Rejecting criticism that the DMK government was neglecting development schemes at the expense of freebies, Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi said both social security schemes and socio-economic development schemes were being given equal priority.
In a statement here, he said the State government's efforts in the field of education and health was clearly reflected in the social indicators.
The dropout in primary schools came down from 3.81 per cent in 2005-06 to 1 per cent in 2009-10. In middle schools, it came down from 7.58 per cent to 1.79 per cent.
Mr. Karunanidhi said higher education had also witnessed substantial growth. The number of students entering colleges increased to over 6 lakh in 2010-11 from over 2 lakh in 2005-06 during the AIADMK regime.
The government started 12 arts and science colleges, 12 engineering colleges, and six medical colleges. This year alone, announcements were made for starting five arts and science colleges and five medical colleges.
“The DMK government has spent Rs.2,568 crore on education and health,” the Chief Minister said.
Explaining the steps taken by the DMK government to lay roads, implement irrigation and drinking water projects and improve transport facilities, Mr. Karunanidhi said the Metro Rail Project, Ramanathapuram combined drinking water project and Hogenakkal drinking water projects were some of the achievements of his government.
