Kerala Approves Rs 1,441 Crore NABARD-Funded Projects to Enhance Rural and Infrastructure Sectors?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Kochi will see improvements in rural infrastructure.
- Projects funded by NABARD enhance agricultural productivity.
- Significant allocations for solar-powered pumps and irrigation renovations.
- Focus on rehabilitation hospitals and social justice initiatives.
- Investment in fisheries infrastructure to boost local economies.
Thiruvananthapuram, Nov 8 (NationPress) The government of Kerala has granted in-principle approval for a series of infrastructure initiatives valued at Rs 1,441.24 crore under Tranche 31 of the NABARD's Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF). This initiative is designed to bolster Kerala's agricultural, irrigation, and rural infrastructure.
The funding for these infrastructure projects is being provided by the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD).
This decision was made by the High-Powered Committee, led by Chief Secretary A. Jayathilak, which evaluated project proposals against the state's normative allocation of Rs 550 crore for this tranche.
The Forest Department is set to receive Rs 159.64 crore to establish rapid response units, forest station complexes, and improve office infrastructure.
Meanwhile, the Electricity Department has been allocated Rs 199.70 crore to deploy 5,689 solar-powered pumps for farmers as part of the Agriculture Department's initiatives.
In the realm of irrigation, the Water Resources Department has been recommended Rs 176.42 crore for renovating canals linked to the Pazhassi and Karapuzha irrigation projects.
The Kerala Land Development Corporation will oversee six projects worth Rs 261 crore in Thrissur, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Ernakulam, and Malappuram districts to rejuvenate paddy fields and ponds.
The Social Justice Department has been allotted Rs 73 crore for the construction of a 250-bed rehabilitation hospital and an academic block at NIPMER. Additionally, the Agriculture Department will receive Rs 176.14 crore for 26 Smart Krishibhavans across 12 districts, infrastructure enhancements in Alappuzha's paddy clusters, and wildlife conflict mitigation efforts in Kannur.
The Department of Coastal Shipping and Inland Navigation has secured Rs 217 crore for new boat jetties at Mayyil and Mullakodi, along with six bridges spanning the TS Canal.
The Kerala State Warehousing Corporation will construct modern storage facilities with Rs 44.92 crore, while the Kerala Agro Machinery Corporation will upgrade its infrastructure to enhance Vajra 120 power tiller production with Rs 36.45 crore.
The Local Self-Government Department has been allocated Rs 165 crore for liquid waste management and road restoration projects, while the Soil Survey Department will conduct soil conservation initiatives costing Rs 69.46 crore.
Moreover, Rs 243 crore worth of fisheries infrastructure projects, including upgrades to harbors at Chellanam, Cheruvathur, and Manjeshwaram, will be undertaken under the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) at concessional interest rates.