Partner Kerala an 'innovative model, says Vayalar Ravi

Describing the Partner Kerala Meet as an 'innovative model' Union Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi today said it could be replicated elsewhere in the country.
The two-day meet would help corporations, municipalities and development authorities attract investments for the infrastructure projects that could benefit people.
"This Meet is a new platform for the local bodies to find funds for the development projects. The rest of the country can follow this model to develop urban centres," he said, inaugurating the 'Partner Kerala' urban development meet organised by Department of Urban Affairs (DUA) here.
The Meet was a bold attempt to attract local investors to partner with the government, he said, adding it is a good opportunity for local investors to be part of nation building and also ensures good returns for investors, he said.

Kerala Urban Affairs minister, Manjalamkuzhi Ali said the government would ensure that investments by private players in projects would be safe. "Though we are committed to ensure that investors get good returns for their investments, not a single piece of government land will be given to private players," he said.
The government devised the Meet as the Public Private Partnership (PPP) was the best model to develop assets lying with local bodies. "We are considering launching a new department to oversee proper implementation of PPP projects. The infrastructure projects required for each local body will be finalised only after consultations with respective municipal councils," the Minister added.

Earlier, in the introductory session, presenting a paper on PPP in local self-governments, E K Prakash,Special Secretary to Finance Department, said Kerala's economic indicators such as purchasing power were strong enough to attract investments.
The government was seeking private partnership in projects which were in the best interest of the public. "The ultimate aim of the government is to improve the quality of life of people in Kerala," he added.