Thiruvananthapuram, September 23 (Daily Kiran) : The Kerala government, led by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, has announced plans to dissolve the Lok Kerala Sabha, which has been in operation for nearly a decade. This decision aims to establish a new platform that will better connect expatriate Keralites with the state’s development and investment initiatives.
During a weekly cabinet meeting, Satheesan explained that the current format of the Lok Kerala Sabha would no longer be continued. The government intends to create an alternative system that offers a more effective forum for expatriates. He criticized the previous left-leaning administrations for failing to achieve meaningful outcomes through the Lok Kerala Sabha.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the new government seeks to go beyond mere discussions. It aims to leverage the extensive network of expatriate Keralites to shift the state’s economy from relying solely on remittances to a more investment-driven model.
To design this new framework, a sub-committee has already been formed under the Chief Minister’s leadership. Additionally, the government plans to launch a significant cultural and tourism campaign called “Festival Kerala” to mark the state’s 70th anniversary. This initiative will showcase Kerala’s cultural heritage and tourism potential across the country.
Alongside cultural events, the government also plans to hold investor conferences to attract investment to the state. Satheesan mentioned that the possibility of hosting “Festival Kerala” events abroad will be considered in the future.
In another significant move, the cabinet decided to rename the “Elders’ Welfare Department” to the “Department of Senior Citizens,” reflecting a shift in the government’s perspective towards the elderly population.
Given the rise in road accidents in the state, a major road safety campaign will also be launched, led by the transport department. This initiative will focus on raising awareness and enforcing strict action against traffic violations.
Furthermore, the cabinet approved financial assistance of 800,000 rupees to the families of nine individuals who lost their lives in landslides in several districts last week. This aid will be part of the government’s relief measures.
Regarding proposed amendments to the environmentally sensitive area notification, Satheesan stated that initial discussions have concluded, and the state government will conduct another round of talks before submitting its final report to the central government. He assured that all concerns raised by residents of affected areas would be considered before the government finalizes its stance.
The Chief Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding the interests of those living in ecologically sensitive regions when making decisions on the ESA proposal.
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