Tamil Nadu's development since 1950 rests on a string of social reforms inspired by the Dravidian Movement.
- The DMK government under M. Karunanidhi abolished hand-rickshaws in 1973; West Bengal took three more decades to end the practice. Karunanidhi also nationalised transport.
- Tenant-friendly laws included the Tenancy Land Record Act, 1969, a 1973 law letting tenants buy up to five standard acres, and a 1970 amendment cutting the land ceiling from 30 to 15 standard acres.
- Under MGR, 1979 tenancy amendments capped rent at 25%; his Nutritious Meal Scheme reduced school dropouts, and he opened the way for private engineering colleges.
- Jayalalithaa raised reservation to 69%.