Thiruvananthapuram: Chief minister V D Satheesan on Thursday said UDF govt would work to fulfil the aspirations of the people and build a ‘new Kerala’ through reforms in education, healthcare, infrastructure and the economy.While replying to the debate on the motion of thanks to the governor’s policy address in the assembly, Satheesan said the state had made significant progress in social sectors over the past decades but had recently witnessed stagnation due to delays in implementing development projects. He stressed that UDF govt was open to criticism and willing to correct mistakes in the larger public interest.The chief minister highlighted govt’s commitment to improving higher education and healthcare, saying world-class educational institutions and modern job-oriented courses would be introduced to curb student migration. Kerala would also be developed as a healthcare destination, he said.Satheesan noted that two of the five ‘Indira Guarantees’ promised by UDF had already been approved by cabinet. The first phase of free travel for women in KSRTC buses will be launched on June 15. He also announced the creation of a dedicated department for senior citizens, aimed at promoting a ‘silver economy’ and enhancing their participation in society.Govt’s major development goals are transforming Kerala into a maritime hub by integrating its ports and promoting coastal cargo transport, cruise tourism and inland water tourism. Plans are also being pursued to make Kerala a major aviation hub through airport expansion and aviation-related projects, he said.Govt will support startups through financial assistance and mentoring programmes while creating a more investment-friendly environment, he said. Measures to modernise higher education, combat drug abuse, strengthen public healthcare and address human-wildlife conflict will also be implemented, he added.
