KOZHIKODE: President Pranab Mukherjee on Saturday inaugurated the ‘Kanivu’ initiative undertaken by the Social Justice Department. “In spite of Kerala having a robust social safety net, a large segment of the population finds it difficult to cope with the problems of destitution, chronic or life-threatening diseases, disabilities and sudden poverty,” the President said in his address.
“The government is committed to ensuring that none in the state languishes for want of food, medical treatment or care and the project is the best example towards it,” he added .
Through ‘Kanivu,’ the government will reach out to the bed-ridden people and persons with acute mental disorders who are virtually living in isolation. Having earmarked Rs 100 crore towards this project, the state will shoulder the responsibility of providing food, medicine and care to such needy people through community participation.
“Kanivinte Keralam” or ‘Compassionate Kerala’ adopted by the government is modelled on the district administration’s brainchild ‘Compassionate Kozhikode’ started to link compassionate people of the district with the needy.
Social justice minister M.K. Muneer receives the President at UL Cyberpark for the inauguration of four government projects on Saturday. Governor P. Sathashivam, Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and minister P.K. Kunhalikutty look on. (Photo: DC)
“Kudumbasree members, Asha workers, NGOs and voluntary organizations will join together with the Social Justice Department to implement various projects under Compassionate Kerala,” said Social Justice Minister M.K. Muneer during the inaugural ceremony.
The department in the last five years has successfully made use of Rs 5,000 crore for various projects for the welfare of needy and people in distress, he added.
‘Compassionate Kozhikode’ in a short span of time has kickstarted some noteworthy projects, including Operation Sulaimani, district collector’s internship programme, welfare homes, education scholarship, Sampoorna, mental hospital and public library intervention, Freedom Café, Yo Appooppa, legends of Kozhikode and Hey Auto.
