Kerala aims to become a global hub for knowledge-driven, high-tech manufacturing industries within the next 10-15 years. P Rajeev, the state’s Industries Minister, outlined this vision at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos. Rajeev highlighted Kerala’s focus on attracting major investments through the upcoming Invest Kerala Global Summit.
Kerala’s Global Investment Push
For the first time, Kerala has established a pavilion at Davos, signaling its ambitions on the global stage. Rajeev said the pavilion serves as an extension of the state’s ongoing roadshows across India and abroad, aimed at promoting the summit and fostering investment opportunities.
“Kerala is known as God’s own country, and we are working towards making it much more prosperous,” he said. The summit, scheduled for next month, is expected to draw investments in key sectors including pharmaceuticals, ports, shipping, and knowledge-based industries.
Focus on Ease of Doing Business
Rajeev highlighted Kerala’s improved ranking in ease of doing business, supported by positive investor feedback. “Kerala’s reputation as a welfare state with minimal inequality makes it an attractive destination for investment,” he noted. The state’s track record includes successful large-scale projects like the Vikrant ship project and BPCL’s investment initiative, both completed without any labor disruptions.
Key Sectors and Talent Retention
Kerala is targeting high-potential sectors such as medical devices, spice processing, and tourism. The state also plans to leverage its strategic location to boost ports and shipping industries. To retain its globally sought talent, Kerala is focusing on creating high-paying jobs in IT, data analytics, and other in-demand sectors.
Rajeev highlighted a growing trend of reverse migration among professionals. Kerala is building quality education campuses and offering opportunities to reduce the need for students and workers to go abroad.
“If we create job opportunities here, our talent will stay back,” he said.
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A Legacy of Innovation
Kerala has a rich history of industrial and technological advancements, from pioneering television manufacturing plants to setting up tech parks. Major technology companies, including IBM, have continued to invest in the state, reaffirming its potential.
Driving a New Industrial Narrative
Addressing perceptions about the Left Front government’s stance on industrialization, Rajeev highlighted Kerala’s practical approach to fostering economic growth. “Our top ranking in ease of doing business and our commitment to facilitating projects on time reflect the reality of Kerala as an industrial-friendly state,” he said.
Vision for the Future
Kerala’s presence at global events like Davos and its proactive investment initiatives underline its ambition to become a preferred global destination for innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable industrial development.
“The Invest Kerala Global Summit is not just about showcasing the state but realizing its true potential as a leader in cutting-edge industries,” Rajeev concluded.
This news was first reported by PTI.
