Kerala aims for humane and inclusive scientific growth: CM Vijayan

IANS May 18, 2025 192 views

Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is pioneering a unique approach to scientific development that prioritizes humanitarian values. During a special "Professional Connect" event, he emphasized the importance of research beyond mere knowledge generation. Vijayan critically addressed the reduced governmental funding for scientific research and the rising influence of superstition in society. His vision involves creating a progressive "Nava Kerala" through collaborative and inclusive technological advancement.

"Nava Kerala is not a distant dream - it is something we are working to realize here and now" - Pinarayi Vijayan
Thiruvananthapuram, May 17: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Saturday said the state is committed to ensuring that scientific and technological progress is rooted in humanitarian values.

Key Points

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Kerala seeks public-private scientific research partnerships

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Government challenges funding cuts and unscientific beliefs

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CM promotes inclusive technological development

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Professional dialogue drives policy innovations

He said this while delivering the inaugural address at a special interaction session with professionals held, here at the members' lounge in the State Legislative Assembly complex.

This special meeting with invited professionals is being held as part of the fourth anniversary of the second Pinarayi Vijayan government's fourth anniversary.

He has been touring all the 14 districts of the state as part of the celebrations.

Saturday's meeting was held under the banner 'Professional Connect' by the Kerala State Council for Science, Technology and Environment (KSCSTE), which saw about 600 professionals from across the state.

The Chief Minister emphasised that the state government will step up its support for scientific research and is actively exploring public-private partnerships in this sector.

"The Union Government has significantly slashed funding for scientific research. This is an unfortunate move, as research is crucial not only for generating new knowledge but also for advancing society," said Vijayan. He also raised concerns over the rising influence of superstition in society.

"It is alarming that even those holding constitutional positions are promoting unscientific beliefs. We have witnessed unscientific claims being made even at forums like the Indian Science Congress. In this context, professionals must step in to raise public awareness against such misinformation," added Vijayan.

"Nava Kerala is not a distant dream - it is something we are working to realize here and now," the Chief Minister added in his concluding remarks. Dr. V.K. Ramachandran, Vice Chairman of the State Planning Board, who delivered the keynote address, stated that no other state in India facilitates public participation in policymaking in this manner.

The insights and suggestions raised during the dialogue will be compiled into a report and submitted to the state government for further action.

Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
Kerala always leads in progressive thinking! While other states focus on divisive politics, CM Vijayan is talking about scientific temper. This is the model India needs - development with human values. Hope other CMs take note 👏
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Priya M.
Good intentions but where's the implementation? Kerala has great literacy but many STEM graduates leave for other states/countries. First create proper research facilities and jobs, then talk about partnerships. Walk the talk!
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Arjun S.
As someone from Karnataka, I'm impressed by Kerala's focus on scientific temper. The criticism of central funding cuts is valid - research shouldn't suffer due to politics. Maybe southern states should collaborate more on STEM projects?
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Sneha R.
Finally someone speaking against superstition! 😊 Whether it's blind beliefs or fake news, we need more leaders promoting rational thinking. My only suggestion - involve school children more in these science initiatives.
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Vikram J.
Public-private partnerships in research could be a game changer. But Kerala must ensure transparency - we've seen how such initiatives get politicized elsewhere. The report compilation is a good first step though.
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Meena P.
While I appreciate the vision, Kerala should first fix basic infrastructure issues. My cousin in Kochi faces daily power cuts and water problems. Science is important, but so is addressing citizens' immediate needs. Balance is key!

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Kerala Politics Pinarayi Vijayan Scientific Research Technology Policy Science and Society