Tribal Welfare And Social Justice: The Enduring Contributions Of M. Karunanidhi’s Administration

Abstract

This study examines the policies and initiatives undertaken during M. Karunanidhi’s administration with regard to tribal welfare and social justice in Tamil Nadu. Grounded in the Dravidian ideological framework, Karunanidhi’s governance emphasized equity, inclusivity, and the dismantling of entrenched hierarchies. His administration advanced measures such as educational access, land rights, healthcare provision, and cultural recognition for tribal communities, while situating them within broader social justice reforms including reservations, poverty alleviation, and institutional safeguards. The paper highlights the enduring impact of these interventions, noting how they fostered pathways of mobility for marginalized groups and reinforced the principles of
social democracy in the state’s development model. By contextualizing Karunanidhi’s efforts within both the historical trajectory of Dravidian politics and the contemporary discourse on inclusive governance, the analysis underscores his lasting contribution to the empowerment of tribal communities and the deepening of social justice in Tamil Nadu.