Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala – A three-day international conference focused on development and democracy opened in the Kerala state capital on , bringing together economists, policy experts, and scholars from across the globe. The event, organized by the Kerala State Planning Board, aims to formulate a long-term development perspective for the state through .
The conference will review the past decade of development in Kerala, examining both successes and challenges. Organizers stated a key objective is to evaluate national and international best practices to inform future policy decisions. is a significant year for Kerala, marking the 75th anniversary of the state’s establishment, and the conference is intended to consolidate past gains and chart a course for continued progress.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated the conference at at the Sankaranarayanan Thampi Members’ Lounge of the Kerala Legislative Assembly. Renowned economist Amartya Sen and historian Romila Thapar participated in the opening session remotely. Abdullah Abu Shawesh, the Ambassador of Palestine to India, and Shakuntala Haraksingh Thilsted, a World Food Prize laureate, are also among the speakers scheduled to address the conference.
The timing of this conference coincides with a period of significant change and ambition for Kerala. Recent reports indicate the state is rapidly positioning itself as a hub for innovation-driven industries. Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal, speaking at the Industrial Mega Summit during IIIE 2026 in January, highlighted a “positive shift” in the state’s industrial ecosystem. He emphasized the need for industries to modernize both their processes and products to ensure sustainable growth.
Balagopal pointed to Kerala’s robust infrastructure – including high-quality roads, airports, and ports – as a key advantage in attracting investment. This infrastructure, he argued, is among the best in the country, supporting the state’s ambition to become a preferred destination for technologically advanced industries. The Industrial Mega Summit, held as part of the India International Industrial Expo (IIIE) 2026, drew over 10,000 members of the Kerala State Small Industries Association (KSSIA) from all 14 districts of the state.
Beyond industrial development, Kerala is also making strides in urban planning. The state recently became the first in India to frame a comprehensive Urban Policy, with a long-term vision extending to . This policy targets 80% urbanization and focuses on developing climate-smart, inclusive cities. This commitment to sustainable urban development aligns with the broader goals of the ‘Vision 2031’ conference.
The conference’s focus on development and democracy is particularly relevant given the upcoming local body polls in Kerala. These elections are considered a crucial test for the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF), the United Democratic Front (UDF), and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The outcome of these polls will likely influence the implementation of policies discussed at the conference and shape the state’s political landscape in the years to come.
Kerala’s emergence as an innovation hub and its proactive approach to urban planning are attracting attention both nationally and internationally. The state’s commitment to sustainable development and inclusive growth positions it as a potential model for other regions in India and beyond. The ‘Vision 2031’ conference represents a significant step in solidifying this position and charting a course for a prosperous and equitable future.
The state’s focus on modernization extends to its healthcare system. Recent measures have been taken to tighten spending on Karunya healthcare funds, prioritizing essential medicines over branded alternatives. This move reflects a broader effort to ensure affordable and accessible healthcare for all citizens.
While Kerala is experiencing positive economic and developmental trends, challenges remain. The state continues to grapple with issues such as unemployment and the need to create more opportunities for its growing population. The conference is expected to address these challenges and explore potential solutions through collaborative dialogue and knowledge sharing.
The third edition of the India International Industrial Expo is scheduled to be held in Kochi from , further demonstrating Kerala’s commitment to fostering industrial growth and attracting investment. The event will provide a platform for businesses and policymakers to connect and explore new opportunities.
The conference’s emphasis on evaluating past development and formulating a long-term vision underscores Kerala’s proactive approach to planning for the future. By bringing together leading experts and stakeholders, the Kerala State Planning Board aims to create a roadmap for sustainable and inclusive growth that will benefit all citizens of the state.
