During a virtual event at the S.K. Pottekkatt Cultural Centre, Minister for Forests and Wildlife A.K. Saseendran officially announced Kozhikode as a district entirely free from extreme poverty. He also confirmed the successful conclusion of the ‘Oru Thai Nadam’ campaign throughout the district.
This remarkable achievement stems from a comprehensive survey conducted in 2021-22, which initially identified 6,773 extremely poor families within the district. Through the coordinated efforts of local bodies and various support agencies, these families received crucial aid. Specifically, 1,816 families were provided with essential food supplies, while 4,775 individuals gained access to vital medical assistance. Additionally, 579 families benefited from the palliative care services offered by local authorities, and 73 individuals received necessary health support equipment. Beyond immediate relief, sustainable livelihoods were secured for 513 families, and safe housing was provided to 2,050 families.
Every local body within Kozhikode has now proudly declared its area free of extreme poverty. The statewide declaration, marking this significant milestone for Kerala, is anticipated to be made by the Chief Minister in Thiruvananthapuram on November 1. Across the entire state, a total of 64,006 families had been identified as living in extreme poverty.
The event was presided over by MLA Ahammad Devarkovil. During the proceedings, P. Gavas, Vice-President of the Kozhikode district panchayat, launched the Water Budget for the Kozhikode Corporation. He also formally announced the successful completion of the ‘Pacha Thuruthu’ environmental project in the district and recognized individuals for their outstanding contributions to the Haritha Keralam Mission.
Further highlighting environmental efforts, V.P. Jameela, Standing Committee Chairperson of the district panchayat, unveiled the comprehensive Water Budget for the entire district. Following this, Manoj P. Samuel, Executive Director of the Centre for Water Resources Development and Management (CWRDM), presented the official report on the Haritha Keralam Mission.