Kochi, Jan 17: The collective efforts of various government departments, along with a healthy sense of competition among them, have boosted Kerala to the forefront of the Ease of Doing Business index, stated Minister for Local Self-Government and Excise, M.B. Rajesh. He was speaking while inaugurating a seminar on “Practical Implementation and Governance of Ease of Doing Business at the Grassroots Level” at the India International Industrial Expo, held at the Adlux International Convention Centre, Kochi. The Minister added that the Local Self-Government Department has played a significant role in achieving this milestone.
“It is a matter of great pride that we have been able to resolve the majority of suggestions and issues previously raised regarding changes needed in local bodies. To eliminate delays in obtaining licenses, applications like K-SMART and K-SWIFT have been introduced. Furthermore, comprehensive amendments to municipal and building construction rules have implemented to further support industries. The government’s goal is to leverage our progress in Ease of Doing Business to ultimately make Kerala a leader in Ease of Living,” the Minister said.
P. Rajeev, the Minister for Industries, Law, and Coir, also visited the venue to witness the expo. After visiting all the stalls in detail and interacting with the entrepreneurs, the Minister praised the organizers of the expo. He added that the India International Industrial Expo is an excellent exhibition that highlights the industry-friendly environment in Kerala and provides a platform for entrepreneurs to achieve growth.
The Industrial Expo organized by the Kerala State Small Industries Association (KSSIA) and Metromart, in collaboration with the Kerala Industries Department and the Union Ministry of MSME concludes today (18th Juan). At the closing ceremony, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will inaugurate the Industrial Mega Summit expected to be attended by over 10,000 KSSIA members from all 14 districts of Kerala.
Priyanka. G. IAS, District Collector, Ernakulam, Additional Directors such as C.S. Simi, G. Rajeev were present. P. Vishnuraj IAS, Director of the Industries Department and Managing Director of KSIDC, also visited the expo.
Media Conclave; Business in the age of New Media
The Media Conclave, held under the theme “From Visibility to Credibility: How Media Shapes Business Success,” highlighted the evolving synergy between Kerala’s industrial sector and the media.
The panellists emphasized that while the media has historically made a conscious effort to support startups, the digital revolution has fundamentally shifted the landscape. By removing traditional constraints of time and space, online platforms now offer entrepreneurs a global stage. The discussion further highlighted that achieving long-term sustainability requires a shift in how businesses communicate their value. Panelists recommended that ventures move beyond conventional narratives in favour of creative storytelling to differentiate themselves in a market. As discussed during the sessions, the goal is to ensure that the state’s industrial toward greater credibility and long-term sustainability.
A.P.M. Mohammed Hanish IAS, Addl. Chief Secretary, R. Roshan, Head of Business News at Mathrubhumi, Manoj Mathew, Assistant Editor at Malayala Manorama and P. G. Suja, News Editor Digital at Reporter TV were part of the panel.
Photo Caption: Minister for Local Self-Government and Excise, M.B. Rajesh speaking while inaugurating the seminar on “Practical Implementation and Governance of Ease of Doing Business at the Grassroots Level” at the India International Industrial Expo.
