Thu Apr 24 14:35:10 UTC 2025: ## Kerala Chief Minister Highlights State’s Progress Despite Central Challenges

**Pathanamthitta, Kerala – April 24, 2025** – Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan celebrated his government’s fourth anniversary Thursday, highlighting the state’s resilience and achievements across various sectors despite facing numerous challenges. He reaffirmed the commitment to the Sabarimala Greenfield Airport project, emphasizing its potential to boost regional connectivity and the economy.

Vijayan cited the state’s successful navigation of crises, including the Nipah outbreak, Cyclone Ockhi, the 2018 floods, and the COVID-19 pandemic, as evidence of Kerala’s strength. He pointed to advancements in education, with improved technological infrastructure in schools and a significant drop in dropout rates, and healthcare, noting the state’s lauded response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including providing care for even the oldest residents.

Significant infrastructure investments were also highlighted, including ₹5,600 crore allocated for national highway land acquisition, the completion of projects like the GAIL pipeline and Edamon-Kochi power highway, and the construction of 4.5 lakh houses under the LIFE Mission. Social welfare pensions were increased from ₹600 to ₹1,600. The Chief Minister also emphasized the improvements in Kerala’s “ease of doing business” ranking, achieved through streamlined processes and online services.

However, Vijayan criticized the Union government for hindering Kerala’s development by reducing net borrowing limits and failing to provide adequate support during disasters. Despite these hurdles, he asserted that Kerala’s progress, including its aim to eradicate extreme poverty by November 2025, serves as a model for the nation. Health Minister Veena George delivered the presidential address at the anniversary meeting.

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