Development first: BJP State President Rajeev Chandrasekhar backs Chief Minister’s economic roadmap

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: “If the goal is development, we stand with the Chief Minister.” The latest move by BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar has come as a surprise, with his remarks going viral on social media. This is the first time a political leader has received such widespread support for an opinion.

Rajeev Chandrasekhar shared and welcomed a post by Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan outlining the decisions taken at the first meeting of the State Planning Board. With this, Chandrasekhar appears to be moving away from the traditional opposition approach of criticising virtually every move of the government.

“Like every Malayali, I too want to see a change and move away from corruption, lack of investment, unemployment and the high cost of living. I also believe that you are sincere in your efforts to achieve these goals,” Rajeev said in his opening remarks.

He also put forward suggestions on the areas the state government should prioritise to achieve development and growth. These included addressing the rising public debt and financial pressures, tackling systemic corruption and administrative failures, and adopting an education system that equips young people to enter an industrial landscape shaped by the digital and AI era.

It was the Chief Minister's post that caught his attention. Satheesan had expressed confidence that Kerala was ready for a new leap in development, stating that the state's annual economic growth rate would be raised from five per cent to seven per cent. He had also outlined targets to expand Kerala's economy from Rs 16 lakh crore to Rs 28 lakh crore, attract more investments and increase employment opportunities. Rajeev Chandrasekhar responded to this post.

Rajeev also pointed out that investments would flow to places where skilled workers are available, while skilled workers would move to places where opportunities exist.

He further noted that maintaining a strong and sustainable relationship and partnership with the Central Government would help boost investor confidence and benefit both the state and its people.