Kerala Approves Rs 1,441 Cr Infrastructure Projects under NABARD RIDF Tranche 31 Breakthrough

Kerala’s recent approval of ₹1,441.24 crore for infrastructure projects under NABARD’s RIDF Tranche 31 marks a significant step towards enhancing the state’s rural and urban infrastructure. This initiative, sanctioned by a high-powered committee led by the Chief Secretary, aims to address critical sectors such as agriculture, irrigation, forest management, fisheries, and municipal waste management The agriculture sector receives a substantial boost with ₹176.14 crore allocated for the establishment of 26 Smart Krishi Bhavans across 12 districts. These centers are designed to provide farmers with access to modern agricultural practices and technologies.

Additionally, ₹261 crore is sanctioned to the Kerala Land Development Corporation for the renovation and development of paddy fields and ponds in districts like Thrissur, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Ernakulam, and Malappuram. These initiatives aim to improve agricultural productivity and water management in the state The Forest Department is allocated ₹159.64 crore for projects that include setting up rapid response units, constructing forest station complexes, and upgrading forest office infrastructure. These measures are intended to enhance forest management and conservation efforts across Kerala In a move towards sustainable energy.

Kerala Fisheries and Coastal Infrastructure

The Electricity Department receives ₹199.70 crore to install 5,689 solar pumps for agricultural beneficiaries. This initiative aims to reduce dependency on conventional energy sources and promote the use of renewable energy in farming practices. The Fisheries and Port Engineering (Nabard) departments are granted ₹243 crore for the renovation of fishing harbors at Helaman, Chitravathi, and Mangeshkar, upgrading the Azhikode fish landing center to a fishing harbour, and constructing the Massaged net factory. These projects are expected to enhance the livelihoods of fishermen and improve coastal infrastructure in the state.

The Local Self-Government Department is allocated ₹165 crore for projects under the Comprehensive Municipal Liquid Waste Management and Road Restoration Project. These initiatives aim to improve urban infrastructure and sanitation facilities across Kerala The projects are implemented through Local Self Government Institutions, with works arranged by tender. Beneficiary Committees are not relied upon for execution, ensuring transparency and efficiency in project implementation. The Integrated Rural Technology Centre (IRTC) plays a significant role in providing consultancy support and preparing Detailed Project Reports for various developmental programs.

In conclusion, the approval of ₹1,441.24 crore for infrastructure projects under NABARD’s RIDF Tranche 31 is a comprehensive effort by the Kerala government to enhance rural (Dhaula) and urban infrastructure. By focusing on sectors like agriculture, renewable energy, forest conservation, fisheries, and municipal development, Kerala aims to promote sustainable development and improve the quality of life for its residents.

Q1. What is NABARD’s RIDF?
The Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) is a scheme by NABARD to finance rural infrastructure projects in India.

Q2. How much has Kerala approved under RIDF Tranche 31?
Kerala has approved ₹1,441.24 crore for various infrastructure projects under RIDF Tranche 31.

Q3. Which sectors are covered by these projects?
The projects span sectors like agriculture, irrigation, forest management, fisheries, and municipal waste management.

Q4. Who sanctioned these projects?
A high-powered committee chaired by Kerala’s Chief Secretary granted in-principle approval for these projects.

Q5. What are the expected outcomes?
The projects aim to improve rural and urban infrastructure, enhance agricultural productivity, and promote sustainable development across Kerala.