Thaindian News

Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 26 (IANS) Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy got the rare opportunity to take the Republic Day parade salute here Thursday, as Governor M.O.H. Farook was on medical leave.

H.R. Bhardwaj who is holding charge in the absence of Farook could not come down here as he is the governor of Karnataka.

Chandy hoisted the national flag at the Central Stadium here.

“The total plan outlay for the Twelfth Five Year Plan period is more than Rs.1.50 lakh crore and this will certainly propel our state into newer realms of development. Our aim is to see that this takes place in a timebound manner and also in a transparent way by taking into confidence all,” said Chandy.

“Even as we talk of the proposed Smart City Kochi, IT project which will provide one lakh new jobs, we are equally serious on our efforts to uplift the beleaguered fishing community. Both these programmes would get equal importance,” said Chandy.

Chandy pointed out that despite keeping the secular flag flying high, it was most unfortunate that there had been efforts in some quarters “to dilute the secular principles of our state”.

“It is best that those who did this correct themselves and if that does not happen, then the people of our state will take up that effort,” said Chandy.

On the Mullaperiyar Dam issue that has caused heartburn in relations between Tamil Nadu and Kerala, Chandy emphasised that his government’s stand remains the same - which is safety for Kerala and water for Tamil Nadu.

“We are confident that through talks we will be able to find a solution and maintain cordial relations between the two states,” said Chandy.

Chandy’s cabinet colleagues took the salute at similar parades held in 13 other district headquarters of the state.