The state government is implementing development projects by giving equal importance to traditional sectors and agriculture along with modern industries, Finance Minister KN Balagopal said here on Saturday. He was speaking after launching a development seminar for Neduvathur grama panchayat 2026-27 People’s Plan campaign.
Highlighting the local progress, the minister noted that Neduvathur has evolved into a major development center for the Kottarakara region. He pointed out that the establishment of Zoho IT Park at Neduvathur has contributed significantly in increasing the income from occupation taxes for the local body.
“To ensure employment in traditional sectors, specialized vocational training programs have been introduced in unnathis. Authorized youth clubs will receive an annual financial assistance of ₹10,000 to support their activities,” he said.
Wildlife problem
Addressing the grievances of the farming community, Mr. Balagopal also assured that effective solutions would be found to mitigate recurring cases of human-wildlife conflict.
Giving an update on some key infrastructure projects in the region, the Minister said that the construction of Kottarakara Ayurvedic Hospital, one of the two integrated AYUSH hospitals in Kerala, is progressing steadily. “Funds have already been sanctioned to build modern markets in Veliyam and Mylam panchayats, while similar market construction projects are currently underway in Ezhukone and Kalayapuram. Also, development of Panayil-Paramukku road, which is being constructed at a cost of ₹ 3.75 crore, will be completed quickly,” he said.
The seminar was presided over by Neduvathur grama panchayat president V. Vidya, while standing committee chairman KS Amrita presented the draft plan.
Published – 14 Feb 2026 20:25 IST