KOCHI: The district often referred to as the state’s business capital has seen many a District Collector over the years. But there have been only a select few among them, whose legacy has survived their tenure.
Well, M G Rajamanickam, who bowed out after an eventful stint at the District Collectorate here, would definitely be up there, right at the top. Known for the human face of his administrative prowess, Rajamanickam’s connect with the common people was such that the young Collector was perceived as more endearing than intimidating.
Popularly known as the ‘People’s Collector’, Rajamanickam, who has been promoted as Managing Director of Kerala Financial Corporation with additional charge of Excise Additional Commissioner, is demitting the office after playing a crucial role in the district’s development. It was under his watch that major developmental projects such as Kochi Metro, Smart City, North Railway Overbridge, Pachalam ROB got the final nod.
It was in recognition of his achievements-- he had been instrumental in the speedy acquisition of land for several projects such as Metro Rail and seaport-airport road as well as the launch of some novel projects--Jyothi, Bhoomigeetham, BPL card distribution and Amballoor electronics park-- that Rajamanickam was honoured with the Award for the Best District Collector in 2014. Interestingly,it was the first time that the Award had been bestowed on a District Collector here. His decisive stand against a major real estate firm also won plaudits from several quarters.
The Collector’s initiatives-- restoration of abandoned ponds, ‘Jyothi’, ‘Muthe ponne’, ‘PA-PA’ project and several other philanthropic projects-- also contributed to his popular appeal.
Rajamanickam, who was also appointed as special officer for Kochi Cancer Institute, recently launched the Raksha project. The success of the 2014 LS polls and this year’s Assembly elections, which passed off without any untoward incidents being reported from any corner of the district, further underscored the Collector’s mettle as an effective administrator. Owing to his people friendly attitude, there was a sharp rise in the number of people, who turned up at the Collectorate to seek redressal for their grievances, as compared to the previous incumbents.