Kerala's central tax share has halved from 10th to 15th Finance Commission

Kerala Chief Minister PINARAYI VIJAYAN says his government is committed to translating investment intentions in the recently concluded investment summit into reality. He tells Indivjal Dhasmana in an email interview that the Centre has double standards in dealing with borrowings of certain agencies in the state and those at the Centre as sovereign debt. He talks of the investment ecosystem in the state, the Vizhinjam port, women's safety, and the prospects of the Left Front in the next Assembly elections. Edited excerpts:

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How much of the expressions of interest (EoIs) received at the recent Invest Kerala Global Summit could translate into actual investments?

A key highlight of the Invest Kerala Global Summit 2025 was the overwhelming investor response, with over 410 EoIs amounting to ₹1.65 trillion in potential investments. This surpasses previously reported figures, demonstrating strong industry confidence in Kerala's investment ecosystem. While EoIs signify strong investment interest, the state is actively working to maximize their conversion into actual investments. Through proactive policy measures, streamlined clearances, and dedicated investor facilitation, Kerala is committed to translating these commitments into tangible economic growth.

Communists are known worldwide for their stance against businesses. How is your Left Front government working to shed this image?

I'm afraid you're wrong. We have been at the forefront of enabling both public and private businesses to flourish, so that the society and the economy as a whole benefit.

It is important to note that ours is not a socialist country and we operate within the framework of a Constitution that upholds a mixed economy. Staying true to that spirit, we do not see industry as either private or public—it is both. We are fostering an environment where both the private and public sectors can flourish. Here, the private sector thrives not at the expense of the public sector, which is being dismantled at the national level as the Union government vigorously pursues a policy of intensified liberalization.

You may recall that KELTRON, India's first electronics manufacturing company, was set up in Kerala. The same KELTRON, along with several MSMEs registered in Kerala, played a role in the success of the Chandrayaan mission. I don't have to underscore what a proud moment it was for our nation.