Thiruvananthapuram: In a landmark move, the Kerala government has announced that it is actively considering extending Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) reservations to the private sector. The proposal is part of the progress report released to mark the second Pinarayi Vijayan-led government’s fourth anniversary.
The report outlines significant socio-economic and infrastructural developments, reiterating the government’s commitment to inclusive growth and equity. One of the key highlights is the confirmation of implementing a Public Service Commission (PSC)-like reservation model for teaching and non-teaching posts in educational institutions managed by the Devaswom Board.
Additionally, the state is reviewing the findings of the K.G. Balakrishnan Commission to explore the possibility of extending SC status to Dalit Christians — a long-standing demand that could reshape caste-based affirmative action policies in the state.
Despite continued opposition, the state government remains firm on proceeding with the SilverLine semi-high-speed rail project. The Detailed Project Report is currently being evaluated by the Railway Board, and the administration has made it clear that it will await final clearance from Indian Railways before moving ahead.
On the infrastructure front, projects worth ₹12,500 crore under the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) are scheduled for completion by December 2025.
Kerala’s burgeoning start-up ecosystem has also witnessed significant progress. Since 2016, the number of start-ups has surged from 300 to 6,400, attracting ₹5,983 crore in investments and generating 64,000 jobs. The state now aims to reach 15,000 start-ups and create 100,000 jobs by next year. Moreover, 3.53 lakh new enterprises have reportedly been established, drawing ₹26,888 crore in investments and creating 7.5 lakh employment opportunities.
Under the LIFE Mission housing initiative, 4.5 lakh houses have been constructed, and over 4 lakh land titles distributed. In the education sector, the state has introduced reforms to ensure 200 working days and 1,000 instructional hours per academic year in schools. Notably, agriculture has been integrated into the school curriculum to promote food production awareness among students.
The government claims to have successfully fulfilled all 900 promises listed in its election manifesto, along with the implementation of several additional developmental programs.
