Keralam Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar delivers the inaugural policy of the VD Satheesan-led government at the Legislative Assembly, in Thiruvananthapuram
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Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar on Friday outlined the UDF government’s vision to transform the State into a globally competitive, innovation-driven and sustainable industrial economy in his policy address to the 16th Legislative Assembly.In his hour-long speech, the Governor said the government aims to strengthen infrastructure, accelerate investments and create high-quality employment opportunities. He highlighted major initiatives including port-led logistics and industrial development, expansion of industrial parks and sector-focused industrial ecosystems to position Kerala as a preferred destination for manufacturing, logistics, technology, life sciences and Global Capability Centres.The government will introduce progressive reforms to boost investor confidence, including formalizing the Investment Promotion Board for high-value projects, modernizing K-SWIFT into an integrated digital single-window clearance platform and empowering the Kerala State Single Window Clearance Board for faster, time-bound approvals and project facilitation.Along with support for MSMEs and traditional sectors such as coir, handloom, plantations and food processing, the government plans focused promotion of emerging sectors including artificial intelligence, biotechnology, medical devices, green energy, electronics and space technology to ensure inclusive industrialization.Stressing that industrial land availability is critical for attracting investments, the Governor said the government will prioritize the creation of a land bank through Special Purpose Vehicles using market borrowing and private fundraising.Legal aidOn elderly care, the address highlighted plans to make all cities in Kerala elderly-friendly. “Care Cabins” will function at Collectorates as support centres offering legal aid, healthcare and protection services for senior citizens.In higher education, the government proposed setting up an Academic Syndicate as an apex body for administrative and governance matters. Special emphasis will be placed on building globally competitive higher education institutions within the State to reduce academic migration and retain talented students.The Governor said the government envisions a “Puthuyuga Keralam” — a new-age Kerala combining economic growth with social justice, modern infrastructure with environmental responsibility, technological progress with human compassion and opportunity with equality.Published on May 29, 2026
