on sustainable marine resource management and the second phase of the Tamil Nadu Rural Rejuvenation Project.
Tracing TN's five-decade-long association with the World Bank, Stalin highlighted landmark projects - the Nutrition and Health Systems Projects, which helped make the state a national leader in maternal and child health. He also cited the success of the Vazhndhu Kaattuvom scheme, which benefited over 20 lakh rural families, created 1 lakh new enterprises, and generated 53,000 jobs for women.
"The World Bank's support for Tamil Nadu goes beyond mere loans—it reflects a shared commitment to sustainable, equitable, and lasting progress. Together, we are building a future where no one is left behind," said Stalin. Other transformative projects include the urban development project, road sector project, the TNIAMWARM irrigation initiative, and the coastal disaster risk mitigation programme. He also noted the $190 million loan to support urban housing for the economically weaker sections.
Calling for lower interest rates on development loans, Stalin urged the Bank to continue backing TN's vision of achieving a $1 trillion economy by 2030 through climate action, inclusive growth, and technological collaboration.
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