THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Finance Minister K N Balagopal said that a new project (K Homes) will be launched for tourism seeking the empty and unoccupied homes across the state, thereby maximizing their utility in Kerala. The minister said the project aims to incorporate the lessons learnt from similar examples across the world and thereby provide affordable accommodation in the homes mentioned above. In addition to providing revenue for the houseowners, this will also help in ensuring the maintenance and safety of the house.

This pilot project will be implemented in the areas within a radius of 10-kilometer around tourism destinations like Fort Kochi, Kumarakom, Kovalam, Munnar etc. After evaluating the results of this pilot project, this will be implemented across the state. An amount of Rs 5 crore has been set apart for the initial expenses of it.

The finance minister presented several projects for the development of Kochi in the state budget. Rs 7 crore has been allocated for the Kochi Muziris Biennale and Rs 212 crore for the development of the Digital Science Park.

Other projects
1. Rs 10 crore will be allocated for the purchase of government vehicles
2. DA dues will be merged with PF.
3. Rs 2 crore will be allocated for a project to prevent cyber-attacks.
4. Rs 100 crore will be allocated for coastal protection.
5. Rs 107.6 crore will be allocated for coir industry.
6. Rs 14.8 crore will be allocated for khadi industry.
7. Rs 50 crore will be allocated for elderly care.
8. Rs 1431.73 crore will be allocated for health sector.