NITI Aayog vice-chairman calls for innovative projects in backward areas of Idukki

Ashok Kumar Lahiri, Vice Chairman, NITI Aayog | Photo credit: SUSHIL KUMAR VERMA

NITI Aayog Vice-Chairman Ashok Kumar Lahiri on Friday called for innovative projects in the backward regions of Idukki district and stressed the need for targeted interventions in areas such as Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe Welfare, Health and Nutrition.

After reviewing the progress of development activities in the aspirational blocks in the hilly district, Lahiri reviewed the ongoing initiatives in Devikulam and Azhutha blocks. “Innovative projects should be introduced in backward areas of the district,” he said during the review meeting.

He also emphasized the need to strengthen programs aimed at improving the lives of vulnerable communities. “Special attention should be given to areas like Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe Development, Health and Nutrition,” Lahiri said in an official statement here.

He praises the showers

Appreciating Kerala’s overall development indicators, he said, “The people of Kerala are intelligent and capable and the state ranks first in the country. Literacy plays a key role in this success. Kerala can serve as an excellent model.” As part of his visit, Lahiri inspected the Chinnakanal Anganwadi, a family health center and the Government Anglo-Tamil Lower Primary School in Munnar, the report said.

District Collector Dr. Dineshan Cheruvatt urged government agencies to work more closely together in planning development initiatives. “Different departments should prepare and submit projects with more coordination,” he said. NITI Aayog Joint Secretary KS Regimon, Director Shoyah Ahmed and other senior officials attended the review meeting.

Published – 26 Jun 2026 20:44 IST