Fri Jan 02 05:25:49 UTC 2026: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:

Summary:

The Kerala state government launched the “Navakeralam Citizens Response Programme” on January 1, 2026, to gather public feedback for future development planning. Trained volunteers are conducting house visits across districts, collecting opinions from prominent figures and citizens on their vision for the state’s progress. The initiative aims to inform government policies to be implemented by 2031 and comes months ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.

News Article:

Kerala Launches Public Feedback Program Ahead of 2026 Elections

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, January 2, 2026 – The Kerala government has initiated the “Navakeralam Citizens Response Programme,” a statewide effort to collect public feedback to shape the state’s development plans for the next five years. The program, which commenced on January 1st, sees trained volunteers visiting homes and workplaces across Kerala to gather opinions and suggestions from residents.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan emphasized the importance of individual perspectives in shaping the state’s future, stating, “The opinion of each and every individual is important for the progress of the State.”

The program’s launch involved volunteers visiting prominent figures in each district. In Thiruvananthapuram, volunteers engaged with senior BJP leader O. Rajagopal, actor Madhu, and filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan. Former Supreme Court Justice K.T. Thomas was visited in Kottayam, while District Collector Chetan Kumar Meena delivered a letter from the Chief Minister.

In Kozhikode, Kaithapram Damodaran Namboothiri, the first resident visited, proposed establishing an arts village to showcase Kerala’s diverse art forms. Minister for SC/ST Welfare O.R. Kelu inaugurated the program in Wayanad, highlighting its goal of gathering opinions for policies to be implemented by 2031.

The government stated that volunteers will visit not only private residences but also workplaces, farmlands, educational and healthcare institutions, and commercial establishments to ensure comprehensive input. The launch comes months before the 2026 Assembly elections, suggesting a strategic move by the government to engage with the public and demonstrate its commitment to inclusive development.

Read More