Government to announce policies in different sectors

Thiruvananthapuram: Chief Minister Pinarai Vijayan said in the Assembly on Thursday that his government emphasised clear policy, precise execution, strong administration and infrastructure development.

Replying to discussion on motion of thanks to the Governor for his address, the Chief Minister said that draft policies on various sectors such as information technology and industries would be announced shortly.

A consortium would be formed with contributions from individuals and corporates to fund specific objectives such as shelter for all and skill development. Investments would be canvassed from overseas Keralites for infrastructure development.

Widening of national highways to 45 metres, development of inland water ways, GAIL pipeline and other infrastructure projects would be pushed forward. Land would be acquired for development of Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode airports. Airstrips would be developed at different locations for landing of chartered flights.

Mr. Vijayan said that the government would work for a push in information technology. Technology should be used in different fields for improving the lives of common man.

Agriculture should be rendered remunerative using modern technology, research and development. People should be attracted into agriculture than being forced them into agriculture.

He said that the government would adopt a realistic environmental policy with emphasis on protection of environment. It was also thinking of setting up a State environmental agency. In the Tourism sector, emphasis would be given to new areas such as medical and pilgrimage tourism and development of new destinations.

An integrated public transport system, comprehensive policy on health care and improvement of quality of education would be prime objectives of the government. Smart and high-tech classrooms would be introduced in general education sector.

The cybercrime department of police would be modernised and more women introduced into the force. Use of rubber for surfacing of roads and value addition of produces such as coconut and spices would be promoted. Priority would be accorded to improving the quality of life of scheduled castes and tribes.

He said that the government was not against publication of information mandated under the Right to Information Act. Development should be based on equity.

Officials would work focus on helping people than denying their applications. Time bound delivery of services should be emphasised. Government would protect bona fide actions of government servants but would not tolerate corruption.

He said that there was no need for concern over the government’s stand on Mullaperiyar. “The government stood by the State’s general stand on the issue.”

Referring to criticism about his not giving proper response on the jailing of dalit women in Thalassery, Mr. Vijayan said that the Chief Minister was not to give explanations when each issue arose. If he announced his stand, that would affect fair investigation. “Let the investigation proceed rightly. The government will intervene when necessary.”

On his abandoning Cabinet briefing, Mr. Vijayan said the he did not feel that the Chief Minister should do the work of public relations. He was not averse to meeting the media when needed.

After the Minister’s reply, the House passed the motion for 89 votes against 31.