In an exclusive interaction with CNBC-TV18, Rajaa said the new phase of the Dravidian Model will focus on research, product development, and intellectual property creation, as it’s the next leap after the state cemented its dominance in manufacturing and services. “Dravidian Model 2.0 will be about R&D and creating a Product Nation. Tamil Nadu has conquered manufacturing—we’ve mastered it—but now it’s time to move up the value chain,” he said.
Rajaa, who has emerged as one of the state’s most vocal champions of industrial reform, underlined that Tamil Nadu’s biggest strength lies in its political stability and policy continuity. “Elections may be unpredictable, but for industry, it doesn’t matter who’s in power. We have policy continuity in Tamil Nadu. That’s something we’re proud of, irrespective of which political party governs, policies continue,” he said, adding that it’s a legacy of an empowered and educated electorate.
“We started educating people back in the 1920s. We’ve empowered our population to question political leadership. Every leader in Tamil Nadu knows they’ll be held accountable if they go wrong. So, we all work with the people’s interest in mind, creating jobs for the educated youth of Tamil Nadu. We know that industry is key to good employment, and that’s our focus,” he added.
Reflecting on Dravidian Model 1.0, Rajaa highlighted the state’s success in transitioning from traditional sectors. “For instance, in auto, we were the Detroit of Asia, but we didn’t stop there. We evolved into EVs, ensuring a smooth transition with timely policy support. Now we’re number one in EVs.”
He added that the next decade will be about R&D, product innovation, and intellectual leadership. “We’re building the Tamil Nadu of tomorrow, one that doesn’t just make products for the world, but creates them.”
