List of Chief Ministers of Tamil Ndu From 1920 to 2024

Tamil Nadu, a state known for its rich political history, has witnessed dynamic leadership and significant changes in its governance since its formation. The Chief Minister (CM) of Tamil Nadu plays a crucial role as the head of the state government, shaping policies that impact the state’s socio-economic development. From 1920 to 2024, Tamil Nadu has seen several prominent leaders who have left a profound impact on the state’s political and social landscape.

Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu: Roles and Responsibilities

The Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu is appointed by the Governor and holds a term of five years, with re-election opportunities. The CM acts as the head of the state’s executive branch, overseeing the formulation and implementation of policies that impact millions of residents. The CM is responsible for key decisions in areas like healthcare, education, infrastructure, and welfare programs. Throughout the decades, Tamil Nadu’s political leadership has seen significant transitions, especially between the two dominant political parties: the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK).

Current Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu

The current Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu is M.K. Stalin. He has been serving as the Chief Minister since May 7, 2021. M.K. Stalin is the leader of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party and is the son of former Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi.

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List of Tamil Nadu Chief Ministers From 1920 to 2024

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Chief Ministers of Madras

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First Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu

The first Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu was A. Subbarayalu Reddiar. He served as the Chief Minister from April 1921 to July 1926. However, it’s important to note that the office of Chief Minister as it exists today was formally established in 1920 with the implementation of the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms in British India. Before that, the head of the Madras Presidency was known as the Premier or Prime Minister.

A. Subbarayalu Reddiar was succeeded by Raja of Panagal, who became the Chief Minister of Madras Presidency in July 1926. The terminology changed from “Chief Minister” to “Premier” during that period. Subsequently, the title was again changed to Chief Minister after India gained independence.

In the post-independence era, O. P. Ramaswamy Reddiar became the first Chief Minister of the Madras State (which later became Tamil Nadu) in 1952.

Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu Important Facts for UPSC

1. First Chief Minister

• A. Subbarayalu Reddiar was the first Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu (then called Madras Presidency) under the Government of India Act 1919.
• After the state was renamed Tamil Nadu in 1969, C. Rajagopalachari became the first Chief Minister under the modern system (1952-1954).

2. Longest-Serving Chief Minister

• M. Karunanidhi of the DMK holds the record for being the longest-serving Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, having held office for five terms spanning over 18 years (1969–1971, 1971–1976, 1989–1991, 1996–2001, 2006–2011).

3. Longest Tenure in Non-Consecutive Terms

• J. Jayalalithaa of the AIADMK served as Chief Minister for six non-consecutive terms, making her one of the most significant political figures in Tamil Nadu. Her total tenure lasted over 14 years.

4. First Woman Chief Minister

• Janaki Ramachandran, wife of M.G. Ramachandran (MGR), was the first woman Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. She briefly held office in 1988 after MGR’s death, making her tenure one of the shortest.

5. Role in Dravidian Movement

• C.N. Annadurai was the first Chief Minister from the Dravidian movement, marking a significant shift in Tamil Nadu politics. His tenure (1967–1969) laid the foundation for the dominance of the Dravidian parties like DMK and AIADMK.

6. M.G. Ramachandran (MGR)

• M.G. Ramachandran, the founder of the AIADMK, was a popular figure and Chief Minister for three terms (1977–1987). His leadership had a lasting impact on Tamil Nadu’s welfare schemes, particularly in health and education.

7. Karunanidhi’s Legacy

• M. Karunanidhi was not only a political leader but also a prolific writer, playwright, and champion of the Dravidian ideology. He played a key role in promoting the Tamil language and culture through his policies and cultural contributions.

8. Political Rivalries

• The state has witnessed intense political rivalry between DMK and AIADMK, particularly between Karunanidhi and Jayalalithaa, shaping the state’s politics for decades.

9. President’s Rule in Tamil Nadu

• Tamil Nadu has seen multiple instances of President’s Rule being imposed, the notable periods being from 1976-1977, 1980, 1988-1989, and 1991 due to political instability and conflicts between state and central governments.

10. Impact on Tamil Language and Identity

• Successive Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu, especially from the DMK and AIADMK, have emphasized the promotion of the Tamil language, opposing the imposition of Hindi and protecting Tamil cultural identity.

11. Current Chief Minister: M.K. Stalin

• M.K. Stalin, son of M. Karunanidhi, is the current Chief Minister (since 2021). He is continuing his father’s legacy and focuses on social justice, education, and welfare schemes.

12. AIADMK Split

• After the death of J. Jayalalithaa in 2016, the AIADMK saw internal divisions, leading to factions led by O. Panneerselvam and Edappadi K. Palaniswami.

13. Welfare Schemes

• Many Chief Ministers, particularly MGR, Karunanidhi, and Jayalalithaa, introduced pioneering welfare schemes like the Mid-Day Meal Scheme, free laptops, and Amma canteens.

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