Don't bank on diaspora, work unitedly: Kerala CM

Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy Thursday asked the people of the state to rise above petty politics and work unitedly because the state cannot for long be propped up by its diaspora's contribution.

"The diaspora has for long come to our succour. But the time has come for us to march ahead to achieve progress in all spheres of development. For that, we have to see that we do not waste time discussing, and instead, on this historic occasion, take a pledge that we will all be united for the progress of our state," Chandy said, during his address to the state on India's 67th Independence Day.

He was speaking after taking the salute at an impressive parade at the Central Stadium here.

"Our state's progress is directly linked to the success that our youth will achieve. And for that, we should settle our differences and see that the stage is set for their overall development. The need of the hour is that none of us should waste time organising unnecessary protests," Chandy, who only recently faced massive protests from the Left opposition, said.

Two new schemes were launched on the occasion.

Under one of these new schemes, 10,000 students from Class 8 to 12 will be selected through an online examination for the grant of a computer and study material.

The second scheme will see 500 college students grouped into 100 teams, with each team provided a tool box that will include all the basic things needed to launch a start-up firm.

For the upliftment of tribals at Attapadi in Palakkad district, from where reports were received of starvation and hunger deaths, the state government will see that all tribal children are provided free residential facilities for education. For all tribal students wishing to enter higher education, admission will be guaranteed.

"Next month, United Progressive Alliance chairperson Sonia Gandhi will inaugurate the scheme under which three cents (one acre is 100 cents) of land will be given to one lakh people," Chandy said.

"Real freedom is when we achieve financial and social freedom, and for that we should work together," Chandy said.

All 13 district headquarters also witnessed similar parades, where Chandy's cabinet colleagues took the salute.