The Dravidian model government, which has set an ambitious goal of transforming the state into a $1 trillion economy by 2030, seems to face challenges in managing basic financial responsibilities such as paying university staff and professors on time. Recently, employees at the University of Madras staged a sit-in protest due to a three-day delay in receiving their monthly salaries.
Higher Education Secretary C. Samayamoorthi announced that staff salaries would be disbursed by 3 June 2025. The protest, which began on 30 May at the university’s centenary building, continued into the following week.
Under normal circumstances, salaries are issued at the end of each month. However, the absence of a Vice-Chancellor and significant budget reductions by the Finance Department earlier this year contributed to the delay.
Samayamoorthi noted that efforts are underway to stabilize the university’s finances. One proposed solution involves increasing student intake in departments that currently enroll very few students.
Addressing the necessity of budget cuts, he explained that while the government has fulfilled its funding obligations and pending dues are expected, expenditures must be carefully managed. Although funds were allocated for certain purchases, the administration decided to hold off to prioritize essential spending. He added that streamlining operations could help further reduce financial strain.
(With inputs from The Hindu)
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