THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: A short version of ‘Vande Mataram’ was played at the beginning of the policy address. The government opted for the shortened version, contrary to Raj Bhavan’s direction for a full recital. Members of the Kerala Police performed an instrumental rendition of the national song. It was followed by the national anthem.
Indira Guarantee, comprising five election promises of the new UDF government, was the highlight of the first policy address delivered by Governor Rajendra Arlekar in the Kerala Legislative Assembly.
Free travel on KSRTC buses across the state will be a permanent entitlement for women. A stipend of Rs 1,000 will be given to girl students, and social security pensions will be increased to Rs 3,000. The free insurance scheme for families, named after former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, will provide annual coverage of Rs 25 lakh. Interest-free loans of up to Rs 5 lakh will be offered to young entrepreneurs.
The Governor said the newly created Department for the Welfare of the Elderly is the first of its kind in the country.
The policy address highlighted the government’s focus on reviving the cooperative banking sector. Efforts will be made for the “immediate return of deposits” upon maturity. The Deposit Guarantee Scheme will be revised, financial discipline will be enforced in stressed societies, and strict action will be taken against wrongdoers. The aim is to restore public trust in the sector, the Governor said.
The Excise Department will undergo an overhaul, with a “decisive and transformational shift” planned, he added. The reforms will be driven by modern intelligence gathering and technology. Digital surveillance tools will be introduced to dismantle drug supply chains. The multi-pronged approach also includes strengthening surveillance and behavioural programmes for college and school students.
The number of Plus-One seats will be increased. A Malabar Temple Pilgrim Circuit will be established, along with a programme for eco-friendly and accident-free visits to selected temples across the state.
