Former Finance Minister T.M. Thomas Isaac recently highlighted the critical role of advanced infrastructure and a more robust public transport network in enhancing women’s engagement in the workforce. Speaking at a seminar on ‘Kerala Economy and Central Policies’ during the 45th State convention of the KSRT Employees Association in Kozhikode, he noted Kerala’s women’s employment rate stands at a modest 20%, significantly below the national average of 30%, despite their higher education levels. Isaac stressed that creating a safe and accessible environment is paramount to encouraging more women to pursue careers outside the home.
Mr. Isaac further elaborated that establishing the necessary infrastructure is the logical next step for Kerala’s development, building upon its remarkable achievements in the education and health sectors. However, he voiced concerns that current Central government policies are creating a financial chokehold on the state, thereby impeding its growth. “We are grappling with a financial crisis, a direct result of low revenue and escalating expenses. Concurrently, the Centre has been partially withholding our annual financial share and restricting our ability to secure loans,” he stated, suggesting these constraints are designed to undermine the state’s progress.
The seminar also saw valuable contributions from former Minister and MLA Kadakampally Surendran and CITU district president Mampatta Sreedharan, with KSRTEA president and MLA T.P. Ramakrishnan expertly moderating the discussions.
The broader convention is scheduled to be formally inaugurated by CITU State general secretary Elamaram Kareem at MAM Jubilee Hall, Tali, on Tuesday (September 23) at 10 a.m. The delegates’ session will continue over two days, concluding on Wednesday (September 24) at 5 p.m.