THIRUVANNATHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday said that the increase in number of Gulf returnees was adversely affecting the state's economy.
Inaugurating a three-day seminar on Re'building of Kerala economy - An alternative viewpoint', the chief minister said the contribution of non-resident expatriates to state's economy was enormous. There are restrictions on immigration following policy changes in Gulf countries. There is a decline in flow of money to Kerala thus adversely affecting the state's economy.
Mr. Vijayan said the Central Government's stand towards state's post-flood rebuilding exercise was unfortunate.
They declined to take help even from those who were ready to provide assistance, he said while referring to Modi government's decision to refuse Rs 700 crore-aid from UAE.
The chief minister said tourism played an important role the economic development of the state contributing 10 per cent of the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP). Since many tourist centres are located in ecologically fragile areas, the emphasis will be on environment-friendly tourism projects.
Mr. Vijayan said the devastating floods last year wreaked havoc in all sectors. The rebuilding exercise will involve almost all sectors like economy, agriculture, health, education, housing, power, irrigation and transport.
He said the government was focusing on generating employment opportunities in the state by enhancing the skill of youth.
There is a need for attracting investments and entrepreneurs in certain areas. The chief minister urged the people to ensure the unity that was witnessed during the devastating floods in the process of rebuilding Kerala.
Mr. Vijayan said school text books would by revised to include Renaissance values.
The chief minister said the government succeeded in bringing an end to nookukooli system. The government has ensured minimum labour charges in 26 sectors. The charges of other sectors are also being revised in a time-bound manner.
