Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, on Aug.25, inaugurated key projects and reviewed public service initiatives. His focus was on modernising infrastructure for media and film, as well as enhancing government services for the public.
New Institute for Journalism
The Chief Minister inaugurated the new Chennai Institute of Journalism in Kotturpuram, a project announced in the 2025-26 budget. Built at a cost of ₹7.75 crore, the institute will offer a one-year Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism. The curriculum, taught in both Tamil and English, is designed to train young talent for print, broadcast, and digital media in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. Following the inauguration, CM Stalin interacted with the institute’s first batch of students. The event was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, Minister for Tamil Development and Information M.P. Saminathan, and other dignitaries.
MGR Film Studio Gets a Major Upgrade
CM Stalin also unveiled a fully renovated, air-conditioned film studio at the Tamil Nadu Government MGR Film and Television Training Institute. The ₹5.10 crore virtual inauguration marks a significant investment in providing state-of-the-art facilities for film students and the industry. The upgrade includes a modern, 17,517-square-foot shooting floor with dedicated makeup and costume rooms, as well as a mock courtroom and a prison set. Students now also receive a ₹1 lakh grant for their final short film projects.
Review of Public Grievance Helpline
In a move to ensure effective public service, CM Stalin visited and reviewed the Chief Minister’s Helpline Centre in Kotturpuram. The centre, active since April 2024, operates 16 hours a day with a staff of 120. The helpline receives approximately 13,000 calls daily. CM Stalin specifically inspected the handling of petitions under the ‘Ungaludan Stalin’ scheme, where the centre makes nearly 2,800 outbound calls daily to gather feedback from beneficiaries. He advised officials to communicate with the public kindly and to promptly forward their requests to the relevant departments. Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin also accompanied the Chief Minister during the inspection.
