Thiruvananthapuram: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday launched Vikasana Sadas, a month-long state-wide initiative planned to be executed through the local bodies. The state-level inauguration was held at the Nishagandhi Auditorium under the leadership of the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation. The project is aimed at shaping Kerala’s future development through public participation. 

“Kerala is taking a new step forward through these development assemblies. Progress made so far will be reviewed, and people’s views on how their homeland should advance will be collected. These suggestions will be consolidated into development projects planned from the grassroots level, reflecting local needs and aspirations,” the Chief Minister said.

He emphasised that local self-government institutions form the backbone of Kerala’s development. “The progress of each region contributes to the progress of the state and the country. Development must be a collective effort, not just the responsibility of those in power. Standing together is of great importance,” he noted.

Tracing Kerala’s legacy in decentralisation, Vijayan said the foundation for people’s planning was laid during the first EMS Namboodiripad government. “Since then, Kerala has remained a model for participatory development, with citizens actively involved in local projects. The present government continues this approach, extending impartial support to all local bodies,” he added.

The event was presided over by Local Self-Government Minister M B Rajesh. Thiruvananthapuram Mayor Arya Rajendran, General Education and Labour Minister V Sivankutty, MLAs Antony Raju and V K Prasanth, District Panchayat President D Suresh Kumar, senior officials from the Local Self-Government Department, and other dignitaries were also present.