Chennai, June 8 (IANS) AMMK General Secretary T.T.V. Dhinakaran on Monday questioned the Tamil Nadu government’s ability to retain major industrial investments after reports suggested that Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), which had earlier signed an MoU with the previous Tamil Nadu government for a Rs 29,000-crore project in Thoothukudi, has now entered into an agreement with the Andhra Pradesh government.
In a statement, Dhinakaran said the development was a matter of serious concern and raised questions about the state’s industrial policy and investment follow-up mechanisms.
He wondered how Tamil Nadu’s economy could grow if companies that had signed agreements with the state government later chose to invest in neighbouring states.
Referring to media reports, he said MDL had committed to a large-scale investment in Thoothukudi during the previous administration. However, reports that the company has now moved ahead with a project in Andhra Pradesh have triggered concerns about whether Tamil Nadu is doing enough to convert investment commitments into actual industrial projects.
Dhinakaran also took a swipe at the government, alleging that while social media platforms frequently showcase meetings between Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, the Industries Minister, and representatives of multinational corporations: there is little information available on whether those meetings have resulted in concrete agreements, investments, or employment generation.
He said the public was yet to receive a clear picture of how many of the announced investment proposals had translated into operational projects or created jobs for the state’s youth.
The AMMK leader noted that Tamil Nadu has traditionally been regarded as one of India’s most industrially advanced states, backed by strong infrastructure, manufacturing capabilities, and a skilled workforce.
He claimed that following the change in government, concerns have emerged over the state’s ability to compete effectively with neighbouring states in attracting and retaining investments.
According to him, there is growing concern among young people that valuable industrial opportunities and jobs could be lost if major companies continue to choose other states over Tamil Nadu.
Urging the government to take corrective measures, Dhinakaran called for greater focus on economic growth, industrial development, and employment generation.
He also appealed to the government to ensure that companies that have already signed MoUs with Tamil Nadu proceed with their planned projects in the state, and to actively attract fresh investments to strengthen the economy and create more jobs.
