Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala is actively considering extending Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) reservations to the private sector, according to its latest progress report released in conjunction with the second Pinarayi Vijayan government's fourth anniversary celebrations.

The comprehensive report outlines the government’s achievements over the past four years, reaffirming its commitment to key development initiatives, including the controversial SilverLine semi-high-speed rail project. Despite ongoing opposition, the report states there will be no stepping back on SilverLine, with further proceedings to follow final clearance from Indian Railways. The Detailed Project Report is currently under review by the Railway Board.

Interestingly, the report confirms the implementation of a Public Service Commission (PSC)-like reservation model for teaching and non-teaching appointments in Devaswom Board educational institutions. Furthermore, the government reiterated its intent to consider granting Scheduled Caste benefits to Dalit Christians, based on the findings of the K.G. Balakrishnan Commission.

On the infrastructure front, projects worth ₹12,500 crore under the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) are expected to be completed by December this year.

Kerala’s start-up ecosystem has seen remarkable growth since 2016, increasing from 300 ventures to 6,400, attracting ₹5,983 crore in investments and creating 64,000 job opportunities. The government now aims to boost these numbers to 15,000 start-ups and 100,000 jobs by next year. Additionally, 353,000 new enterprises have reportedly been established, drawing in ₹26,888 crore in investments and generating 7.5 lakh employment opportunities.

Under the LIFE Mission housing scheme, the state has ensured the construction of 450,000 homes. The government also claims to have distributed 400,956 land titles so far. Educational reforms include guaranteeing 200 working days and 1,000 hours of instruction per academic year in schools. Agriculture has been incorporated into the school curriculum as part of the effort to build awareness and engagement in food production.

The government asserts that, beyond fulfilling the 900 promises made in its election manifesto, numerous additional initiatives have also been undertaken, underlining its commitment to comprehensive development across the state.