Follow TNM’s WhatsApp channel for news updates and story links.
The Tamil Nadu government has launched a new series of Regional Investment Conclaves under the name ‘TN Rising’, aimed to attract investments beyond Chennai and to distribute industrial development in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. The first edition of the conclave is being held in Thoothukudi district, the port city on the state’s southern coast.
Announcing the initiative, Tamil Nadu Industries Minister Dr TRB Rajaa said, “Tamil Nadu’s social and industrial infrastructure is so strong that you could close your eyes and place your finger anywhere on the map and find a place ready for industry. TN Rising will take investors to these emerging hubs and show them what is possible.”
The initiative is part of the state’s push for more equitable economic development by utilising the potential of smaller districts. Thoothukudi, with its strong port infrastructure and renewable energy resources, was chosen for the inaugural edition. Vietnamese EV manufacturer VinFast announced a major investment to set up an integrated electric vehicle production facility there at Rs 16,000 crore.
The conclave in Thoothukudi is expected to bring together global investors, policymakers, industry leaders, and academic institutions. The event will include new investment announcements, Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signings, and discussions on green energy, electronics manufacturing, port-led development, and skilling.
“These conclaves will be platforms where local aspirations meet global capital, where investors see firsthand the talent, infrastructure and ambition that defines the Tamil Nadu growth story”, the minister said.
Future editions of TN Rising will be held in other high-potential regions including western, central, and northern Tamil Nadu, aligning with the state’s goal of becoming a USD 1 trillion economy.
The initiative is also seen as a platform to integrate local MSMEs into global supply chains and generate employment, particularly for youth and first-generation industrial workers.