Kasaragod, Kerala: The state government has revived the ‘Make in Kerala’ initiative, which was announced earlier to transform Kerala into a manufacturing hub. 

The project seeks to leverage the state’s high literacy, skilled workforce and strong human resource base to boost domestic production, generate employment, promote entrepreneurship and attract investments. It was originally announced in the FY 2023–24 state budget, drawing inspiration from the Centre’s ‘Make in India’ programme.

Also read | Kerala court chaos: Assam man escapes minutes before 23-year POCSO sentence

The Finance Minister had then stated that an additional ₹1,000 crore would be allocated for the scheme during the project period, with ₹100 crore earmarked for FY 2023–24. However, no separate fund was created at the time, and the proposal remained largely on paper.

Subsequently, the Finance Department cleared follow-up action, and guidelines were prepared to implement various components of the scheme. The plan was to redeploy staff without additional financial burden through the restructuring of responsibilities. A budget head and token allocation were later approved, but the project saw no further progress.

The Industries Department has now decided to move forward with the initiative.

Also read | Kerala-made premium brandy set for launch on Feb 21; brand name still under wraps

Focus sectors

Priority will be given to agricultural value-added startups, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and the 22 thrust sectors identified in the state’s industrial policy.

Entrepreneurs will be offered interest subsidies, capital support, technical training and branding assistance. Kerala-made products will be globally promoted under a ‘Made in Kerala’ brand.

An implementation plan will be prepared jointly by the Industries Department and other concerned departments.

Also read | Meet the Kerala-made robots turning heads at India AI Impact Expo 2026

Trade deficit concern

A study by the Centre for Development Studies (2021–22) found that goods worth ₹1.28 lakh crore flowed into Kerala from outside, with 92 per cent coming from other states.

During the same period, Kerala exported goods worth ₹74,000 crore, 70 per cent of which went to other states.

The study highlighted the state’s high trade deficit. The ‘Make in Kerala’ initiative aims to identify products currently imported but capable of being manufactured locally and promote their production within the state.