On May 10, 2026, S. Keerthana, a 29-year-old political newcomer from Virudhunagar district, Tamil Nadu, was sworn in as one of the youngest ministers in Chief Minister Vijay's inaugural cabinet. Her election as the first-ever woman MLA from the Sivakasi constituency, known as the 'Fireworks Capital of India,' ends a 70-year male-dominated political era. Keerthana, who previously worked as a political consultant, secured 68,809 votes, defeating Congress candidate G. Ashokan by 11,670 votes. Her victory signifies a broader acceptance of young, non-dynastic political figures in Tamil Nadu. In a post-election interview, she emphasized her ambition to spread her party's representation across India, a statement that sparked debate in a state where Hindi has historically faced opposition. Keerthana's appointment is not only a personal achievement but also a potential turning point in Tamil Nadu's political narrative.