CM seeks cooperation in rebuilding flood-hit Kerala

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan Thursday sought the cooperation of all in rebuilding the state after the devastation caused by the worst floods it faced in 100 years.

In a Facebook Post, Vijayan extended his greetings to the people on the 62nd state formation day, and said Keralites had survived the first major flood after its formation in 1956 and together the people would present before the world a new development model in rebuilding the state.

The state of Kerala was formed on November 1, 1956 by integrating erstwhile Malabar, under British rule during the colonial era, with the princely states of Travancore and Cochin.

"Together we survived the flood, and together we will rebuild our land. With the firm conviction that Kerala belongs to all of us, let us come together hand-in-hand for a new Kerala," Vijayan said.

Kerala had witnessed widespread destruction when floods ravaged the state in August this year. More than 400 people had lost their lives and several houses destroyed in the unprecedented deluge.

"We owe our growth to the foundation of fraternity and unity built by those who walked before us. We should take a pledge not to lose the same. With this unity, we can build a new Kerala," the chief minister said.

State finance minister Thomas Isaac said from being a "backward state" with low per capita income and growth in 1956, the state today records the lowest poverty ratio and highest quality of life.

"November 1st 1956 was a backward state with low per capita income, consumption, savings and growth But today they're much above national average.

It has lowest poverty ratio and highest quality of life. That's growth with equity- the Kerala Model," Isaac tweeted.