Thiran Initiative is the latest move by the Tamil Nadu School Education Department to enhance students’ proficiency in English, Tamil, and mathematics. Announced in the Assembly by Minister for School Education Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi, the initiative aims to benefit students of Classes VI to VIII studying in government schools. With an investment of ₹19 crore, coaching will be provided during school hours to reach around 13 lakh students across the State.
The announcement also outlined a broader roadmap for educational reforms. Thirteen new primary schools will be constructed, while four primary schools, 14 middle schools, and 20 high schools will be upgraded to ensure better learning spaces for children. Alongside these infrastructural developments, ₹7 crore will be spent to revise the curriculum and update textbooks to keep pace with evolving academic needs.
Recognising the importance of skilled teachers, the department has planned training sessions for private school Tamil teachers and instructors from other boards, focusing on Tamil teaching methodologies. This programme, costing ₹4.9 lakh, is intended to improve the quality of Tamil language education across institutions. Similarly, ₹4.9 lakh will be used to conduct POCSO Act awareness training for teachers and non-teaching staff in private schools, ensuring a safer educational environment.
Skill development for educators is a major focus. Over 1.2 lakh teachers will undergo professional training at an estimated cost of ₹28 crore. This move is aimed at equipping teachers with modern pedagogical techniques and subject knowledge.
In a strong statement, Minister Poyyamozhi urged the Union government to release the pending funds under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan. “The State government is currently funding these initiatives, but the Centre continues to withhold our share,” he said, stressing the financial strain on the State’s resources.
Other key measures were also announced. Life skills and value education modules will be introduced across all grades, supported by ₹26 lakh. Children with disabilities will receive new play equipment, and their teachers will be specially trained, with ₹4 crore allocated for this cause. These efforts aim to make schools more inclusive and nurturing for all students.
Vocational training is another major component of the plan. Adult learners at literacy centres will be trained in practical skills like jewellery making and tailoring to enhance their livelihood opportunities through active community involvement. Furthermore, skill development training worth ₹13 crore will be provided to 12,000 vocational stream students through government Industrial Training Institutes and State skill centres.
To promote reading habits among students, a “reading challenge” and storytelling sessions will be introduced. A special summer camp called “Kalaisirpi” will also be organised for students who excel in Kalaithiruvizha cultural competitions, fostering creativity and extracurricular talents.
In a significant development for music students, the government announced that students from music schools who pass the education department’s language examinations will be issued certificates equivalent to Class 10 and 12 standards. This move opens up further academic and professional opportunities for young artists, enabling them to pursue higher education, apply for scholarships, or appear for competitive exams that require minimum academic qualifications. It also provides a sense of formal recognition to the years of rigorous training and dedication these students invest in their craft.
Through the Thiran Initiative and related educational reforms, Tamil Nadu is taking bold steps to build a future where every student has the skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed. By combining academic excellence with artistic and vocational training, the state envisions a more inclusive, dynamic, and empowered generation ready to face global challenges.
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