Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay emphasized that NEET is not the only path to success,encouraging students and parents to look beyond the high-stakes exam and support children in pursuing their individual dreams.
Speaking at a grand felicitation event in Mahabalipuram, where he honored Class 10 and 12 toppers from 88 assembly constituencies, Vijay addressed both students and their families. He distributed certificates and cash prizes, using the occasion to deliver a broader message about education, democracy, and societal unity.
While applauding the academic achievements of students, Vijay emphasized that stress should not overwhelm them. “Academic success matters, but it’s not everything. Don’t allow stress to take over,” he told the young attendees.
Questioning the narrative that NEET is the only route to a successful future, Vijay said, “Is NEET the only thing in the world? The world is much, much bigger than NEET. There are many things beyond it in which you have to succeed. So, from now on, keep your mind strong. Learn to keep it democratic.” His remarks aimed to reassure students facing immense pressure over competitive exams.
“NEET மட்டும்தான் உலகமா? இந்த உலகம் ரொம்ப ரொம்ப பெருசு” – விஜய்#Vijay | #TVKStudentMeeting | #TVK | #VijayStudentMeeting #NEET2025 pic.twitter.com/RJefDZXXMO
— PuthiyathalaimuraiTV (@PTTVOnlineNews) May 30, 2025
He also spoke directly to parents, urging them to nurture their children’s aspirations with empathy and guidance rather than pushing them into narrow definitions of success.
Previously, Vijay had strongly voiced his opposition to the NEET examination, arguing that it unfairly impacts students from Tamil Nadu, particularly those from rural and underprivileged backgrounds. On 3 July 2024, while felicitating high-achieving Class 10 and 12 students, Vijay aligned with the DMK’s stance by criticizing NEET. Speaking at the event, the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief said, “If you look at this NEET, it is a fact that the students in our Tamil Nadu, especially the rural areas, where the poor, the backward, the most backward, and the lower class, are all affected.” Therefore, the exam discriminates against state students and should be eliminated.
#ThalapathyVIJAY’s full speech regarding NEET issue
#VijayFelicitatesStudents @actorvijay pic.twitter.com/GrPWAjJkyd
— Actor Vijay Fans (@Actor_Vijay) July 3, 2024
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