Govt to launch Youth Challenge programme: CM

Thiruvananthapuram: Chief Minister Oommen Chandy Saturday said the state government would launch the Youth Challenge programme to encourage the young entrepreneurs.

Speaking after hoisting the national flag in the state capital, the Chief Minister said the project would be named after former President of India A.P.J Abdul Kalam.

He also announced seven-point scheme for the welfare of the people.

He also said his government's work on infrastructure projects like a smart city and a Metro rail network were nearing completion.

Chandy said major projects such as the Kochi Metro, Smart City, Kannur Airport are underway.

"Kerala is going to get a major makeover when major infrastructure projects are complete," said Chandy.

Vizhinjam Port is all set to begin construction on November 1 and the Light Metro project in Kozhikode and here has been cleared, he said.

Chandy said that in the last year of his government, they will ensure that all the projects in the final stages will be completed.

"We have launched numerous schemes in the IT sector and am proud to announce that Kerala is a complete digital state. There are going to be more schemes in this sector that are on the way," said Chandy.

He said to take care of the environment a Sustainable Development Council would be soon set up which will ensure that environmental issues are addressed when developmental projects take place.

Chandy also distributed police medals to the winners and his cabinet colleagues took the salute in the other 13 district headquarters.