CM Pinarayi Vijayan blames opposition for stalling Kerala’s development

KOCHI: Unleashing an attack on the opposition, chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan alleged that UDF was trying to stall the development in state. After inaugurating ‘Ente Keralam’ exhibition that was organized to demonstrate the government’s achievements in the past two years on Sunday, Vijayan said that UDF is supporting the Centre’s efforts to choke the state government financially.The opposition boycotted the programme.
Centre is taking over all areas where revenue is generated. Tax share of the state is being cut down. It also put restrictions on availing loans. “Did 18 MPs from Kerala raise any of these issues in the Parliament? Could they raise their voice against the Union government’s attitude of choking the state? What's the UDF stand? What’s in their mind? They want the state and its people to suffer,” said Vijayan.
Development of schools, hospitals in constituencies of UDF MLAs was carried out using KIIFB funds. “Did they say they don’t want it? Despite adversities, we could carry out development projects at a rate above the national average. If an objection is raised against the flaws of the government, it will help increase the efficiency of the government. UDF is not doing it, they blindly oppose everything,” he added.
The CM said that the government is carrying out development projects in a big way. Many development projects, which are being carried out, will be inaugurated soon. For ensuring carbon neutrality, hydrogen hubs will be started in Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram at a cost of Rs 200 crore. The government gave around Rs 6000 crore for NH development. Works of coastal and hill highways are underway. The government is giving a big push to the tourism sector, he said.
Many projects, including an institute for organ transplant surgery at Kozhikode, are being set up in the health sector. Government has started many projects for the development of IT sector and science and technology, said the chief minister.
The chief minister also elaborated on the state’s achievements in welfare sector. Around 63 lakh people get welfare pension in Kerala. Around 2,31,000 houses were constructed under Life Mission in six to seven years. Government ensured a minimum support price for rubber and took measures to support all farmers. Around 2,03,000 advice memos were given by PSC in the past six years. Government is taking measures to put an end to extreme poverty, said the chief minister.