Ex-Cabinet Secretary K.M. Chandrasekhar reappointed Vice-Chairperson of Kerala Planning Board
Thiruvananthapuram, July 21
Former Cabinet Secretary K.M. Chandrasekhar has been re-appointed Vice-Chairperson of the Kerala State Planning Board, marking his second stint in the key policy-making body and signaling the V.D. Satheesan government's emphasis on administrative experience and fiscal reforms.
The 78-year-old former top bureaucrat had earlier headed the Planning Board during the Oommen Chandy-led UDF government's 2011-16 tenure, when he played a pivotal role in steering the state's development planning, which included the Kochi Metro and also the Vizhinjam Port.
Chandrasekhar has long been associated with the Congress-led United Democratic Front and returned to the government's policy framework soon after the Satheesan administration assumed office.
He was entrusted with heading the high-level committee that prepared the White Paper on Kerala's finances, a document that sought to present an assessment of the state's fiscal position and laid the foundation for the government's financial reform agenda.
One of India's most distinguished civil servants, Chandrasekhar served as Cabinet Secretary during the second United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government headed by former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, capping a career that included several key assignments in both the Centre and Kerala.
As Vice-Chairperson, Chandrasekhar will spearhead the Planning Board's work in preparing development strategies, evaluating projects and advising the government on policy initiatives.
He is expected to be assisted shortly by a panel of expert members drawn from diverse sectors, who will be appointed by the government in the coming days. Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan will serve as the Chairperson of the newly constituted Planning Board.
Cabinet colleagues P.K. Kunjalikutty, Sunny Joseph, Mons Joseph, Shibhu Baby John and C.P. John have been included as members.
The appointment is being viewed as a continuation of the government's effort to blend political leadership with experienced technocrats in shaping Kerala's development agenda.
Chandrasekhar's familiarity with the state's administrative machinery, coupled with his experience at the highest levels of the Union government, is expected to lend continuity and credibility to the Planning Board as it prepares long-term development strategies while navigating the state's fiscal challenges.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Hope this appointment brings more accountability and transparency to Kerala's planning process. The White Paper on state finances was overdue and needed an honest assessment. At 78, Chandrasekhar's experience is undeniable, but I hope the government also brings in fresh young minds to the board for innovative ideas. Balance is key.
Interesting to see a former Cabinet Secretary return to state-level planning. Chandrasekhar's work on the White Paper suggests he's serious about fiscal discipline, which Kerala desperately needs with its revenue deficits. Let's see if the Satheesan government gives him real autonomy or if his role is purely ceremonial. Actions will speak louder.
Reappointing someone who served during the Chandy government shows Satheesan's willingness to learn from past UDF successes. Chandrasekhar's experience with flagship projects like Kochi Metro is a big plus. But I worry about too much continuity - we need fresh perspectives on things like digital infrastructure and renewable energy planning. Just my two paise. 💭
Respect for Chandrasekhar's track record, but the real test is how this Planning Board addresses Kerala's unemployment issue and slows down growth. We can have all the technocrats in the world, but if the vision doesn't translate to jobs for our youth, it's all talk. Hope the board focuses on practical outcomes rather than just reports and white papers. 🙏
The White Paper on state finances was a courageous step that not many governments would take. Chandrasekhar has credibility across party lines, which is rare in today's polarized climate. I'm cautiously optimistic.
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