Round table discussion draws suggestions on future development models for State

A decentralised framework for the development of basic infrastructure, a mobile phone-linked security network covering all households to tackle rising cybercrime, and the need for bridging the credibility gap in the public health-care system were among the suggestions and priorities listed at a round table discussion on future development models for Kerala organised by the C. Achutha Menon Foundation on Wednesday.

Experts from multiple sectors participated in the one-day event, titled ‘Kerala’s Development: Next Stage,’ organised by the Communist Party of India (CPI)-backed foundation close behind the Kerala State Planning Board’s three-day ‘Vision 2031: An International Conference on Development and Democracy.’

C. Veeramani, director, Centre for Development Studies (CDS), speaking on ‘Financing future development,’ suggested that Kerala should explore the possibilities in decentralising infrastructure development with an eye on attracting private investment and thus creating more jobs. Kerala faces a trilemma where it cannot slash revenue expenditure on welfare measures on the one hand, while, on the other, it has to increase investment and also create more jobs, Dr. Veeramani said. “It is essential to generate more employment in Kerala, for women especially, as educated unemployment is high. Even if the private sector are the job creators, the government has a role in preparing the infrastructure,” Dr. Veeramani said. In this context, cities come into focus as jobs are needed to be created there. Cities need to be transformed into “liveable cities and growth hubs,” he said.

Former State Police Chief Jacob Punnoose, speaking on cyber tech threats, suggested a State-wide security network linking all the households through mobile phones to a central system for tackling cyber era security threats. With Kerala turning into a big city, an integrated, intelligent traffic management system should be pursued, he said. Mr. Punnoose also recommended wider use of digital technologies in the criminal justice system. “Cyber crimes take place at the speed of light. So we also need a response system that works at the speed of light,” he said.

State Finance Commission Chairman K.N. Harilal stressed the need for efforts to regain the rapidly shrinking political and fiscal space. At the same time, the State can explore strategies for tapping the taxation potential of local governments, Dr. Harilal said. V. Ramankutty, Research Director, Amala Cancer Research Centre, pointed to the rise in an ‘unhealthy population’ and increasing cost of medical care as major concerns for Kerala. It was important to re-establish the credibility of the State’s public healthcare system and also promote preventive healthcare, Dr. Ramankutty said.

Speaking on public sector enterprises, former Chief Secretary V.P. Joy said up-to-date bookkeeping and efficient managerial staff in these units would be primary requirements if they are to transform into entities that contribute more to the Gross State Domestic product. Former Shipping secretary K. Mohandas, who spoke on attracting investments, underlined the importance of an efficient State-wide rail-road connectivity and increased focus of the government as a facilitator of infrastructure for industrial development.

Saji John, chief executive officer, Vegetable and Fruit Promotion Council, Keralam, (VFPCK) suggested that the area under horticulture in the State should be expanded in the coming years. He also stressed the need to adapt farming to climate change challenges in a timely manner.

The discussion sought to carry forward and and enrich the progressive developmental initiatives launched by the late C. Achutha Menon in the 1970s when he was the Chief Minister of Kerala, the Foundation said.. Planning Board member Ravi Raman moderated the session. Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal and CPI State secretary Binoy Viswam addressed the gathering.