THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has announced projects that will help the development of the state. The new government's development plans were announced at the first press conference since taking office. He said that the government will continue to stand by the people and would implement everything stated in the LDF manifesto. A special policy will be formulated to modernize higher education. Families living in poverty will be found and helped. The Chief Minister has also given priority to health schemes.

"Emphasis will be given to educational and housing projects. The government will uphold the development vision. Productivity will be increased in the agricultural sector. Production of paddy and vegetables will double in five years. Irrigation projects will also be given priority. A project will be implemented to store rainwater without discharging it into the sea. The quality of ancillary services available to farmers will be enhanced. The capacity of the Agricultural University will be fully utilized," The CM said.

"Kerala will be made a knowledge hub. The government aims to help the state achieve self-sufficiency in milk production by 2025. Inland fisheries will be promoted. Public sector institutions will be developed. Krishi Bhavan will be made smart. Contemporary information of geographical records will be added. Complete hygiene will be ensured. Several projects will be introduced in the IT department as well. Industrial growth will be ensured. Traditional industries will be modernized. The IT sector will be strengthened. A special scheme will be implemented for skill development. The new government will focus on higher education," he added.

Kochi-Palakkad Industrial corridor will be implemented. Teacher-student behavior will be made transparent. Solid waste problems will be solved. Waste-free Kerala will become a reality. Science awareness will be developed in the students. Employment opportunities will be increased. Education will be brought up to international standards. Renovation of libraries will be implemented. Research institutes will be strengthened. Priority will be given to uplifting the status of women. Assistance will be provided to the differently-abled. Steps will be taken to implement the Geriatric Survey and bring services to the doorstep.