Kerala has been noted for many progressive steps which transformed the social fabric of the State. The Land Reforms, the leap in Education, Minimum wages for laborers, protection to Trade union rights etc., had made Kerala a model for other States to follow. 

       The present Government sought to rebuild the State as one of the most advanced societies in the world, through the Navakeralam Mission. Today, the Navakeralam Mission clubbed with the flag ship schemes and central sector schemes of Government of India, which has been focusing on Education, Agriculture & Environment, Housing and Health has started showing positive results, slowly building a model in each of the areas it covers.

       This Government could sustain Kerala's lead role in general education by initiating the process of making thousands of classrooms high-tech and revamping the syllabus so that our children’s development can take advantage of the global exposure and competitive world.

       Thanks to the Harithakeralam Mission which revived organic farming in the State, thereby moving towards self sufficiency in the production of paddy, vegetable and milk. In Health sector, the Aardram Mission has made health-care facilities patient-friendly. Many primary health centers have been upgraded to Family Health Centers and great attention has been paid to Trauma care, mental health etc. The recent and quick response to the Nipah virus outbreak bears testimony to the professionalism in the health-care system.

       The State Government, particularly the Health Department and the Health Workers and Doctors of Kozhikode districts and neighbouring districts deserves a huge appreciation from all of us.

       Convinced that a new Kerala cannot be a reality with lakhs of homeless people, the Government has taken up the Livelihood Inclusion and Financial Empowerment mission[LIFE] which is moving ahead to build five lakh houses to socially and financially empower the marginalized people.

The thrust given by this Government to the setting up of infrastructure without harming the environment merits special mention.  By ensuring total electrification building the largest floating solar plant, the scene for energy efficiency has been set up not only in the domestic sector but also in transport through solar powered boats, electric cars, CNG buses etc.

The distinction of recognizing Access to the Internet as a right, is a significant step towards a much improved service delivery through Information Technology. The digital empowerment of the masses, modern Technology Parks, huge investments in the IT sector and one of the best Start-Up ecosystems in the country have helped Kerala to be  in tune with the trends of the  21^st century.

I have also been informed that while ensuring labor rights through the timely re-fixing of minimum wages, the Government has also sought measures to retain Public Sector units which were facing closure or dis-investment; and the revival of public sector units has shown positive results with 13 firms turning profitable due to an encouraging Industrial Policy.  

 The improved conditions of highways and other roads also reflect the determination of Government in augmenting infrastructure.

        In addition to these achievements, there are some seemingly good steps which have shown Kerala's genuine concern for the weaker sections.  As the former Judge of the highest Court who ordered the prohibition of manual scavenging in the 'Safai Karamchari Andolan Vs Union of India' case, I am happy to see the Government's adoption of  ‘BANDICOOT’, a robotic solution to clean manholes and drains, which was earlier done by humans.  The concept of Responsible Tourism and Disabled Friendly Tourist Spots, shows the commitment towards people with specially-abled persons. 

Besides these achievements, there are also some other matters which need our urgent attention. The state of Kerala is well known for peaceful co existence and social harmony. Even amidst so many enviable examples of amity, we are often disturbed by instances of political unrest and hatred resulting in bloodshed in some Districts and some parts of the State.

       Let us not forget that true welfare also lies in the people’s right to live happily and without fear.  The unending saga of political murders and clashes should remind us to be more vigilant in preventing political differences rotting to murderous hatred.

As we all are aware, 2^nd October this year marks the 150^th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. We should all work hard to transmit the Gandhian principles of tolerance, non violence and humanism among the young generation who in future will become the flag holders of Gandhian philosophy in our State and our Country.

Let us hope that theKerala will be enriched by creative ideas that compete to make our state the most advanced, peaceful and peace loving society in the world. The progressive steps coupled with a stronger vigilancein ensuring social amity would certainly take us closer to Navakeralam very soon.

       I congratulate all the people who have been contributing to the social harmony, growth and development of Kerala in the recent years. The various political parties have been vigilant in responding to each and every issue, vigorously suggesting remedial measures and demanding action in the true spirit of democracy. I hope this democratic tradition would add strength to our governments and make Kerala a better and preferred place to live.

       I wish the State Government many more achievements in the coming years and hope that the State Government could continue to work tirelessly and with new vigour for the welfare of the State and for a peaceful state.

       I compliment the organizers for conducting this function in a befitting manner.

Ellavarkkum Ente Aashamsakal

Nanni

Jai Hind.

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