Thiruvananthapuram: Chief minister V D Satheesan has said that his govt’s first 100 days focused on fulfilling electoral promises, strengthening social welfare and laying the foundation for a “New Kerala” driven by inclusive development and good governance.In an article marking the completion of 100 days in office, Satheesan said UDF’s historic victory with 102 seats was a result of people embracing the “New Kerala” vision. He said govt was committed to implementing promises made during the election campaign.Among the decisions taken at the first cabinet meeting were free travel for women on KSRTC buses, increased honourariums for ASHA workers, anganwadi employees, school cooks, pre-primary teachers and ayahs, and an extension of the validity of PSC rank lists.Govt has also launched the 100-day action programme, covering 597 projects across 11 sectors and involving 43 departments, he said. Govt was pursuing both major development projects and welfare measures aimed at supporting vulnerable sections of society, Satheesan said.He highlighted the implementation of “Indira Guarantees”, including free travel for women and the creation of a dedicated department for senior citizens. Govt also intervened in the market ahead of Onam to contain inflation, he said. Subsidised essential commodities are being supplied through Supplyco and Consumerfed outlets, with adequate stocks maintained to avoid shortages.Despite what he described as an unprecedented financial crisis, govt presented its first budget without imposing additional taxes. Welfare pensions were distributed without interruption, while festival allowances, bonuses and other benefits were sanctioned for govt employees, pensioners and various sections of workers.Govt allocated funds to clear pending scholarships for SC and ST students, Karunya and Arogyakiranam liabilities, paddy procurement dues and payments to MGNREGS workers, he said. Financial assistance was also extended to Endosulfan victims, tribal communities, migrant workers and employees of closed plantations.In the fight against drugs, the home department’s “Operation Toofan” resulted in the arrest of more than 10,000 people linked to drug networks, Satheesan said. “Operation Kalari” has been launched to encourage youngsters to take up sports, while the excise department is implementing “Operation Thunder”.Satheesan outlined major investment initiatives, including “Mission Samudra”, a Rs 400-crore project aimed at transforming Kerala’s coastline into a global manufacturing hub. Govt plans to develop logistics and industrial ecosystems around Vizhinjam port and airports, while promoting AI, digital technology, semiconductors and foreign investment.Satheesan said govt would remain open to criticisms and correct genuine mistakes, but wouldn’t yield to pressure from vested interests.He said Kerala would adopt scientific flood-resilience measures, and initial discussions were held with IIT-Roorkee on Kerala Flood Resilience Initiative.“Hundred days is a short period, but we can confidently say that govt has moved forward with pride towards its goal of compassion and good governance,” Satheesan said.
