Kozhikode is now extreme poverty-free district

Minister for Forests and Wildlife A.K. Saseendran declared Kozhikode as an extreme poverty-free district at an event held at S.K. Pottekkatt Cultural Centre on Tuesday. The Minister, who attended the session virtually, also announced the successful completion of the ‘Oru Thai Nadam’ campaign in the district.

A survey conducted in 2021-22 under the aegis of various local bodies had identified 6,773 families in the district as extremely poor. They were provided with necessary assistance, including food, health support, employment, and safe accommodation, under the aegis of the local bodies and various agencies. As many as 1,816 families were provided with food, while 4,775 people received medical support. A total of 579 families benefited from the palliative care provided by the local bodies, and health support equipment was distributed to 73 people. Meanwhile, income was ensured for 513 families, and houses were provided to 2,050 families.

All the local bodies in the district have now declared themselves free from extreme poverty. The State-level declaration will be made by the Chief Minister in Thiruvananthapuram on November 1. A total of 64,006 families were identified as extremely poor across the State.

Ahammad Devarkovil, MLA, presided over the event. Vice-president of the Kozhikode district panchayat P. Gavas released the Water Budget of the Kozhikode Corporation. He also declared the completion of the ‘Pacha Thuruthu’ project in the district. He honoured the individuals who delivered exemplary service in the Haritha Keralam Mission.

Standing committee chairperson of the district panchayat V.P. Jameela released the comprehensive Water Budget for the district. Executive Director of Centre for Water Resources Development and Management (CWRDM) Manoj P. Samuel released the report of the Haritha Keralam Mission.