As Kerala marks 75 years since its formation, the State is setting its sight on the future with an ambitious “Vision 2031” initiative. The project will feature a series of seminars across 33 thematic sectors to evaluate progress and shape a roadmap for a developed and progressive Kerala by 2031, Higher Education and Social Justice Minister R. Bindu said.
The first seminar, focussing on social justice and equity in a developed new Kerala, will be held on October 3 at the Regional Theatre in Thrissur.
“Vision 2031 is about shaping Kerala into a fully developed and inclusive State by 2031,” the Minister said.
The inaugural seminar coincides with the golden jubilee celebrations of the Social Justice department. Afternoon sessions at the same venue will include the State-level Elders’ Day celebration, a gathering of senior citizens, award presentations, and cultural programmes.
Welfare schemes
The day begins with registration followed by a presentation from Social Justice department Special Secretary Adeela Abdullah, who will review major welfare schemes implemented over the last decade. Dr. Bindu will then present the Vision 2031 document for social justice, outlining a roadmap for the future.
Five parallel panel discussions will follow, engaging national and international experts on elderly welfare, disability, transgender rights, probation, and educational-welfare institutions. Recommendations from each session will be consolidated in a public session chaired by the Minister. Around 600 delegates, including subject experts, officials, people’s representatives, and observers, will attend.
“It was women, children, and marginalised groups who were at the core of the department’s mission when it was formed in 1975. From social welfare to social justice, the department has always stood for dignity and equity,” Dr. Bindu noted. “The golden jubilee will not just be a celebration of the past, but also a launchpad for new initiatives.”
Golden jubilee celebrations
As part of the jubilee year, the department is set to launch a string of flagship programmes including vocational training for intellectually challenged persons, sports scheme supporting differently-abled athletes, a one-stop online registration platform for disability sector institutions, and short-stay centres offering relief for caregivers of persons with disabilities. The official launch of the campaign will take place on October 3 itself.
The State-level Elders’ Day awards will be presented. Actor Sheela and singer P.K. Medini will be honoured with lifetime achievement awards, while Amaravila Ramakrishnan, member of the State Senior Citizens’ Commission, will be specially felicitated for his contribution. Eleven other awardees across different categories will also be recognised.
Published – September 28, 2025 05:07 pm IST
