The article, “Bracing for the status quo in Kerala” (April 29), was well timed. More than governments and governance put together, there seems to be a serious crisis of planning ahead. Kerala’s economy is gradually falling behind the general economy in every aspect of growth. Like the ‘PIIGS countries’ of the European Union, Kerala too has been concentrating on consumption than much-needed investment. Kerala must start afresh before it is too late. There is a growing adult population. Without an emphasis on vocational skills, a stable industrial climate and producer services, its growth rate is likely to decline in the near future. Relying only on remittances without exploring additional streams of revenue is only foolishness. The people of the State need to look towards a new political alternative to help unleash the idea of a modern and model Kerala.
Shreyanka S. Ranade,Bengaluru
The veteran economist’s plea for a tectonic shift in the way the Kerala economy is run, given the existing condition of the State in grappling with unemployment and a dearth of employment opportunities, is timely. A recent economic study found that the impact of the oil crisis and a stagnation in West Asian economies have affected semi-skilled and unskilled workers. The Persian Gulf is no longer a lustrous spot for Keralites since countries there have begun indigenous labour protection policies that are shaped by geopolitical considerations. For Kerala, there must sustainable development policies encouraging home production and investment to boost employment opportunities. Remodelling agriculture policies, vocationalism and skill development, revitalising cottage/ small-scale industries, promoting eco-tourism and ayurveda, and a prudent management of State-owned enterprises are musts.
Vishnu K.,Thrissur
