Kochi, 24 May (H.S.):

Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan on Sunday outlined an ambitious vision for Kerala’s future, saying the state government would focus on building a strong team of professionals and experts to transform Kerala into the region with the highest number of aviation projects in Asia while simultaneously addressing the growing challenge of brain drain.

Speaking at a reception organised for him, newly appointed Ministers and MLAs at the Kadavanthra Indoor Stadium in Kochi, Satheesan stressed the importance of creating opportunities that encourage young people to remain in the state rather than seeking prospects elsewhere.

He said Kerala has been witnessing a steady outflow of talented youth and professionals, and highlighted the need for a long-term strategy to reverse the trend. According to him, creating quality educational opportunities, generating employment and encouraging entrepreneurship would be central to the government’s development agenda.

“The migration of young people from the state is a serious issue. We must create conditions where they can build their future here itself,” Satheesan said, while underlining the need to support innovation and new ventures.

The Chief Minister also reiterated the government's commitment to social welfare and recalled the decision taken during the Cabinet’s first meeting to establish a dedicated Senior Citizens Department.

He said the way a society treats its elderly population reflects its level of development and civilisation. Satheesan expressed hope that by the end of the government's tenure, Kerala would be recognised globally as a society that places importance on caring for its senior citizens.

He further emphasised that the government would remain committed to protecting the interests of senior citizens, ensuring justice for future generations and preserving secular values while maintaining inclusivity towards all faiths.

The event witnessed the presence of prominent personalities from the Malayalam film industry, including actors Mammootty and Kunchacko Boban, along with several MLAs from Ernakulam district, Palakkad MLA Ramesh Pisharody and Aranmula MLA Abin Varkey.

During the function, Mammootty presented Satheesan with a traditional ponnada. Addressing the gathering, both Mammootty and Kunchacko Boban expressed hope that the new administration would work beyond political and social divisions for the welfare of the people.

In the presence of the actors, Satheesan also said Ernakulam should evolve into the central hub of the Malayalam film industry.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman