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Time of India
6 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Kerala government concludes fourth anniversary celebrations with Progress Report release
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurates the valedictory function of the Kerala Government's fourth anniversary celebrations and releases the Progress Report highlighting four years of governance. The 'Ente Kerala m' exhibition and trade fair, organised as part of the Kerala Government's fourth anniversary celebrations, concluded in Thiruvananthapuram on 23 May. The state-level closing ceremony was inaugurated by chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan released the progress report of the second Pinarayi government by handing over to the Chief secretary Kerala, Dr A Jayathilak IAS Pinarayi Government's anniversary celebrations, which began on April 21 in Kasaragod, spanned all 14 districts of Kerala, with each district hosting exhibitions, public meetings, and cultural events as part of the program. Chief Secretary Dr A Jayathilak delivered the welcome address at the event, which was presided over by minister K. Rajan. Several ministers attended the function, including Roshy Augustine, K Krishnankutty, AK Saseendran, Ramachandran Kadannappally, KB Ganesh Kumar, V Sivankutty, GR Anil, V Abdurahiman, KN Balagopal, R Bindu, J Chinchu Rani, OR Kelu, PA Mohamed Riyas, P Prasad, P Rajeev, MB Rajesh, Saji Cherian, VN Vasavan, and Veena George. Members of Parliament John Brittas and AA Rahim, as well as MLAs Antony Raju, Kadakampally Surendran, OS Ambika, K Ansalan, CK Hareendran, V Joy, DK Murali, VK Prasanth, V Sasi, IB Satheesh, and G Stephen also participated in the event. Other dignitaries included Mayor Arya Rajendran, District Panchayat President D Suresh Kumar, District Collector Anu Kumari, and I&PRD Secretary S Harikishore. The event marked a grand conclusion to a month-long statewide celebration of the government's achievements and public outreach initiatives. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Tras adelgazar, Kevin James está delgadísimo y parece un modelo Paperela Undo Youtube video: - . The chief minister stated basis in the Progress Report that the government has achieved 100 percent success in development, declaring that it is moving forward with inclusive growth and social justice. The 326-page report outlines the progress made in fulfilling the 900 promises stated in the election manifest. . . New Kerala is not a concept, but something to be realized" – Chief Minister Youtube video: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that New Kerala is not just a concept to be imagined but something to be made a reality in the present times. He was speaking at a district-level meeting held in Thiruvananthapuram as part of the Kerala Government's fourth anniversary celebrations. The government is now entering its tenth year. During this period, some have tried to present a different picture by hiding the truth. There is a narrative that development activities are hindered due to economic crises. However, those who observe societal changes understand that this is not the case. The government presents an annual progress report with the awareness that people need to know the facts, the chief minister said. Kerala recorded a growth of 72.84 percent in its Gross State Domestic Product for the year 2023-2024. Tax revenue, which was ₹47,000 crore three years ago, has now increased to ₹81,000 crore. The gap between public debt and domestic production is lower than in previous years. There has been significant progress in the startup sector. Kerala has become one of the most important hubs for startups. While there were 640 startups in 2016, the number has now risen to 6,300. Investments in the state's startups amount to ₹5,800 crore. The government aims to increase this number to 15,000 startups by 2026, which will create over one lakh jobs. Kerala has achieved many accomplishments that the country can be proud of. The state has transformed into a modern knowledge production centre . Along with the Digital Science Park, projects to establish three more science parks, each with an investment of ₹200 crore, are underway. Efforts are ongoing to increase the number of companies and employees in IT parks. Kerala's contributions include the country's first Digital University, Digital Science Park, Graphene Innovation Centre, Kochi Water Metro, and the Virology Institute in Thiruvananthapuram. Preparations are also underway for the innovative Ayurvedic Research Institute, Geno Data Centre, and Medical Technology Consortium, among others. Kerala was behind in attracting industrial investments earlier. Since the Left government came to power, legal and regulatory changes have created an industry-friendly environment. This also changed the mindset of people. Many enterprises have started, creating new employment opportunities. Kerala is a state with low poverty levels. Strengthening the public distribution system has yielded great benefits, with around 4.25 lakh priority ration cards made available. On November 1, Kerala will be declared the first state in India without extreme poverty. Kerala has achieved the number one position in many areas nationally. It has also become a state free from communal conflicts and riots. The government has increased welfare pension amounts, benefiting 60 lakh people. Under the Life Mission scheme, more than 4.5 lakh houses have been provided. Over four lakh land title deeds have been distributed, and steps are being taken to expedite further distributions. The Ardram Mission has brought significant improvements in healthcare. Public education has also improved considerably. Kerala has three universities ranked in the top twelve nationally in higher education. Agricultural growth reached 4.64 percent. The Chief Minister said everyone should appreciate the development of the state and acknowledged the progress and positive changes in all sectors. V. Sivankutty, Minister for General Education and Labour, who presided over the event, said that many projects once considered impossible have been successfully implemented by the people's government, and this is history in the making. The event was attended by GR Anil, Minister for Food Civil Supplies; Ramachandran Kadannappally, Minister for Registration, Archaeology and Archives; A.A. Rahim, Member of Parliament; Dr. V.K. Ramachandran, Vice-Chairman of the Planning Board; Mayor Arya Rajendran; MLAs Kadakampally Surendran, Antony Raju, CK Hareendran, VK Prashanth, V Sasi, G Stephen, OS Ambika, DK Murali, V Joy, K Ansalan; District Collector Anukumari; prominent figures from social, political, cultural, and industrial sectors; experts from various fields; beneficiaries of various schemes; and officials. Disclaimer - The above content is non-editorial, and TIL hereby disclaims any and all warranties, expressed or implied, relating to it, and does not guarantee, vouch for or necessarily endorse any of the content. Stay informed with the latest business news, updates on bank holidays and public holidays . AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
New Indian Express
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- New Indian Express
A stroll through the corridors of Central Prison
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Weird and freaky as it may seem, many wonder what it feels like to be incarcerated. For those curious to get a first-hand experience, the Central Prison recently opened its doors — not at its sprawling premises in Poojappura, but at the 'Ente Keralam' expo, which concluded at Kanakakunnu on Friday. We stepped inside a recreated prison environment to experience being locked up in a dingy, dark, almost suffocating space under strict surveillance. The experience was — perhaps the eeriness was what drew in several eager visitors. The entire facility was reproduced at the expo by the Kerala Prisons and Correctional Services. This prison once locked up several political veterans, including A K Gopalan. In its earlier location at Fort, the legendary thief Kayamkulam Kochunni was imprisoned until his execution. At its current site in Poojappura, records of inmates are sparse, but notable figures such as Vaikom Muhammad Basheer (released in 1943) and activist Rosamma Punnoose (released in 1942) are believed to have served time there. Notably, the film adaptation of Basheer's work Mathilukal was shot on the premises. Superintendent Sajeev S, Central Prison and Correctional Home, says the expo initiative was to give people a glimpse within the highly secured walls. 'The effort to recreate the prison was a joint one — by prison staff and inmates — and it took nearly a month to set up the 4, structure, based on the original facility that is spread out across nine acres at Poojappura,' he says. The actual prison remains off-limits to the public, but its outreach initiatives bring many of its projects to the community — such as the petrol pump at Poojappura managed by inmates, the nearby cafe, and the restaurant on jail property towards Jagathy. Particularly popular is the Freedom Food project, which played a key role during the 2018 flood relief efforts.
The Hindu
26-05-2025
- Business
- The Hindu
Transformative Governance Reshaping Kerala's Future
As the Left Democratic Front (LDF) Government in Kerala marks its fourth year in office, it presents not just an occasion for celebration but a compelling narrative of consistent, progressive governance. Following its resounding mandate in 2016 and its subsequent reelection in 2021, the LDF has charted a trajectory of sustained development, social equity, and administrative transparency—transforming Kerala into a model of inclusive progress. This government represents nine years of uninterrupted stewardship, with a clear vision to build a Nava Keralam—a New Kerala founded on the pillars of economic development, social justice, and sustainability. Unlike other aspirational slogans, Nava Keralam is a lived experience, steadily taking shape through policies that integrate technological advancement, infrastructure development, and human welfare. A distinctive hallmark of the LDF administration is its tradition of annual performance reporting. Every year, the government publicly presents its achievements against its electoral promises. This year too, a comprehensive Progress Report has been unveiled during a state-wide celebration in Thiruvananthapuram, reflecting on milestones and mapping future goals. This has been a moment of celebration for the entire State with special programmes, seminars and exhibitions being organised in all districts under the umbrella title Ente Keralam (My Kerala). Kerala has weathered profound challenges—from the COVID-19 pandemic to debilitating financial constraints imposed by the Central Government. The withholding of legitimate dues by the Centre has necessitated both legal action and public advocacy. Yet, the State has emerged stronger, propelled by a resilient civil society and a responsive government. Skeptics who once doubted Kerala's capacity for large-scale development have been silenced by visible, impactful progress. Landmark projects like the Vizhinjam International Seaport, once dismissed as impractical, are now nearing completion under the LDF's watch. While the foundation stone was laid during the previous UDF government, more than 90% of the work has been executed under LDF leadership. The State's long-stalled national highway development was revitalized only after the LDF assumed office. When the Centre imposed harsh conditions and withdrew support, the Kerala government stepped in, committing ₹6,000 crore for land acquisition. As a result, the long-held dream of a modern highway network is now being realized. While the first Pinarayi Vijayan government completed or fast-tracked the Kochi Metro Rail, Kannur Airport, GAIL pipeline, and the Idamalayar-Kochi Power Highway, the present government has been working with ceaseless enthusiasm on such as projects as the Digital Science Park, Kochi-Bengaluru Industrial Corridor, Kochi Water Metro, K-FON broadband network, and the Thiruvananthapuram Smart Road and Outer Ring Road projects. Kerala has also led in transparent employment practices. According to UPSC data, 42% of the nation's PSC appointments are from Kerala. Since 2016, over 2.8 lakh appointments have been made via the PSC, underscoring a commitment to merit-based opportunities. Through the LIFE Mission, 4.5 lakh homes have been built and handed over, aiming to make homelessness a thing of the past. Over 4 lakh title deeds have been distributed since 2016, with the majority issued after 2021. Simplified land use policies now offer relief to residents in hilly areas. Kerala leads the nation in the NITI Aayog's Multidimensional Poverty Index, with just 0.48% of its population affected. As part of its drive to eliminate extreme poverty, the State government identified 64,006 families, of whom 59,707 have already been supported. The goal is to achieve an 'Extreme Poverty-Free Kerala' by November 1, 2025. Simultaneously, the government has enhanced social welfare pensions from ₹600 to ₹1,600, benefiting 60 lakh citizens with reliable monthly disbursements. Kerala's public health system has undergone a dramatic transformation. 674 out of 886 primary health centers have been upgraded to family health centers. District hospitals now boast coronary care units, cath labs, and additional dialysis units. Over ₹7,000 crore in free treatments have been provided in four years, and the CARE scheme for rare diseases is now operational. In the education sector, the LDF has spearheaded a renaissance. Over ₹5,000 crore has been invested in school infrastructure. Out of 973 approved school renovations, 513 are complete, and over 50,000 classrooms have been modernized with AI, robotics, and tinkering labs. In higher education, eight universities and 359 colleges now have NAAC accreditation. Sixteen of these colleges are among India's top 100. The State has also launched initiatives like the Higher Education Commission, Navakerala Postdoctoral Fellowships, and Kairali Research Awards to foster research. The Loka Kerala Sabha, organised annually, has emerged as a platform for Malayalis worldwide, enabling diaspora participation in state development. Its success has inspired the Union Ministry of External Affairs to explore similar initiatives in other States, following commendations from a Parliamentary Committee. Kerala is emerging as a tech powerhouse. Major achievements include: India's first Digital University, Digital Science Park, Graphene Innovation Centre, and the Institute of Advanced Virology. The K-FON project is closing the digital divide, delivering broadband to homes and government offices. In IT, employment has surged to nearly 1.5 lakh people across Technopark, Infopark, and Cyberpark. Since 2016, 66,000 new jobs have been created. IT exports have nearly tripled to ₹90,000 crore. Kerala's startup ecosystem, valued at ₹5,800 crore, has grown by 254% between 2021 and 2023. From just 300 startups in 2016, the State now hosts 6,400, employing over 63,000 people. By 2026, the goal is 15,000 startups and 1 lakh jobs. Kerala is the top state in multiple indices. These include: Least poverty in India (NITI Aayog); first in Sustainable Development Goals Index; first in Health Index and Public Affairs Index; best performing State in Education (Ministry of Education); and most free medical treatments (Ayushman Bharat). Other accolades include: first Super Fab Lab in India; first Graphene Centre; first Digital Science Park; and first Water Metro system. Kerala is also the first to achieve total electrification and declare internet access a basic right. Kerala had been featured in The New York Times' in 2023 as one among the '52 Places to Visit'. Kerala has also blazed a laudable trail by instituting the Vayoshreshtha Samman for the elderly and creating India's most affordable talent pool. The fourth anniversary marks not just a milestone but a mission. It is one more landmark in Kerala's journey towards becoming a developed, equitable knowledge economy, with resilience, vision, and the people's unwavering support as its hallmarks. The LDF government's legacy is being written not just in policy documents but in the everyday lives of its citizens. 'This article is part of sponsored content programme.'
Time of India
24-05-2025
- Climate
- Time of India
Gusty winds and heavy rain hit Thiruvananthapuram district
Thiruvananthapuram: A powerful spell of heavy rain and gusty winds struck the capital district on Friday night, causing widespread destruction, power outages, and traffic disruptions that lasted into Saturday morning. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Despite the extensive damage, no casualties were reported. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), winds reached up to 59 km/h between 8pm and 11pm, prompting a red alert. By Saturday, conditions had eased, though an orange alert remained in place. Thiruvananthapuram city recorded 86.77 mm of rain, while the airport registered 96 mm in the last 12 hours till 8pm. The storm uprooted trees, damaged homes and flooded roads. A major incident occurred near the Press Club, where a massive banyan tree fell and damaged part of the roof. At Karyavattom, strong winds tore off a section of the Greenfield International Stadium's roof. In Fort, a tree crashed onto the taluk hospital's pharmacy roof, raising concerns about the safety of stored medicines. Roads were blocked by fallen trees in PTP Nagar and Sasthamangalam. Fire and rescue teams promptly cleared debris at all reported sites. In Kanakakunnu, a tree damaged three vehicles parked for the "Ente Keralam" exhibition. Power outages worsened as branches fell onto electric lines, including a snapped line near Pullanimukku. Tree falls disrupted traffic at multiple locations such as Pettah, Kowdiar, Peroorkada, Chennilode, and Vizhinjam Mukkola Junction. Twelve houses were completely destroyed and over 30 were partially damaged, especially in rural and suburban areas. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now banana plantations and vegetable farms were destroyed, leading to heavy losses. Flooding affected several parts of the city, including Thampanoor, Chackai, Beemapally, and Pattom. Emergency teams were deployed to clear drains and remove fallen trees. In Nedumangad, several homes were hit by tree falls, prompting rescue and repair operations. Disaster management authorities have urged residents to stay alert, especially in flood-prone and landslide-prone areas. The IMD has warned of the possibility of isolated rainfall in the coming days.
The Hindu
24-05-2025
- Sport
- The Hindu
District-level anti-drug campaign concludes in Thrissur
The district-level valedictory function of the Statewide anti-drug campaign, 'Kick Drugs, Say Yes to Sports,' organised by the Kerala Sports department, was inaugurated by Minister for Sports V. Abdurahiman at the Ente Keralam expo venue in Thrissur on Saturday. 'Children learn to win and lose in the playgrounds, shaping their character and resilience. The anti-drug campaign aims to revitalise the State's playgrounds, nurture more sporting talents, and eliminate the menace of substance abuse among youth,' he said. As part of the campaign's final leg, a walkathon, aimed at creating awareness against drugs, was flagged off in front of the Thrissur Aquatics Complex by MLA A.C. Moideen. District Collector Arjun Pandian led a marathon. MLA E.T. Tyson delivered the anti-drug pledge. The function also saw the distribution of prizes to the winners of the district-level anti-drug marathon, with Minister for Higher Education R. Bindu presenting the awards. Mr. Moideen presided over the event. The event featured a variety of cultural performances, drawing strong participation from students and youth. The Statewide anti-drugs rally, which began in Kasaragod on May 5, is scheduled to conclude in Malappuram on May 26.
