EMERGING KERALA – A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO SHOWCASE KERALA’S STRENGTHS

07 September 2012, Kochi: In view of the reservations and misgivings emanating from several quarters about ‘EMERGING KERALA’ and its objectives, this is to present the position of Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), the leading industry organization of India. 

CII has been associated with the Government of Kerala in organizing ‘Emerging Kerala’ and there is a very clear understanding of the purpose of this initiative. Emerging Kerala is not an event, it is an initiative of Government of Kerala to position Kerala and its strengths rightly in a globally connected world, and the event on 12-14 Sep in Kochi is the first step of this initiative where global leaders - business leaders, politicians, ambassadors, academicians, entrepreneurs, et al will discuss and debate opportunities and challenges that Kerala presents. The state has tremendous potential as an investment destination, most of which are not known to the outside world. The event will help showcase the strengths and capabilities of Kerala. The three day event will serve as a platform for Government officials, thought leaders, industrialists, foreign missions and other key influencers to meet, discuss and debate how these strengths and capabilities can be leveraged to make Kerala an investment destination of choice.

‘Emerging Kerala’ is not an investor meet where MoU’s or business contracts are slated to be signed. No proposals will be firmed up in haste nor will any plan prejudicial to the interest of the state be considered. All investment opportunities which attract interest will sbe subject to requisite clearances and approvals from appropriate authorities, before it is taken forward. The Government of Kerala has publicly gone on record to give this assurance on several occasions. Hence there is no room for any misgivings about ‘Emerging Kerala’ and its objectives.

“We need to redefine the position and role of Kerala in a globally connected new generation world. Emerging Kerala is a wonderful opportunity for this. Thanks to the efforts of successive Governments, we lead other states in social development. A similar effort is required to promote the economic prosperity of Kerala. The only way to do this is to play to our strengths and bring in investments that are sustainable in the long run. Investments provide employment opportunities to the educated youth of the Kerala. The common man will also stand to benefit through increased economic activity. Emerging Kerala is an important step in that direction. We urge all political parties to shed differences and come together to support this important event” said
Mr VK Mathews, Chairman CII Kerala   

Regarding the apprehensions about the Emerging Kerala, Mr Mathews said “No company will take a decision to invest in Kerala because Government of Kerala has conducted a 2 days event. Companies will study the feasibility and sustainability of projects/ programs thoroughly before investment decisions are taken. Similarly, no company will be able to go ahead with any project without prior approvals from the Government. So, there is no need for any apprehensions at this stage.”