Kerala plans major investment push in plantation sector Industries Minister Rajeeve

Kochi, Nov 18 (PTI) Kerala is set to attract significant investments in the plantation sector as the state government prepares to introduce a policy promoting diversification, Industries Minister P Rajeeve said on Monday.


“A study report by IIM-Kozhikode is under review, and discussions with stakeholders are ongoing. We expect large-scale investments in the plantation sector by leveraging this opportunity,” Rajeeve stated at a regional conference on plantations, high-tech farming, and value-added rubber products industries.



The roundtable, part of an ongoing series to establish Kerala as a global hub for innovative technology, aims to create a conducive ecosystem for investments.



Plantations, listed as one of 22 priority sectors under Kerala’s new industrial policy, were a key focus during the discussions held as part of preparations for the Global Investor Meet scheduled for February next year, according to an official release.



The IIM-Kozhikode report, submitted last month, recommended the introduction of tropical fruit trees of exotic varieties alongside traditional plantation crops. It also proposed a public-private partnership model to develop a Kerala brand for plantation products and promote silviculture and agroforestry.



Highlighting the state’s top position in ease of doing business rankings, Rajeeve said the K-Swift initiative, which allows businesses to start "within one minute," will simplify procedures further.
He urged industrialists to collaborate with the government to raise awareness about legislative amendments, fostering a more business-friendly environment.



Participants emphasised the importance of developing value-added industries to enhance profitability in the rubber sector.



Given that Kerala accounts for 71 per cent of India’s natural rubber production, promoting the manufacturing of value-added rubber products is essential, they observed.



Industries Department Principal Secretary A P M Mohammed Hanish presented the state’s new industrial policy at the event.



KSIDC Managing Director S Harikishore and Executive Director Hari Krishnan R were also present.



The series will culminate with the Global Investor Meet in February next year, the release added.

(This story has not been edited by THE WEEK and is auto-generated from PTI)