Nava Kerala March concludes at Shankhummukham beach in Trivandrum after completing 24 days tour of the entire state of Kerala. This march was organised as part of the February campaign decided by the party central committee. The march, lead by the state secretary, managed by E P Jayarajan and participated by A Vijayaraghavan, M V Govindan, T N Seema and K T Jaaleel as members was inaugurated at Mancheswaram Uppala in Kasaragod district by P B Member S Ramachandran Pillai on 2nd of February. On 14th February, when the state secretary left for Delhi to participate in the P B meeting, E P Jayarajan lead the march. No body will have any doubt over the fact that the march which created a platform for heated political discussion, putting forward the slogan of “Aiswarya Keralam” (“Prosperous Keralam”), has turned out to be the biggest ever peoples movement. When the march ends touring all the 140 assembly segments from Kasaragod to Trivandrum, even the opponents will have to admit that there is no body to excel and no body to counter the party of its influence over the people.
One of the major slogan we are raising in this march is in continuation of the efforts to create a prosperous Keralam, initiated by the communist party decades back. It was communist party which was elected to lead the “Aikya Keralam” in 1957. The foundation for the present advancement of Kerala was the reforms initiated and brought about by that government lead by E M S. Today Kerala is facing new and almost severe challenges. Kerala has to effectively face the challenges from those arising out of global financial crisis to the retarded development caused by the neglect of the central government. The approach of the CPI(M) is to work for the creation of a new Kerala facing these challenges. LDF government is moving in this direction. The effective interventions of the government has created considerable appreciation among the people. Therefore, the UDF sitting in the opposition and all the anti-communist camps have adopted the policy of obstructing this advancement.
Those who are disheartened by the welfare measures of the government and those who are intolerant to the interventions of CPI(M) are trying to obstruct the progress of the state in different ways. The very same forces that organised the “liberation struggle” to sabotage the 1957 government is repeating the same in different outfits. Though Congres lead governments have come to power on many occassions, they did not bring any legislation that contributed to fast development of Kerala. On the contrary, efforts of Congress and their allies, every time they were in opposition, was to disrupt the reforms being brought about by the left lead governments. When ever they came to power, they have gone ahead with programs negating the achievements of the state. They are still continuing with their distructive programs. Due and eligible share of central assistance is essential for the advancement of the state government to tide over the problems arising out of globalisation. When LDF government is trying to formulate alternate policy frame work that protects the interest of the people, that too is sought to be disrupted by the UDF. The wonderful stand and the written demand of KPCC that even the available share of central taxes is not required is continuation of the policy UDF has ever been following. Bulk of those NRIs who return helpless on loss of job due to the global financial crisis are Malayalee. When the demand for intervention to protect them was raised, the stand taken by the Minister for Pravasi affairs was that it cannot be taken for Kerala alone. In continuation of the last railway budget, this one also totally neglected Kerala.
Due and eligible central assistance is a must for the advancement Kerala. The situation is not conducive for that. While UPA was in power with the support of the left, the demands could be raised effectively and got them conceded to a great extend. It was because of the decisive influence of the left that the central government was compelled to progressive legislation like employment gurantee scheme. It was the left which prevented the UPA from selling of PSUs, unmindful privatisation, foreign policy service imperialist interests etc. But, when UPA decided to sign the Nuclear Co-operation Agreement surrendering to the US dictates, the left withdrew its support and with that they started implementing all the anti-people policies they could not pursue till that time. Congress is against the people. Appeasing the communal forces for coming to power is its policy. The current threat from communalism and terrorism is the effect of that policy as well. Because of that, it is the CPI(M) view on how Kerala has to cast its vote in the next loksabha elections that is placed before the people through the slogans “Secure India and Prosperous Keralam”.
It is proved that the people of Kerala are whole heartedly supporting the slogans raised by the CPI(M) through their enthusiasm and unprecedented massive participation in greeting the Nava Kerala March. The historic success of this march is also a fitting reply to the unholy alliance attacking the consistent policies of the CPI(M) with false allegations and conspiracy. The people who enthusiastically assembled in lakhs to greet the march through out its route declared that Kerala is with the red flag of CPI(M) and not with those false allegations raised by the reactionary forces. The success of this march is the success of the people of Kerala. Thanks to all those who participated in this great march forward. The experience of this march gives the energy and enthusiasm for the future struggles and actions.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Traditional industrial sector will be protected.
Nava Kerala March has entered the headquarters district after touring all the other 13 districts of Kerala. On Monday the march has toured areas thickly populated with workers of traditional industries. Each out of 13 receptions in Quilon and Trivandrum districts could only be described as extra ordinary. The people are reaching the reception centres realising that each of the problems raised in the march is relevant and important. Most of them are poor, workers. Cashew industry is important among the traditional industries. Out of the Rs. 2455 crores earned by India out of cashew exports, Rs. 1505 crores is the share of Kerala. That comes to 61%. While providing employment for lakhs, this sector plays an important role in earning foreign exchange for the nation. There are about 800 cashew factories spread over the entire district of Quilon and the adjoining areas of northern part of Trivandrum, western part of Pathanamthitta and southern part of Alleppey. This industry provides the lively hood for 2.5 lakh workers and about 7 lakhs people dependent on them.
UDF government has taken a stand of destroying such industries as part of the globalisation policies. They did not care for the cashew industry. They closed down government owned cashew development corporation. Helped the private factory owners. Denied due right to the workers. Minimum wages were not revised even after the due date. Factory owners were given protection to violate labour laws. Factory owners were allowed to deny the rights to the workers through commission system.
As soon as LDF came to power, immediate creative measures were taken to protect the cashew sector. Cashew special office was re-established with Quilon as its headquarters. Public sector units under cashew development corporation and CAPEX could generate more labour days. Cashew corporation has marketed few new value added products through diversification. Rs. 6 crores were given for distributing the arrears of gratuity. Kerala State Agency for the Expansion of Cultivation of Cashew was established for solving the problem of shortage of raw cashew. Cashew plantation could be expanded to more areas.
Cashew industry is about to face more problems during the period of global crisis. Bulk of the cashew export is to the US market. A revenue of Rs. 969.51 crores were received from US market alone during 2006-07. The net revenue from this sector is Rs. 2455.17 crores. That means 39% of export is to the US market. Cashew export was adversely affected due to the extension of payment period from 30 days to 120 days by the US supermarkets and reduction of credit limit by the US banks in the background of global financial crisis. American traders are not paying for the orders already taken. Cashew remains unsold as the American middle class is compelled to curtail their daily needs. No new orders are received from America. The crisis will aggravate as the purchasing power of Americans comes down further.
Whole hearted assistance of the Central Government is required for this industry. Important among them is the establishment of cashew board. The production of cashew nuts can only be increased through that. Production of cashew nuts in Kerala has fallen to 55,000 tonnes from 1,50,000 tonnes produced earlier. Kerala, which was first in the production of cashew earlier is on the 5th position now. The Central Government has agreed in principle and the commercial department has prepared and submitted the note that cashew board may be established with Quilon as headquarters so that it is useful for the development of cashew farming and industry. It is not yet implemented due to the differences among the various departments at the centre. State government and various trade unions have submitted many representations in this respect. The Central Government shall be prepared to implement this unanimous proposal of traders, workers and farmers, at the earliest.
Curtailing the benefits to the workers is the specialty of the globalisation policy. The scrapping of PF pension scheme in cashew sector also is part of this agenda. Central Government has issued orders curtailing the PF pension benefits of workers. Though the orders are withheld in the face of widespread strong protest from the workers, the same has not been cancelled. The pension to those who retire early due to ill health etc is sought to be curtailed proportionately. All these cannot be agreed to.
Central Government is withdrawing from the responsiblity of protecting the traditional industrial sectors and the socially weaker sections of the people. Kerala government is implementing alternate set of policies to globalisation as part of which such withdrawal of social security measures are resorted to. In these days when pension welfare fund is being curtailed by the central government, Kerala government is taking measures to increase them. The transferring of all liabilities onto the shoulders of the poor and curtailing of all welfare measures has to be defeated. Nation wide struggles have to be strengthened. The love and affection to the movement which help and stand by them was visible in the receptions organised by the workers.
UDF government has taken a stand of destroying such industries as part of the globalisation policies. They did not care for the cashew industry. They closed down government owned cashew development corporation. Helped the private factory owners. Denied due right to the workers. Minimum wages were not revised even after the due date. Factory owners were given protection to violate labour laws. Factory owners were allowed to deny the rights to the workers through commission system.
As soon as LDF came to power, immediate creative measures were taken to protect the cashew sector. Cashew special office was re-established with Quilon as its headquarters. Public sector units under cashew development corporation and CAPEX could generate more labour days. Cashew corporation has marketed few new value added products through diversification. Rs. 6 crores were given for distributing the arrears of gratuity. Kerala State Agency for the Expansion of Cultivation of Cashew was established for solving the problem of shortage of raw cashew. Cashew plantation could be expanded to more areas.
Cashew industry is about to face more problems during the period of global crisis. Bulk of the cashew export is to the US market. A revenue of Rs. 969.51 crores were received from US market alone during 2006-07. The net revenue from this sector is Rs. 2455.17 crores. That means 39% of export is to the US market. Cashew export was adversely affected due to the extension of payment period from 30 days to 120 days by the US supermarkets and reduction of credit limit by the US banks in the background of global financial crisis. American traders are not paying for the orders already taken. Cashew remains unsold as the American middle class is compelled to curtail their daily needs. No new orders are received from America. The crisis will aggravate as the purchasing power of Americans comes down further.
Whole hearted assistance of the Central Government is required for this industry. Important among them is the establishment of cashew board. The production of cashew nuts can only be increased through that. Production of cashew nuts in Kerala has fallen to 55,000 tonnes from 1,50,000 tonnes produced earlier. Kerala, which was first in the production of cashew earlier is on the 5th position now. The Central Government has agreed in principle and the commercial department has prepared and submitted the note that cashew board may be established with Quilon as headquarters so that it is useful for the development of cashew farming and industry. It is not yet implemented due to the differences among the various departments at the centre. State government and various trade unions have submitted many representations in this respect. The Central Government shall be prepared to implement this unanimous proposal of traders, workers and farmers, at the earliest.
Curtailing the benefits to the workers is the specialty of the globalisation policy. The scrapping of PF pension scheme in cashew sector also is part of this agenda. Central Government has issued orders curtailing the PF pension benefits of workers. Though the orders are withheld in the face of widespread strong protest from the workers, the same has not been cancelled. The pension to those who retire early due to ill health etc is sought to be curtailed proportionately. All these cannot be agreed to.
Central Government is withdrawing from the responsiblity of protecting the traditional industrial sectors and the socially weaker sections of the people. Kerala government is implementing alternate set of policies to globalisation as part of which such withdrawal of social security measures are resorted to. In these days when pension welfare fund is being curtailed by the central government, Kerala government is taking measures to increase them. The transferring of all liabilities onto the shoulders of the poor and curtailing of all welfare measures has to be defeated. Nation wide struggles have to be strengthened. The love and affection to the movement which help and stand by them was visible in the receptions organised by the workers.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Support from Scheduled castes and tribes.
A considerable section of those who participated in the reception meeting at Mananthavady in Wynad district were Adivasi. Scheduled castes and and tribes including Adivasi with their traditional dress and art forms have participated all through the march. The sentiments with which they came forward was that red flag and the communist movement is their only savior. Though there are rules and provisions in the constitution regarding the security of dalit sections of the people, they do not reflect in the social life in India. Their problems cannot be solved by formal legal provisions of security alone. On the contrary, social intervention is much important. The large scale reception to the Nava Kerala March in the areas thickly populated by scheduled castes and tribes reveals that the actions and intervention of the CPI(M) with this understanding has brought much changes.
According to the 2001 census, the population of scheduled tribes in the state is 3,64,189. There are 80,000 schedule tribe families spread over 4082 colonies or localities. Out of these 25,000 families are not having house to live in. 20,000 are having no land. 2039 colonies are to be electrified and 1065 are to be provided with drinking water. Number of scheduled castes in the state is 31,23,941 as per the 2001 census. Out of these 53,833 are homeless and 45362 are landless. They are unable to reach the level of the mainstream even in literacy. It is to be identified that it is the scheduled tribes who constitute 94% of those who still continue to be illiterate in the state which has attained total literacy.
It is doubtful whether the scheduled castes and tribes could be provided with land due to them despite the land reforms and ending the feudalism. Even after implementation of land reforms, the situation is such that the adivasi sections are not having any right over the land they hold. This happened due to the controls over the transfer of forest land where they are living. The new central legislation on Forest land is a solution for this problem. As part of this act it is in Kerala that the land distribution is taken up first.
The ownership of land among scheduled sections are continuing to be nominal. Only 3% among the scheduled sections are classified as farmers. The average holding of land among them is only 9 cents. Dalits whose entire family members happened to be cultivating the land held by the feudal land lord for generations were denied the right to the land they cultivated as they were considered as mere occupants and not included in the purview of tenants having right to cultivate the land in the land reform act. When the tenants who were middlemen became owners of land the scheduled sections continued to be agricultural labourers. Today even their identity as agricultural workers is being lost. The present situation in which scheduled caste and tribes are being tied up to the agricultural and agricultural related sectors considerably affects their social mobility. The ruin of traditional sectors and the lack of corresponding opening up of job opportunities in new areas creates much hurdles to the social advancement of these schections.
The intervention of CPI(M) is taking into account all these factors. As part of this the LDF government is showing special interest and enthusiasm in this area. The government has given high priority for solving the housing problem faced by SC and ST people. Around 25,000 houses could be completed and distributed among these sections, during the last two years. Special scheme for housing for scheduled castes is being implemented. The assistance for purchase of land has been raised from Rs. 25,000 to Rs.45,000 in panchayath areas, from Rs.27,500 to Rs.50,000 in municipal areas and from Rs.30,000 to Rs.60,000 in corporation areas.
In Kerala child centric curriculum development program was implemented in the year 1998. This has contributed to bring about much improvement in the academic level among the children of scheduled sections. It was able to achieve the level of 28,000 students reaching the 10th standard out of the 30,000 who joined the 1st standard. When the percentage of success in the last SSLC exam was raised to 92.6, students of scheduled castes and tribes were the one who benefited maximum. It was able to correct the notion that the students of these sections are destined to fail and cultivate confidence in them that they too can pass the school exam and avail higher education. Arreas of educational assistance of Rs. 44 Crores accumulated by the previous UDF government was cleared and is, now, being paid at the begining of the current year itself. Educational allowances of students of scheduled sections was increased by 50%, now, after a period of 6 years.
Almost all the traditional industries, in which scheduled sections are engaged, are in crisis due to the market centric policies. But the renovation of many scheduled caste and scheduled tribe co-operatives have been taken up by the government as a policy. Through this the scheduled castes and scheduled tribes in these areas could be ensured work. Special batches for scheduled caste and scheduled tribe students have been started in 12 ITIs in addition to the 41 ITCs under the control of SC-ST welfare department to improve the trade expertise among these students. Scheme for making available farming land has been introduced. Action is being taken to make available atleast 25% of the surplus land to the scheduled sections.
Comprehensive health care scheme has been introduced at a cost of Rs. 10 crores for scheduled sections to have free treatment right from primary health centres to super specialist hospitals including the medical colleges. Care has been taken to extend basic amenities in the colonies. 86% of houses are electrified in Kerala.
Government has intervened to distribute land for Adivasi. Already land has been distributed to around 10,000. Action for making available eligible share of participation and resources to scheduled sections have been taken as part of peoples plan campaign program.
The state scheduled caste convention was a great success. LDF government is duty bound to implement the demands adopted in that convention. Majority of the scheduled people have experienced that the words of CPI(M) are not some thing to eyewash them, but out of firm and clear commitment. As a sequel to this realisation, people, including those who were mislead and in the traps of vested interest groups, are aligning with the CPI(M). They are not merely greeting the march, but are coming forwarded dedicated to the party. The success of Nava Kerala March is also the proof of the support from the scheduled castes and tribes with new enthusiasm.
According to the 2001 census, the population of scheduled tribes in the state is 3,64,189. There are 80,000 schedule tribe families spread over 4082 colonies or localities. Out of these 25,000 families are not having house to live in. 20,000 are having no land. 2039 colonies are to be electrified and 1065 are to be provided with drinking water. Number of scheduled castes in the state is 31,23,941 as per the 2001 census. Out of these 53,833 are homeless and 45362 are landless. They are unable to reach the level of the mainstream even in literacy. It is to be identified that it is the scheduled tribes who constitute 94% of those who still continue to be illiterate in the state which has attained total literacy.
It is doubtful whether the scheduled castes and tribes could be provided with land due to them despite the land reforms and ending the feudalism. Even after implementation of land reforms, the situation is such that the adivasi sections are not having any right over the land they hold. This happened due to the controls over the transfer of forest land where they are living. The new central legislation on Forest land is a solution for this problem. As part of this act it is in Kerala that the land distribution is taken up first.
The ownership of land among scheduled sections are continuing to be nominal. Only 3% among the scheduled sections are classified as farmers. The average holding of land among them is only 9 cents. Dalits whose entire family members happened to be cultivating the land held by the feudal land lord for generations were denied the right to the land they cultivated as they were considered as mere occupants and not included in the purview of tenants having right to cultivate the land in the land reform act. When the tenants who were middlemen became owners of land the scheduled sections continued to be agricultural labourers. Today even their identity as agricultural workers is being lost. The present situation in which scheduled caste and tribes are being tied up to the agricultural and agricultural related sectors considerably affects their social mobility. The ruin of traditional sectors and the lack of corresponding opening up of job opportunities in new areas creates much hurdles to the social advancement of these schections.
The intervention of CPI(M) is taking into account all these factors. As part of this the LDF government is showing special interest and enthusiasm in this area. The government has given high priority for solving the housing problem faced by SC and ST people. Around 25,000 houses could be completed and distributed among these sections, during the last two years. Special scheme for housing for scheduled castes is being implemented. The assistance for purchase of land has been raised from Rs. 25,000 to Rs.45,000 in panchayath areas, from Rs.27,500 to Rs.50,000 in municipal areas and from Rs.30,000 to Rs.60,000 in corporation areas.
In Kerala child centric curriculum development program was implemented in the year 1998. This has contributed to bring about much improvement in the academic level among the children of scheduled sections. It was able to achieve the level of 28,000 students reaching the 10th standard out of the 30,000 who joined the 1st standard. When the percentage of success in the last SSLC exam was raised to 92.6, students of scheduled castes and tribes were the one who benefited maximum. It was able to correct the notion that the students of these sections are destined to fail and cultivate confidence in them that they too can pass the school exam and avail higher education. Arreas of educational assistance of Rs. 44 Crores accumulated by the previous UDF government was cleared and is, now, being paid at the begining of the current year itself. Educational allowances of students of scheduled sections was increased by 50%, now, after a period of 6 years.
Almost all the traditional industries, in which scheduled sections are engaged, are in crisis due to the market centric policies. But the renovation of many scheduled caste and scheduled tribe co-operatives have been taken up by the government as a policy. Through this the scheduled castes and scheduled tribes in these areas could be ensured work. Special batches for scheduled caste and scheduled tribe students have been started in 12 ITIs in addition to the 41 ITCs under the control of SC-ST welfare department to improve the trade expertise among these students. Scheme for making available farming land has been introduced. Action is being taken to make available atleast 25% of the surplus land to the scheduled sections.
Comprehensive health care scheme has been introduced at a cost of Rs. 10 crores for scheduled sections to have free treatment right from primary health centres to super specialist hospitals including the medical colleges. Care has been taken to extend basic amenities in the colonies. 86% of houses are electrified in Kerala.
Government has intervened to distribute land for Adivasi. Already land has been distributed to around 10,000. Action for making available eligible share of participation and resources to scheduled sections have been taken as part of peoples plan campaign program.
The state scheduled caste convention was a great success. LDF government is duty bound to implement the demands adopted in that convention. Majority of the scheduled people have experienced that the words of CPI(M) are not some thing to eyewash them, but out of firm and clear commitment. As a sequel to this realisation, people, including those who were mislead and in the traps of vested interest groups, are aligning with the CPI(M). They are not merely greeting the march, but are coming forwarded dedicated to the party. The success of Nava Kerala March is also the proof of the support from the scheduled castes and tribes with new enthusiasm.
Shall the returning pravasis be neglected.
The Nava Kerala March was touring the Pathanamthitta district on Saturday after covering Alleppey district where the reception had been marvellous. March arrived at Thiruvalla by 11.30 AM. Thousand of people received and accompanied the march by shouting slogans with enthusiasm defying the scorching sun. The crowd at Thiruvalla was the indication of the participation that followed in the district. Thereafter, Ranny, Pathanamthitta, Konny and Adoor witnessed crowd surpassing one another. From the minority communities, not only the ordinary people but also the priests came forward to greet the march. The districts remaining to cover are only Quilon and Thiruvananthapuram. When the march covered 12 districts of Kerala, we can confirm one thing that the state has never before witnessed a campaign program that has communicated with these many people. The experience of the past 20 days was such a great one that one cannot identify the district that greeted the march, best. The reception accorded to the march can be highlighted as the magnificent example of the magnitude of love and interest the people of Kerala are having on the CPI(M). Above all, it proves repeatedly that this is the only movement that the people look forward with expectation.
The issue highlighted at the media meet at Chengannur before entering the district was that of the problems faced by the Malayalee migrants in the background of the global recession. The problems of pravasi malayalees was one of the issue we have highlighted all through the march. Number of people returning on loosing their job is increasing day by day. The indication is that it is likely to increase in the coming months. Recession has already affected Europe and America very deeply. The number of people loosing their job and the business landing in loss are on the increase. Those who were having high wages are turning without any income all of a sudden. Due to stoppage of construction work thousands of labourers are returning helpless. As the bulk of the NRIs are malayalees, the impact faced by the state is severe. The large scale migration of Malayalees to gulf that started in 70's picked up in 80's. At that stage 5% of work force of the state was in Gulf. By 2001 it rose to 10%. 20% of the income of the state happened to be from those working abroad. This was seven times the assistance the state received from the Central Government. If this income is counted, the income of the state will be 30% higher than that of the All India average. This income is the major factor that strengthens the economy of the state. That means, the problem arising now is not that of pravasi malayalees alone, but is that of the entire nation. The outlook of the party is that this problem shall be viewed in this perspective and all possible measures are to be taken for rehabilitation of the pravasis returning.
While the Central Government has neglected the pravasis, LDF government of Kerala has presented its annual budget with a package worth Rs. 110 Crores for the rehabilitation of pravasis. In reply to the refusal of the Central Planning Commission to sanction the pravasi rehabilitation scheme submitted by the the government of Kerala, it proves how best the state meets its commitment to the pravasi malayalees. In addition to the Rs. 100 Crores loan package and Rs. 10 Crores Welfare Fund contribution for the rehabilitation of returning pravasis, many of the schemes declared in the budget in industrial investment, education etc are also of direct benefit to them. The registration system introduced for collecting the details of gulf returnees is part of the dedication of the government to make the implementation of the schemes orderly and comprehensive. Allocation of Rs. 10 Crores for the pravasi welfare fund that provides assistance for the marriage of the daughters, medical treatment and pension will provide momentum for the implementation of the scheme. CPI(M) is not having any illution that the entire problems of gulf returnees can be solved with this scheme and package. These are only the beginning and part of the measures.
As the major section that gives sizable contribution for strengthening the economy of the state, the pravasi malayalees are to be viewed with much consideration. The state government has got the increased responsibility to implement plans and programs suitable for them. But, it is the central government that can effectively and efficiently intervene in this area by virtue of its role in relations with foreign countries and the problems of resource mobilisation. Pressure has to be built to make them think in these terms. CPI(M) will do everything possible in this respect.
The issue highlighted at the media meet at Chengannur before entering the district was that of the problems faced by the Malayalee migrants in the background of the global recession. The problems of pravasi malayalees was one of the issue we have highlighted all through the march. Number of people returning on loosing their job is increasing day by day. The indication is that it is likely to increase in the coming months. Recession has already affected Europe and America very deeply. The number of people loosing their job and the business landing in loss are on the increase. Those who were having high wages are turning without any income all of a sudden. Due to stoppage of construction work thousands of labourers are returning helpless. As the bulk of the NRIs are malayalees, the impact faced by the state is severe. The large scale migration of Malayalees to gulf that started in 70's picked up in 80's. At that stage 5% of work force of the state was in Gulf. By 2001 it rose to 10%. 20% of the income of the state happened to be from those working abroad. This was seven times the assistance the state received from the Central Government. If this income is counted, the income of the state will be 30% higher than that of the All India average. This income is the major factor that strengthens the economy of the state. That means, the problem arising now is not that of pravasi malayalees alone, but is that of the entire nation. The outlook of the party is that this problem shall be viewed in this perspective and all possible measures are to be taken for rehabilitation of the pravasis returning.
While the Central Government has neglected the pravasis, LDF government of Kerala has presented its annual budget with a package worth Rs. 110 Crores for the rehabilitation of pravasis. In reply to the refusal of the Central Planning Commission to sanction the pravasi rehabilitation scheme submitted by the the government of Kerala, it proves how best the state meets its commitment to the pravasi malayalees. In addition to the Rs. 100 Crores loan package and Rs. 10 Crores Welfare Fund contribution for the rehabilitation of returning pravasis, many of the schemes declared in the budget in industrial investment, education etc are also of direct benefit to them. The registration system introduced for collecting the details of gulf returnees is part of the dedication of the government to make the implementation of the schemes orderly and comprehensive. Allocation of Rs. 10 Crores for the pravasi welfare fund that provides assistance for the marriage of the daughters, medical treatment and pension will provide momentum for the implementation of the scheme. CPI(M) is not having any illution that the entire problems of gulf returnees can be solved with this scheme and package. These are only the beginning and part of the measures.
As the major section that gives sizable contribution for strengthening the economy of the state, the pravasi malayalees are to be viewed with much consideration. The state government has got the increased responsibility to implement plans and programs suitable for them. But, it is the central government that can effectively and efficiently intervene in this area by virtue of its role in relations with foreign countries and the problems of resource mobilisation. Pressure has to be built to make them think in these terms. CPI(M) will do everything possible in this respect.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Stepping to a Prosperous Kerala.
CPI(M) is putting forward the slogan of “Aiswarya Keralam” through the Nava Kerala March. This is the continuation of the policy formulated by the Communist Party while raising the slogan of “Aikya Keralam”. The EMS government of 1957 formulated and implemented many reforms that formed the basis for the development of Kerala state. The state achieved many feats that caught the attention of the entire world through those reforms. The development strategy named “Kerala Model” is evolved. Globalisation imposes policies that negates this development strategy. Party is waging the struggle through organising the people to change the globalisation policies that bring havoc. Side by side with this the LDF government is intervening to retain our achievements and remove the deficiencies assessing the changing scenario. This is an effort to strengthen the state and its economy based on the Kerala model. The budget presented by the Finance Minister Dr. Thomas Issac is the declaration that this development model will be boldly taken forward.
The budget proposed, which puts forward alternate policies and programs within the limitations imposed by the challenges raised by globalisation policies followed by the central government and the global financial crisis, is a model for the whole of India. The budget reveals how different is LDF government from the UPA lead central government and the UDF lead earlier governments. It simultaneously address the long term development projects and welfare measures that give short term relief. This is also a budget that favourably considers the weaker sections of the society. The approach taken in the budget is that of broad basing the achievements and rejuvenating the weak agro-industrial sectors for the creation of a prosperous state. It could address the new problems of welfare, health care and education sectors as well.
A renovating package of Rs. 10000 Crores is declared in this budget to address the problems created by the global financial crisis. This comes to 5% of the gross internal revenue of the state. The Central package is only 0.5% of its revenue. The difference between the governments in facing this new problem is evident in it. The infrastructure development package of Rs. 10000 Crores, the private investment package of Rs. 20000 Crores, resource mobilisation of Rs. 597 Crores, increased capital expenditure etc reflects the alternate measures to sustain and expand the economy during the period of global recession.
Separate package of paddy cultivation, Rs. 500 Crores package for coconut replantation, Agricultural debt relief fund, Rs. 166 crores for irrigation projects, lift irrigation renovation plan, Rs. 125 crores for for infrastructure development of coal paddy fields, waiving mortguage loans, Rs. 15 crores for coconut development, waiving Rs.35 crores of arrears of kerafed are the bold declarations that the agricultural sector will not be left to the vagaries of crisis.
An allotment of Rs. 46 crores for cashew industry, Rs. 50 crores for handloom industry, Rs. 64 crores for coir industry and 2.75 crores for handicrafts industry are made. These along with the proposed plan for establishing a coir factory in Alleppey reveals the consideration on the part of the LDF government towards the traditional industries sector. This will go a long way in helping those who suffers due to the neglect during the UDF regime in the past and to revive the traditional industries.
Providing ration rice at Rs.2 a kg for those below poverty line, scheduled sections and the fishermen and rice at Rs.14 a kg through the maveli stores are the bold steps taken by the LDF government even at a time when the central government is not at all helpful. It has to be noted that the LDF government is taking this initiative when the central government has continuously been reducing the quota of rice for the state.
Rs. 2000 crores for EMS housing scheme and Rs. 250 crores for food subsidy have been set apart additionally. 50 ps per kg is the subsidy for cattle feed given to dairy sector. All these are the proof for the consideration the LDF government is having for the state and the people.
Imaginative programs to address the regional imbalance also finds a place in the budget. The declaration of Rs. 1500 crores package for the integrated development of Malabar region is the example.
Rs. 883 crores have been set apart for the public sector while it is crumbling under the impact of the globalisation policies of the central government. This proves that the alternate approach of left is not confined to mere declarations, but are practical applications. The allocation of Rs. 35 crores for small scale industries has to be seen along with this.
The concern of the LDF for the future generation is revealed in the allocation of Rs. 101 crores for educational sector.
The waiving of housing loan of weaker sections, raising of minimum pension from Rs. 200 to Rs. 250, assistance for the education of wards of fishermen in autonomous education institutions are the programs that hold the hands of the weaker sections. The raising of maternity leave to 6 months also is worthy of emulation.
When central government reduces the food subsidy, Keala government is increasing it by Rs. 250 crores. When central government disposes the public sector, Kerala government revives them spending Rs. 883 crores. When central government push maximum people out of the ration net, government of Kerala is providing rice at Rs.2 per kg for all under the poverty line and other weaker sections of the society. All these are examples of the alternate policy framework of the left parties.
The thrust of the budget is the protection and development of the labour, service, social welfare, traditional sectors crumbling under the impact of globalisation policies of the central government. The tax concession of Rs. 23 crores and avoiding of any additional taxes extend much relief to the people of Kerala. The consideration given to rehabilitation program and welfare program is commendable in the background of the gulf employment crisis. It was in the background of the denial of central planning commission that the state government takes steps for pravasi welfare and self employment schemes. Pravasi welfare fund is allotted Rs. 10 crores and Rs. 100 crores is being mobilised for self employment.
Increase in capital expenditure will help the long term development. Proceeding with measures to eliminate revenue deficit even when the central government is not helpful is the proof for high degree of financial descipline. In short, the proposed Kerala budget is the frame work for the intervention to create a prosperous state despite the limitations imposed by the globalisation policies of the central government, while, at the same time fighting against the retrograde policies. This budget underlines the fact that the LDF and the CPI(M) leading it are rising to the expectation of the people of the state.
The budget proposed, which puts forward alternate policies and programs within the limitations imposed by the challenges raised by globalisation policies followed by the central government and the global financial crisis, is a model for the whole of India. The budget reveals how different is LDF government from the UPA lead central government and the UDF lead earlier governments. It simultaneously address the long term development projects and welfare measures that give short term relief. This is also a budget that favourably considers the weaker sections of the society. The approach taken in the budget is that of broad basing the achievements and rejuvenating the weak agro-industrial sectors for the creation of a prosperous state. It could address the new problems of welfare, health care and education sectors as well.
A renovating package of Rs. 10000 Crores is declared in this budget to address the problems created by the global financial crisis. This comes to 5% of the gross internal revenue of the state. The Central package is only 0.5% of its revenue. The difference between the governments in facing this new problem is evident in it. The infrastructure development package of Rs. 10000 Crores, the private investment package of Rs. 20000 Crores, resource mobilisation of Rs. 597 Crores, increased capital expenditure etc reflects the alternate measures to sustain and expand the economy during the period of global recession.
Separate package of paddy cultivation, Rs. 500 Crores package for coconut replantation, Agricultural debt relief fund, Rs. 166 crores for irrigation projects, lift irrigation renovation plan, Rs. 125 crores for for infrastructure development of coal paddy fields, waiving mortguage loans, Rs. 15 crores for coconut development, waiving Rs.35 crores of arrears of kerafed are the bold declarations that the agricultural sector will not be left to the vagaries of crisis.
An allotment of Rs. 46 crores for cashew industry, Rs. 50 crores for handloom industry, Rs. 64 crores for coir industry and 2.75 crores for handicrafts industry are made. These along with the proposed plan for establishing a coir factory in Alleppey reveals the consideration on the part of the LDF government towards the traditional industries sector. This will go a long way in helping those who suffers due to the neglect during the UDF regime in the past and to revive the traditional industries.
Providing ration rice at Rs.2 a kg for those below poverty line, scheduled sections and the fishermen and rice at Rs.14 a kg through the maveli stores are the bold steps taken by the LDF government even at a time when the central government is not at all helpful. It has to be noted that the LDF government is taking this initiative when the central government has continuously been reducing the quota of rice for the state.
Rs. 2000 crores for EMS housing scheme and Rs. 250 crores for food subsidy have been set apart additionally. 50 ps per kg is the subsidy for cattle feed given to dairy sector. All these are the proof for the consideration the LDF government is having for the state and the people.
Imaginative programs to address the regional imbalance also finds a place in the budget. The declaration of Rs. 1500 crores package for the integrated development of Malabar region is the example.
Rs. 883 crores have been set apart for the public sector while it is crumbling under the impact of the globalisation policies of the central government. This proves that the alternate approach of left is not confined to mere declarations, but are practical applications. The allocation of Rs. 35 crores for small scale industries has to be seen along with this.
The concern of the LDF for the future generation is revealed in the allocation of Rs. 101 crores for educational sector.
The waiving of housing loan of weaker sections, raising of minimum pension from Rs. 200 to Rs. 250, assistance for the education of wards of fishermen in autonomous education institutions are the programs that hold the hands of the weaker sections. The raising of maternity leave to 6 months also is worthy of emulation.
When central government reduces the food subsidy, Keala government is increasing it by Rs. 250 crores. When central government disposes the public sector, Kerala government revives them spending Rs. 883 crores. When central government push maximum people out of the ration net, government of Kerala is providing rice at Rs.2 per kg for all under the poverty line and other weaker sections of the society. All these are examples of the alternate policy framework of the left parties.
The thrust of the budget is the protection and development of the labour, service, social welfare, traditional sectors crumbling under the impact of globalisation policies of the central government. The tax concession of Rs. 23 crores and avoiding of any additional taxes extend much relief to the people of Kerala. The consideration given to rehabilitation program and welfare program is commendable in the background of the gulf employment crisis. It was in the background of the denial of central planning commission that the state government takes steps for pravasi welfare and self employment schemes. Pravasi welfare fund is allotted Rs. 10 crores and Rs. 100 crores is being mobilised for self employment.
Increase in capital expenditure will help the long term development. Proceeding with measures to eliminate revenue deficit even when the central government is not helpful is the proof for high degree of financial descipline. In short, the proposed Kerala budget is the frame work for the intervention to create a prosperous state despite the limitations imposed by the globalisation policies of the central government, while, at the same time fighting against the retrograde policies. This budget underlines the fact that the LDF and the CPI(M) leading it are rising to the expectation of the people of the state.
Intervention in traditional industry sectors.
Nava Kerala March has entered Alleppey district completing its tour in Kottayam, from high ranges to coastal area. The reception in Kottayam district started at Mundakkayam and ended at Thalayolapparambu. People assembled in good number even at places considered to be the bastions of right wing parties. The success of the march in this district was the proof of retention of the enthusiasm created by the state conference of the party at Kottayam, still, in very good measure. The concluding session held at Kottayam town was vitually a big rally.
If the problems affecting the people in the high ranges are related to agriculture, the problems in coastal area is different. It is in traditional sectors including fishing that the majority of the people in Keala are working. Mostly people in this area are very poor. Question by a media person in the meet at Kottayam on thursday morning was that how many mark could be given for the performance of LDF government. The reply given without any hesitation was that full marks can be given. The neglect shown and problems created by the earlier UDF government to the traditional sector cannot be ignored. The LDF government was able to solve those problems and to protect the people through sincere measures of intervention to a great extend.
The due assistance to the coir workers were held up in the name of financial crisis. The crisis ridden coir co-operatives resulted in the workers being shifted to the production centres of private companies. Rs. 2336 lakhs were given to 458 coir co-operatives for their revival. 31 months' arrears of pension, unpaid by the UDF, was cleared by this government. The pension denied to 8000 were re-introduced. Pension amount was raised to Rs. 200.
The arrears of rebate to handloom societies were fully given. The group insurance contribution was increased to Rs. 5 Crores. 25% wage increase was ensured for khadi workers. Cashew workers were given 9 days work during the UDF rule. Till this time LDF government has ensured 530 days work in capex and 420 days in cashew development corporation. Rs. 27 Crores for cashew development corporation and Rs. 13 Crores for capex were allotted.
The LDF government is taking measures to solve the problems faced by the fishing community on a sustainable basis. Fishermen debt relief act introduced by Government of Kerala is first of its kind in India. Central Government has given instruction to the state government for complete banning of trawling during monsoon. This has affected the job security of the traditional fishfolk. To overcome this problem, Kerala surface water fishing protection act was enacted. Hence, traditional fishermen could go for fishing even during the period of ban on trawling. The fishermen welfare fund activity was disrupted due to the intervention of exporters and such other establishments. To solve this problem, fishermen cess act was introduced. Welfare fund activities were revived. Scheme for providing land and housing for all the fishermen was initiated. Around 6000 houses were sanctioned by the government so far. 11,000 houses are under construction. Interest free loan, insurance for fishing implements and around 1000 centres for production and distribution of value added products were introduced for avoiding fishermen falling into the debt trap of intermediaries.
During 2006-07 Rs. 969.51 Crores were the receipts from American market alone from the sale of cashew. Total income from this sector was Rs.2455.17 Crores. That means 39% of the export of cashew was to US market. The extension of payment period from 30 days to 120 days by the super markets and slashing of credit limits by the banks in US in the background of financial crisis has adversely affected the export from India. When the purchasing power of US citizens reduces because of the crisis this sector also is moving over to a period of severe crisis.
The situation in coir sector also is the same. It was Rs. 605 Crores that we got by exporting coir. When the fact that developed European countries are the market for 70% of coir exports, it can be seen that this crisis will affect the coir sector as well. 10% of Indian export is that of textile products. 70% of consumers are US and European Union countries. This includes handlooms from Kerala.
Rs.8363.53 Crores was the receipt from sea food exports during 2006-07. 6,12,642 tonnes of products were exported. Share of Kerala in terms of the value was about 19%. Fish food export from Kerala to US market alone comes to Rs. 139.67 Crores. 32% is exported to European Union. In this sector too, the global crisis is going to affect us.
When such a crisis situation is emerging in the traditional industrial sector in Kerala, no worth while helping measures are seen in the budget of Central Government. The neglect to this foreign exchange earning sector is worthy of protest. At the same time the LDF government has been effectively intervening in these traditional sectors with utmost concern. It is quite natural that the people who experience and enjoy the fruits of such measures of the LDF government is coming to greet the march with much jubilance. They are giving full marks to the LDF government. It is because of these reasons that more and more people are aligning with the CPI(M), the major constituent of the LDF.
If the problems affecting the people in the high ranges are related to agriculture, the problems in coastal area is different. It is in traditional sectors including fishing that the majority of the people in Keala are working. Mostly people in this area are very poor. Question by a media person in the meet at Kottayam on thursday morning was that how many mark could be given for the performance of LDF government. The reply given without any hesitation was that full marks can be given. The neglect shown and problems created by the earlier UDF government to the traditional sector cannot be ignored. The LDF government was able to solve those problems and to protect the people through sincere measures of intervention to a great extend.
The due assistance to the coir workers were held up in the name of financial crisis. The crisis ridden coir co-operatives resulted in the workers being shifted to the production centres of private companies. Rs. 2336 lakhs were given to 458 coir co-operatives for their revival. 31 months' arrears of pension, unpaid by the UDF, was cleared by this government. The pension denied to 8000 were re-introduced. Pension amount was raised to Rs. 200.
The arrears of rebate to handloom societies were fully given. The group insurance contribution was increased to Rs. 5 Crores. 25% wage increase was ensured for khadi workers. Cashew workers were given 9 days work during the UDF rule. Till this time LDF government has ensured 530 days work in capex and 420 days in cashew development corporation. Rs. 27 Crores for cashew development corporation and Rs. 13 Crores for capex were allotted.
The LDF government is taking measures to solve the problems faced by the fishing community on a sustainable basis. Fishermen debt relief act introduced by Government of Kerala is first of its kind in India. Central Government has given instruction to the state government for complete banning of trawling during monsoon. This has affected the job security of the traditional fishfolk. To overcome this problem, Kerala surface water fishing protection act was enacted. Hence, traditional fishermen could go for fishing even during the period of ban on trawling. The fishermen welfare fund activity was disrupted due to the intervention of exporters and such other establishments. To solve this problem, fishermen cess act was introduced. Welfare fund activities were revived. Scheme for providing land and housing for all the fishermen was initiated. Around 6000 houses were sanctioned by the government so far. 11,000 houses are under construction. Interest free loan, insurance for fishing implements and around 1000 centres for production and distribution of value added products were introduced for avoiding fishermen falling into the debt trap of intermediaries.
During 2006-07 Rs. 969.51 Crores were the receipts from American market alone from the sale of cashew. Total income from this sector was Rs.2455.17 Crores. That means 39% of the export of cashew was to US market. The extension of payment period from 30 days to 120 days by the super markets and slashing of credit limits by the banks in US in the background of financial crisis has adversely affected the export from India. When the purchasing power of US citizens reduces because of the crisis this sector also is moving over to a period of severe crisis.
The situation in coir sector also is the same. It was Rs. 605 Crores that we got by exporting coir. When the fact that developed European countries are the market for 70% of coir exports, it can be seen that this crisis will affect the coir sector as well. 10% of Indian export is that of textile products. 70% of consumers are US and European Union countries. This includes handlooms from Kerala.
Rs.8363.53 Crores was the receipt from sea food exports during 2006-07. 6,12,642 tonnes of products were exported. Share of Kerala in terms of the value was about 19%. Fish food export from Kerala to US market alone comes to Rs. 139.67 Crores. 32% is exported to European Union. In this sector too, the global crisis is going to affect us.
When such a crisis situation is emerging in the traditional industrial sector in Kerala, no worth while helping measures are seen in the budget of Central Government. The neglect to this foreign exchange earning sector is worthy of protest. At the same time the LDF government has been effectively intervening in these traditional sectors with utmost concern. It is quite natural that the people who experience and enjoy the fruits of such measures of the LDF government is coming to greet the march with much jubilance. They are giving full marks to the LDF government. It is because of these reasons that more and more people are aligning with the CPI(M), the major constituent of the LDF.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
The sorry plight of cash crops.
Adivasi chief and artist Kandassanasan was among those who assembled to greet the Nava Kerala March at Cheruthoni in Idukki district. He is the descendent of Kolumban, the Adivasi guide for Idukki dam site. Kandassanasan brought a crown made of pepper and cardamom.
The first reception at Cheruthoni was with cardamom garland. Nava Kerala March was passing through an area where majority of the people depends on cardamom, pepper and rubber for their livelihood.
Plantations and cash crops are important components with which Kerala exists. Giving more importance for cash crops was a structural change that came during the 1970's. During the year 1960-61 plantations formed 33.34% of total area cultivated. It increased to 38.62% in 1970-71 and 52% in 1990-91. It is still on the increase. About 14 lakhs of people are depending on this sector. Bulk of them are either small and medium scale farmers or agricultural workers. Among the farmers 92% are earning their livelihood from small and medium farm holdings. 90% of rubber, 90% of pepper, 80% of cardamom and 25% of coffee produced in India is the contribution of Kerala. 28% of pepper, 21% of tea and 85% of coffee is exported. This sector is severely affected by the vagaries of foreign markets as their prices are dependent on international market. The new economic policy therefore shows its adverse impact in this area.
It was this area that was severely affected by the reduction of tariff and taxes as part of the liberalisation. Pepper priced Rs.205 per kg in internal market during 1999-2000. One kilo of coffee beans fetched Rs.80. Both these crashed drastically. Price of one kilo of vanila was around Rs.4000 when its farming started during 2003-04. Prices have come down for all these products. The severe crisis resulted from the globalisation policies caused the present pathetic situation prevailing in this area. It can be seen that it was in these areas that farmers committed suicide in Kerala.
As the global financial crisis has deepened the situation in the plantation sector depending on the export market has still worsened. The trade agreements with south Asian countries also creates much problems in this sector. The reason is that same products coming from countries with similiar climate creates crisis even in the internal market.
Specific assistance from the Central Government is required to address this crisis in plantation sector. Because, they are duty bound to protect this sector which contributed considerably to the foreign exchange earning of the national exchequer.
The continuance of adverse policies by the Central Govt without taking measures to protect the rubber farmers is to be condemned. The decision to redefine the nominal rubber farmers taken by the central cabinet on 5th February will have long lasting impact. It results in denial of even the available relief to hundreds of farmers. Central Cabinet has permitted to amend the rules made in 1977. The proposal to change the definition of nominal rubber farmers is part of this. This amendment is likely to be introduced in the coming session of parliament.
The decision of the Government is to redefine the small farmers as those having upto 10 hectares of rubber instead of the present 50 hectares. This “Rubber Amendment 2009” will deny relief available to hundreds of rubber farmers in Kerala. Central Home Minister Sri. P Chidambaram has justified the cabinet decision in his media meet.
The interim budget of UPA government does not have any suggestion to address the severe problems of rubber farmers. Indian agricultural and industrial sectors are severely affected by the global capitalist crisis. Price of rubber has crashed to around Rs.60 from Rs.142. One of the main reasons is the crisis in automobile industry. The reduction in price of crude oil which is a raw material used for the production of synthetic rubber also is a reason. The industrialist taking advantage of this phenomena also deepens the crisis. Central Government is not taking measures to help the rubber farmers taking into account these issues.
The state government is taking creative measures to address the problems of such sectors within its limitations. One of the important creative measure by the LDF government is the efforts to reopen the plantations those remained closed. The waiving of debts of the farmers committed suicide and the appointment of debt relief commission proves that the government will do what ever is possible. But the root cause of the problem lies with the wrong policies of the Central government. Farmers will be saved only if that government is defeated through massive struggles. The Nava Kerala March organised by us is receiving the good will of the people in the high ranges because of the struggles the party is leading over these issues.
The first reception at Cheruthoni was with cardamom garland. Nava Kerala March was passing through an area where majority of the people depends on cardamom, pepper and rubber for their livelihood.
Plantations and cash crops are important components with which Kerala exists. Giving more importance for cash crops was a structural change that came during the 1970's. During the year 1960-61 plantations formed 33.34% of total area cultivated. It increased to 38.62% in 1970-71 and 52% in 1990-91. It is still on the increase. About 14 lakhs of people are depending on this sector. Bulk of them are either small and medium scale farmers or agricultural workers. Among the farmers 92% are earning their livelihood from small and medium farm holdings. 90% of rubber, 90% of pepper, 80% of cardamom and 25% of coffee produced in India is the contribution of Kerala. 28% of pepper, 21% of tea and 85% of coffee is exported. This sector is severely affected by the vagaries of foreign markets as their prices are dependent on international market. The new economic policy therefore shows its adverse impact in this area.
It was this area that was severely affected by the reduction of tariff and taxes as part of the liberalisation. Pepper priced Rs.205 per kg in internal market during 1999-2000. One kilo of coffee beans fetched Rs.80. Both these crashed drastically. Price of one kilo of vanila was around Rs.4000 when its farming started during 2003-04. Prices have come down for all these products. The severe crisis resulted from the globalisation policies caused the present pathetic situation prevailing in this area. It can be seen that it was in these areas that farmers committed suicide in Kerala.
As the global financial crisis has deepened the situation in the plantation sector depending on the export market has still worsened. The trade agreements with south Asian countries also creates much problems in this sector. The reason is that same products coming from countries with similiar climate creates crisis even in the internal market.
Specific assistance from the Central Government is required to address this crisis in plantation sector. Because, they are duty bound to protect this sector which contributed considerably to the foreign exchange earning of the national exchequer.
The continuance of adverse policies by the Central Govt without taking measures to protect the rubber farmers is to be condemned. The decision to redefine the nominal rubber farmers taken by the central cabinet on 5th February will have long lasting impact. It results in denial of even the available relief to hundreds of farmers. Central Cabinet has permitted to amend the rules made in 1977. The proposal to change the definition of nominal rubber farmers is part of this. This amendment is likely to be introduced in the coming session of parliament.
The decision of the Government is to redefine the small farmers as those having upto 10 hectares of rubber instead of the present 50 hectares. This “Rubber Amendment 2009” will deny relief available to hundreds of rubber farmers in Kerala. Central Home Minister Sri. P Chidambaram has justified the cabinet decision in his media meet.
The interim budget of UPA government does not have any suggestion to address the severe problems of rubber farmers. Indian agricultural and industrial sectors are severely affected by the global capitalist crisis. Price of rubber has crashed to around Rs.60 from Rs.142. One of the main reasons is the crisis in automobile industry. The reduction in price of crude oil which is a raw material used for the production of synthetic rubber also is a reason. The industrialist taking advantage of this phenomena also deepens the crisis. Central Government is not taking measures to help the rubber farmers taking into account these issues.
The state government is taking creative measures to address the problems of such sectors within its limitations. One of the important creative measure by the LDF government is the efforts to reopen the plantations those remained closed. The waiving of debts of the farmers committed suicide and the appointment of debt relief commission proves that the government will do what ever is possible. But the root cause of the problem lies with the wrong policies of the Central government. Farmers will be saved only if that government is defeated through massive struggles. The Nava Kerala March organised by us is receiving the good will of the people in the high ranges because of the struggles the party is leading over these issues.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
The peculiar problems of Idukki.
Nava Kerala March was in Ernakulam district for three days. It started at Angamally on 14th and ended at Kothamangalam on 17th. Then entered Idukki. The distance from Thodupuzha to Peerumedu with five reception centres had to be covered in a hurry. But explaining the objectives of the march cannot be avoided to the people who waited for long with enthusiasm for hours together.
The amount of expectation with which the people views this party is evident from the response we are getting to the issues we are discussing. Idukki is a district with some peculiarities. It is a land of migrant settlers. Migration here dates back to centuries. The settlement was of those who got right to land as part of various government programs, those who came for work in the hydro electric projects etc of which the history is long. The people migrated to this area in the background of the support of the government. It was the requirement of the government. Though some got right to the land allotted to them on migration, a considerable section of them could not acquire the right to the land they hold.
On different occassions, especially during the period of Congress governments, the settlers were evacuated widely in the name of various projects. They raised widespread protests against such evacuation. It was the communist movement which stood in front of such struggles. The heroic struggles of Amaravathi, Churuli and Keerithode in 1961 and 1963 lead by AKG were waged against such evacuation the settlers of Idukki. Followed by these struggles, the farmers got right to construction of houses and farming in these lands. Some farmers got alternate land allotted as a result of these struggles. 4000 families evacuated in 1963 were given land by the EMS government of 1967. As part of the land grab movement of 1969-70 under the leadership of AKG, farmers have occupied surplus land in Kumbanpara of Devikulam Taluk, Kompodinjali of Udumbanchola Taluk and other parts of the district and continue to live there.
In the year 1977, evacuation was stopped on the intervention of CPI(M) followed by the struggle conducted by Karshaka Sangham.
The land related problems of Idukki reveals the ambiguities in government declarations and regulations. This couldnot be reasonably settled due to the vested interests of revenue and forest authorities added to the above. As a result of this the real farmers, landless and Adivasis did not get their due title to the land. The threat of evacuation happened to be there against the small, medium and marginal farmers and those having 4 or 5 cents of land and even to the Adivasis staying in huts since half a century, all of whom struggle with the land for their existence. It is the poor who suffer the most.
Around 5000 families are to get title to the land in various colonies in Munnar panchayath. Same is the case with about 1000 families in areas including the town. Most of them are staying in plots of 4 or 5 cents. Farmers of panchayaths like Kanthallur, Marayur, Vattavada etc are also facing the same situation of absence of title to their land. Such problems are there in 60 villages of 48 panchayaths in 4 taluks of Idukki district. Not only that, 3672 public establishments are also involved. The total population of Idukki district is 11,35,000. 82000 families are due to get title to the land they hold. Out of this around ten thousand are Adivasis. Thus the land problem of Idukki has become a problem seriously affecting 6,20,000 people.
There are many cases of land held by highly rich and influential also. Such encroachments took place mainly during the UDF rule. Strong action is needed to get those land evacuated. The problems of Idukki district in general and Munnar area in particular was subjected to much discussion during these days.
The stand taken by CPI(M) is that action is required taking into account the complexity of the land issue of Idukki as a whole. While resorting to such action, it has to be conceded that the poor shall have the right to continue to live there. At the same time action has to be such that no body's greed is allowed to be perpetuated.
The existence and protection of forest land, Cardamom and such other plantations etc are very important. Action on the part of the government is required to get the adverse court orders reviewed in in respect of title deed to their land in favour of the farmers of high ranges of Idukki. The lease deed has to be renewed for those who are engaged in cardamom plantation on leased land in High Ranges.
The problems of those who are living in catchment areas of the dams from the days of construction of the dams has to be addressed taking into account the security of the dam among others. The cases of fraudulent title to the land has to be enquired into in detail and deserving are to be protected taking into account the period of such title and extend of such holdings.
Action shall be there to take back the land from large scale land grabbers and to distribute that among those who deserve. The surplus land with the Tata has to be taken over and distributed among the Adivasis, plantation labourers and the landless. Action has to be taken to confer the title to the land to all deserving among the small traders and small holders and landless who stay there and the residents of the colony.
CPI(M) is a movement which stand for the protection of the interest of the main stay of the society. Party has put forward the solution taking into account of their interest. The massive participation of the people of Idukki in the Nava Kerala March makes it clear that they support the stand taken by the party.
The amount of expectation with which the people views this party is evident from the response we are getting to the issues we are discussing. Idukki is a district with some peculiarities. It is a land of migrant settlers. Migration here dates back to centuries. The settlement was of those who got right to land as part of various government programs, those who came for work in the hydro electric projects etc of which the history is long. The people migrated to this area in the background of the support of the government. It was the requirement of the government. Though some got right to the land allotted to them on migration, a considerable section of them could not acquire the right to the land they hold.
On different occassions, especially during the period of Congress governments, the settlers were evacuated widely in the name of various projects. They raised widespread protests against such evacuation. It was the communist movement which stood in front of such struggles. The heroic struggles of Amaravathi, Churuli and Keerithode in 1961 and 1963 lead by AKG were waged against such evacuation the settlers of Idukki. Followed by these struggles, the farmers got right to construction of houses and farming in these lands. Some farmers got alternate land allotted as a result of these struggles. 4000 families evacuated in 1963 were given land by the EMS government of 1967. As part of the land grab movement of 1969-70 under the leadership of AKG, farmers have occupied surplus land in Kumbanpara of Devikulam Taluk, Kompodinjali of Udumbanchola Taluk and other parts of the district and continue to live there.
In the year 1977, evacuation was stopped on the intervention of CPI(M) followed by the struggle conducted by Karshaka Sangham.
The land related problems of Idukki reveals the ambiguities in government declarations and regulations. This couldnot be reasonably settled due to the vested interests of revenue and forest authorities added to the above. As a result of this the real farmers, landless and Adivasis did not get their due title to the land. The threat of evacuation happened to be there against the small, medium and marginal farmers and those having 4 or 5 cents of land and even to the Adivasis staying in huts since half a century, all of whom struggle with the land for their existence. It is the poor who suffer the most.
Around 5000 families are to get title to the land in various colonies in Munnar panchayath. Same is the case with about 1000 families in areas including the town. Most of them are staying in plots of 4 or 5 cents. Farmers of panchayaths like Kanthallur, Marayur, Vattavada etc are also facing the same situation of absence of title to their land. Such problems are there in 60 villages of 48 panchayaths in 4 taluks of Idukki district. Not only that, 3672 public establishments are also involved. The total population of Idukki district is 11,35,000. 82000 families are due to get title to the land they hold. Out of this around ten thousand are Adivasis. Thus the land problem of Idukki has become a problem seriously affecting 6,20,000 people.
There are many cases of land held by highly rich and influential also. Such encroachments took place mainly during the UDF rule. Strong action is needed to get those land evacuated. The problems of Idukki district in general and Munnar area in particular was subjected to much discussion during these days.
The stand taken by CPI(M) is that action is required taking into account the complexity of the land issue of Idukki as a whole. While resorting to such action, it has to be conceded that the poor shall have the right to continue to live there. At the same time action has to be such that no body's greed is allowed to be perpetuated.
The existence and protection of forest land, Cardamom and such other plantations etc are very important. Action on the part of the government is required to get the adverse court orders reviewed in in respect of title deed to their land in favour of the farmers of high ranges of Idukki. The lease deed has to be renewed for those who are engaged in cardamom plantation on leased land in High Ranges.
The problems of those who are living in catchment areas of the dams from the days of construction of the dams has to be addressed taking into account the security of the dam among others. The cases of fraudulent title to the land has to be enquired into in detail and deserving are to be protected taking into account the period of such title and extend of such holdings.
Action shall be there to take back the land from large scale land grabbers and to distribute that among those who deserve. The surplus land with the Tata has to be taken over and distributed among the Adivasis, plantation labourers and the landless. Action has to be taken to confer the title to the land to all deserving among the small traders and small holders and landless who stay there and the residents of the colony.
CPI(M) is a movement which stand for the protection of the interest of the main stay of the society. Party has put forward the solution taking into account of their interest. The massive participation of the people of Idukki in the Nava Kerala March makes it clear that they support the stand taken by the party.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
ECOLOGY AND DEVELOPMENT.
Could not participate in the march for one day due to Polit Bureau meeting at Delhi. Com. E P Jayarajan who held the responsibility of the Leader of the march was speaking when rejoined the march by 9.30 on saturday night. It was the first meeting in Ernakulam district at Angamaly. The ground was fully crowded even when the last speaker was delivering his address. When the attack of the enemies and the people coming forward to defend the party ignoring every thing were mentioned, the response of the audience was highly emotional. The declaration of the people by raising slogans that the party cannot be humbled by any force can be described as only awe inspiring. The participation of these party loving people in lakhs exhibits the strength of the party it has acquired in the past. New forms of reception was arranged for the march in Ernakulam district. The workers were found active and enthusiastic. The same was the case with Thrissur district also. Each of the reception on sunday commencing at Parur and ending at Rajendra Maidan was different from the other. Any body can witness the fact that the people are vigorously aligning with the party ignoring all the interventions and false accusations made against it.
The most of the area covered on Sunday was that undergoing very fast urbanisation. There are two sides for urbanisation. While converting the ecosystem to suit the needs of the people, any intervention without taking into account its peculiarities and the sustainability will result in its destruction. It will lead to the disaster of the mankind who is dependent on the ecosystem for all its needs. This is the communist outlook on environmental problems. Hence preservation of the ecosystem is very much an integral part of the communist agenda. It is with this approach that the the CPI(M) program is addressing this issue. The ecological problems arising out of urbanisation deserves important consideration.
Development is possible only by intervening and using the ecosystem. Therefore, man cannot advance without intervening in nature. The formal approach to preservation of environment that it cannot be touched is against the development of society itself. This also should be taken into account. We cannot take a stand that nothing shall be done. Instead, the ecological impact of each such intervention has to be studied and what is not detrimental to the ecosystem is to be selected. Such a compromise between the environment and development is essential.
The problems faced by the environment is not something that can be addressed by verbosity and showmanship. The relation between man and nature has been subjected to widespread study. Some nature lovers accuse that these issues are alien to marxism and that such problems cannot be explained by theory of class struggle.
Marxists view man as part of nature. While animals live accustomed to the nature man tries to transform it to suit his needs. The tools of labour helps him for this. Animals are unable to produce tools. But man is capable of producing tools and transforming nature to suit his needs. Man ascended each step of advancement by applying the labour on the nature using the tools. It is the quality of tools that bettered the life of people at all stages. The mankind advanced from slave society to the present socialist society side by side with the development of tools from bow and arrows to the computer. As part of this the society could ascend the steps of civilisation unlike the animals.
It is impossible to produce the necessities to meet the needs of the society without establishing industries and other production systems. Industrial development can be found essential to the advancement of society. Therefore, formal environmentalism is against the advancement of society. What is essential is a policy taking into account the requirements of advancement of society and the sustenance of the environment. Both the policy, based on mere environmentalism and the slogan of industrialisation without taking into account the question of environment are detrimental. The development program is to be formulated taking into account the possibilities and environmental attributes of the locality. As in other areas, it is the intervention of capitalism in its mad race for profit that has caused the problems and crisis to the ecosystem of any region. It can be seen that United States of America is behind the greatest ever environmental crisis. US is not prepared to change its course despite the world opinion. Many environmental problems have come up in Kerala. The threat posed by plastic, problems of drinking water, problems arising out of e-waste, atmospheric pollution etc are very serious.
CPI(M) is viewing the issues of environment with a scientific approach aimed at the development of the region. This is why party and the LDF is able to face these problems in its proper perspective. When the slogans raised by the Nava Kerala March is assessed in its broad perspective, the environmental problems are serious ones.
The most of the area covered on Sunday was that undergoing very fast urbanisation. There are two sides for urbanisation. While converting the ecosystem to suit the needs of the people, any intervention without taking into account its peculiarities and the sustainability will result in its destruction. It will lead to the disaster of the mankind who is dependent on the ecosystem for all its needs. This is the communist outlook on environmental problems. Hence preservation of the ecosystem is very much an integral part of the communist agenda. It is with this approach that the the CPI(M) program is addressing this issue. The ecological problems arising out of urbanisation deserves important consideration.
Development is possible only by intervening and using the ecosystem. Therefore, man cannot advance without intervening in nature. The formal approach to preservation of environment that it cannot be touched is against the development of society itself. This also should be taken into account. We cannot take a stand that nothing shall be done. Instead, the ecological impact of each such intervention has to be studied and what is not detrimental to the ecosystem is to be selected. Such a compromise between the environment and development is essential.
The problems faced by the environment is not something that can be addressed by verbosity and showmanship. The relation between man and nature has been subjected to widespread study. Some nature lovers accuse that these issues are alien to marxism and that such problems cannot be explained by theory of class struggle.
Marxists view man as part of nature. While animals live accustomed to the nature man tries to transform it to suit his needs. The tools of labour helps him for this. Animals are unable to produce tools. But man is capable of producing tools and transforming nature to suit his needs. Man ascended each step of advancement by applying the labour on the nature using the tools. It is the quality of tools that bettered the life of people at all stages. The mankind advanced from slave society to the present socialist society side by side with the development of tools from bow and arrows to the computer. As part of this the society could ascend the steps of civilisation unlike the animals.
It is impossible to produce the necessities to meet the needs of the society without establishing industries and other production systems. Industrial development can be found essential to the advancement of society. Therefore, formal environmentalism is against the advancement of society. What is essential is a policy taking into account the requirements of advancement of society and the sustenance of the environment. Both the policy, based on mere environmentalism and the slogan of industrialisation without taking into account the question of environment are detrimental. The development program is to be formulated taking into account the possibilities and environmental attributes of the locality. As in other areas, it is the intervention of capitalism in its mad race for profit that has caused the problems and crisis to the ecosystem of any region. It can be seen that United States of America is behind the greatest ever environmental crisis. US is not prepared to change its course despite the world opinion. Many environmental problems have come up in Kerala. The threat posed by plastic, problems of drinking water, problems arising out of e-waste, atmospheric pollution etc are very serious.
CPI(M) is viewing the issues of environment with a scientific approach aimed at the development of the region. This is why party and the LDF is able to face these problems in its proper perspective. When the slogans raised by the Nava Kerala March is assessed in its broad perspective, the environmental problems are serious ones.
Central Govt neglect that crosses all limits.
Nava Kerala March entered Thrissur district on Friday completing its tour of Palakkad district. After the media meet at Ramanilayam, march moved over to Kunnamkulam in the morning. Unbelievable crowd was present there at Kunnamkulam and Guruvayoor even though it was before noon. As the march proceeds, attracting more and more people is really a matter to be proud of. This shows that the people come forward to defend with double the vigour the enemies are attacking us. This is a quality available to our party alone. People have come forward forgetting everything to protect the party at all times when it was severely attacked.
One of the issues we repeatedly tell during the course of the march is regarding the neglect the central government is meting out to the State of Kerala. This issue was touched upon in one of the article written few days back. During the last railway budget the central government was supported by left parties. The main demands put forward by Kerala was accepted due to the strong intervention of the left, though deserving consideration was not forthcoming. Autocast Ltd of Cherthala, Coach Factory at Palakkad etc were all part of this. This time, due and justified consideration is not shown to Kerala in railway budget. Funds have not been made available for construction of over bridges, electrification, doubling of railway lines, survey for new routes included in the last budget. What has been made available are also not fully expended. A budget of Rs. 37,500 Crores have been prepared by railway for the year ending this March. Share available to Kerala was only Rs.240 Crores. Had one percent been made available, Kerala would have got Rs. 375 Crores. The most important project for development of railway in Kerala is the doubling of Shoranur-Mangalapuram line. This work commenced 12 years ago has not yet been completed. 27 kilometers remain to be doubled yet.
When we demand more trains, the reply from railway is that the the rail cannot carry any more train. Railway is not serious about the infrastructure development projects like doubling of lines. Kayamkulam-Ernakulam rail has to be doubled both via Kottayam and Alleppey. This work, if the tardy progress is allowed to continue, will not be completed even with the next 10 years. According to railway's own calculation a minimum of Rs. 2200 Crores are required for the doubling of the required lines in Kerala. What was sanctioned last year was only Rs. 126 Crores. The expectation that the central government will be prepared to considerably increase the funds for doubling of lines atleast in this budget also is belied.
New trains, Kochuveli-Dehradun and Kochuveli-Yeswanthpur, were declared in the budget. Both were not commenced even on the day of this budget. This attitude is one which questions the very concept of budget. But for the declaration that one weekly train will be made bi-weekly, no new train has been proposed, this time. The decision to set up integral coach factory at Kanjikode in Palakkad district is the result of concerted efforts put in by Kerala. Railway minister has not even cared to mention this project in his budget speech, leave alone considering the demand from Kerala that concret steps are required to make the coach factory a reality. The railway minister pretends that he has not heard the consistent demand of Kerala for a railway zone. The major portion of the budget allocation set apart for Southern Railway is being diverted to other parts. The main demand of Kerala is to have a South-West railway zone consisting of Palakkad, Thiruvananthapuram, Salem and the proposed Konkan zones.
If suburban train service like that of Mumbai and Chennai is introduced it will mitigate the sufferings of short distance passengers of thickly populated Kerala. The Delhi Metro Rail Project Chairman Sri. E Sreedharan has already estimated that three suburban rail service can be introduced at a cost of Rs.500 Crores. Kerala's cry for rightful share of railway development is decades old. 14.86 Croes of passengers are travelling with ticket. Those who couldnot travel due to the non availability of ticket is not accounted by railway. The fact that number of trains are not increased even when the passengers are doubled is pitiable. The complaint that the coaches supplied to Kerala trains are old and dilapidated is widespread. The central government has to take urgent short term measures to solve the problems of the passengers along with the large projects. All these are not issues of any concern for the Congres which is in power at the centre. Strong intervention of the left was required to get even some very rightful demands conceded. Now the support of the left is not there for the Central Government. Because of this reason central government is not caring to address the problems faced by Kerala. The development of Kerala is not a concern of Congress !
One of the issues we repeatedly tell during the course of the march is regarding the neglect the central government is meting out to the State of Kerala. This issue was touched upon in one of the article written few days back. During the last railway budget the central government was supported by left parties. The main demands put forward by Kerala was accepted due to the strong intervention of the left, though deserving consideration was not forthcoming. Autocast Ltd of Cherthala, Coach Factory at Palakkad etc were all part of this. This time, due and justified consideration is not shown to Kerala in railway budget. Funds have not been made available for construction of over bridges, electrification, doubling of railway lines, survey for new routes included in the last budget. What has been made available are also not fully expended. A budget of Rs. 37,500 Crores have been prepared by railway for the year ending this March. Share available to Kerala was only Rs.240 Crores. Had one percent been made available, Kerala would have got Rs. 375 Crores. The most important project for development of railway in Kerala is the doubling of Shoranur-Mangalapuram line. This work commenced 12 years ago has not yet been completed. 27 kilometers remain to be doubled yet.
When we demand more trains, the reply from railway is that the the rail cannot carry any more train. Railway is not serious about the infrastructure development projects like doubling of lines. Kayamkulam-Ernakulam rail has to be doubled both via Kottayam and Alleppey. This work, if the tardy progress is allowed to continue, will not be completed even with the next 10 years. According to railway's own calculation a minimum of Rs. 2200 Crores are required for the doubling of the required lines in Kerala. What was sanctioned last year was only Rs. 126 Crores. The expectation that the central government will be prepared to considerably increase the funds for doubling of lines atleast in this budget also is belied.
New trains, Kochuveli-Dehradun and Kochuveli-Yeswanthpur, were declared in the budget. Both were not commenced even on the day of this budget. This attitude is one which questions the very concept of budget. But for the declaration that one weekly train will be made bi-weekly, no new train has been proposed, this time. The decision to set up integral coach factory at Kanjikode in Palakkad district is the result of concerted efforts put in by Kerala. Railway minister has not even cared to mention this project in his budget speech, leave alone considering the demand from Kerala that concret steps are required to make the coach factory a reality. The railway minister pretends that he has not heard the consistent demand of Kerala for a railway zone. The major portion of the budget allocation set apart for Southern Railway is being diverted to other parts. The main demand of Kerala is to have a South-West railway zone consisting of Palakkad, Thiruvananthapuram, Salem and the proposed Konkan zones.
If suburban train service like that of Mumbai and Chennai is introduced it will mitigate the sufferings of short distance passengers of thickly populated Kerala. The Delhi Metro Rail Project Chairman Sri. E Sreedharan has already estimated that three suburban rail service can be introduced at a cost of Rs.500 Crores. Kerala's cry for rightful share of railway development is decades old. 14.86 Croes of passengers are travelling with ticket. Those who couldnot travel due to the non availability of ticket is not accounted by railway. The fact that number of trains are not increased even when the passengers are doubled is pitiable. The complaint that the coaches supplied to Kerala trains are old and dilapidated is widespread. The central government has to take urgent short term measures to solve the problems of the passengers along with the large projects. All these are not issues of any concern for the Congres which is in power at the centre. Strong intervention of the left was required to get even some very rightful demands conceded. Now the support of the left is not there for the Central Government. Because of this reason central government is not caring to address the problems faced by Kerala. The development of Kerala is not a concern of Congress !
Thursday, February 12, 2009
INCREASED PARTICIPATION OF WOMEN
The number of women coming to greet the march is unprecedented. House wifes coming with their children with their house locked, women workers loosing their wages for the day, employees, students and the like are from all the fields. What was witnessed in Malappuram district was the muslim women in lots coming to greet the march. Women were found enthusiastically greeting the march on its way too. Bringing women to the mainstream is an important measure of ensuring social justice. In that sense, deliberate interventions are required to improve their living conditions. Problems of women are given special importance in the party program. This massive participation of women is a reflection of the intervention of party in their problems with the correct perspective.
Womens emancipation is not an agenda of women alone. It is a social issue. With that in view, intervention for emancipation of women is an important task as far as communist movement is concerned. Marxist leaders have identified this issue important. The book titled “Origin of family, private property and the state” written by Engels is a classic for ever.
Womens problems can be solved only as part of the common social advancement. While such common struggles are taken forward, peculiar problems of women also are to be addressed.
51.4% of the population of Kerala are women. We could better their life to a great extend compared to the women in other parts of India. Life expectancy of of women in Kerala is 76 years while all India average is only 61.8. Literacy among women also is higher in Kerala, 87.86%.
49% of those admitted for school education are girls. Out of those who complete school education 49.19% are girls. Among those who graduates 67.4% are women. They count 78.20% among the postgraduates. The labour participation of urban women in Kerala is 20% while all India average is only 16%.
Kerala women have established its presence among those who work abroad. 3.09 lakhs of Kerala women are working abroad. This comes to 16.8% of the total labour migrated from India. While the percentage of population of women in most of the other states have come down since 1921, it has increased in Kerala. It is the intervention through struggles waged by the left and other movements that bettered the life of women in Kerala. Despite all these advancements we cannot say that their condition is fairly advanced when compared with that of the men. More vigilance is required to end the attrocities on women. Their share of participation in technical education is low. It is only a mere 10%. Compared to men, unemployment is higher among women. Same is the case with employment of educated women also.
Outdated social practices often creates problems for women. They are mostly working in traditional sectors. The problems arising out of global financial crisis are mostly affecting the women.
LDF government is taking creative measures to address the problems faced by women. Gender Advisory Board is established with a view to achieve women empowerment and development. Finishing school flagship program is introduced to offer training and guidance for women seeking employment. Separate budget allocation is being made for ensuring funds for solving their problems. Gender auditing system has commenced. Government has been vigilant to address the problems of Anganavadi workers. Their allowances were raised by Rs. 150. Measures are on to grant them pension. The restriction over widow pension for those having major son is removed. Action is taken to increase widow pension. Kudumbasree program is contributing to better the lives of women. Government has set apart Rs.1500 Crores for providing loan for Kudumbasree.
Government has given interest free loan for women in fisheries sector. Shortage of drinking water is imposing heavy burden on the women. Creative intervention is on to solve the problem of drinking water. Government is initiating measures for assistance of Rs.25,000 for the marriage of the widows. The women policy declaration is the continuation of all these measures. The aligning of more and more women with us is the recognition and support for our efforts to solve their problems.
Womens emancipation is not an agenda of women alone. It is a social issue. With that in view, intervention for emancipation of women is an important task as far as communist movement is concerned. Marxist leaders have identified this issue important. The book titled “Origin of family, private property and the state” written by Engels is a classic for ever.
Womens problems can be solved only as part of the common social advancement. While such common struggles are taken forward, peculiar problems of women also are to be addressed.
51.4% of the population of Kerala are women. We could better their life to a great extend compared to the women in other parts of India. Life expectancy of of women in Kerala is 76 years while all India average is only 61.8. Literacy among women also is higher in Kerala, 87.86%.
49% of those admitted for school education are girls. Out of those who complete school education 49.19% are girls. Among those who graduates 67.4% are women. They count 78.20% among the postgraduates. The labour participation of urban women in Kerala is 20% while all India average is only 16%.
Kerala women have established its presence among those who work abroad. 3.09 lakhs of Kerala women are working abroad. This comes to 16.8% of the total labour migrated from India. While the percentage of population of women in most of the other states have come down since 1921, it has increased in Kerala. It is the intervention through struggles waged by the left and other movements that bettered the life of women in Kerala. Despite all these advancements we cannot say that their condition is fairly advanced when compared with that of the men. More vigilance is required to end the attrocities on women. Their share of participation in technical education is low. It is only a mere 10%. Compared to men, unemployment is higher among women. Same is the case with employment of educated women also.
Outdated social practices often creates problems for women. They are mostly working in traditional sectors. The problems arising out of global financial crisis are mostly affecting the women.
LDF government is taking creative measures to address the problems faced by women. Gender Advisory Board is established with a view to achieve women empowerment and development. Finishing school flagship program is introduced to offer training and guidance for women seeking employment. Separate budget allocation is being made for ensuring funds for solving their problems. Gender auditing system has commenced. Government has been vigilant to address the problems of Anganavadi workers. Their allowances were raised by Rs. 150. Measures are on to grant them pension. The restriction over widow pension for those having major son is removed. Action is taken to increase widow pension. Kudumbasree program is contributing to better the lives of women. Government has set apart Rs.1500 Crores for providing loan for Kudumbasree.
Government has given interest free loan for women in fisheries sector. Shortage of drinking water is imposing heavy burden on the women. Creative intervention is on to solve the problem of drinking water. Government is initiating measures for assistance of Rs.25,000 for the marriage of the widows. The women policy declaration is the continuation of all these measures. The aligning of more and more women with us is the recognition and support for our efforts to solve their problems.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
CBI BOWS ITS HEAD, CONGRESS SHAMELESS
CBI bows its head with its integrity thoroughly questioned. Even the apex court has commented that the CBI is acting under the directions of the Central Government. The main activity of CBI in the recent days happens to be avoiding investigation of cases against those in favour of the Central Government and dig up cases against those in opposition to it.
THE ISSUES PEOPLE SHALL KNOW.
Nava Kerala March is now in Palakkad district. The concluding program on Tuesday was at Pattambi. Though the need for immediate Central Government programs of rehabilitation of Malayalees compulsorily returned from the foreign countries on account of the global capitalist crisis was the prime issue presented in the media meet, no questions were heard raised on this. The practice of generating controversies and making it the prime news by side tracking the real issues affecting the people which the society has to immediately address will not be beneficial to the society nor can it be acceptable. As there is narrow vested political interest behind generating the unnecessary controversies and as the people realise what is going on, it needs no elaboration. As we usually say, it is the people who give fitting reply to the vicious campaign on the controversies unleashed against the party. The best reply for the controversy mongers is the unbelievable success of this march that becomes stronger day by day with the massive participation of the people.
The vicious campaign against the LDF government of Kerala unleashed by the Congres and the UDF has also to be viewed in this context. On one side the state government is immobilised, hurdles for its functioning are created and it is starved of funds by and in collaboration with the central government usurping its powers and resources. On the other side LDF is accused pointing out the programs remaining incomplete due to the denial of central assistance. This is what is attempted by the opposition.
The Common Minimum Program adopted by the UPA was putting forward the idea of devolution of more power to the state governments. The attitude of the Central Government is of usurping even the existing powers. The Poonch Committee appointed to study on the central-state relations has decided its main terms of reference as to what can be done in the finance sector. But bringing the interstate river disputes to the ambit of the Central Government, Formation of Central Police Force, Powers for the Central Government to intervene in the law and order issue of the states in the event of riots and such other emergencies, strengthening of district level planning system, direct funding for the districts from the central government etc are the the directions given by the UPA government. The powers of the state is not going to increase by these measures. Even the meagre powers already having will be lost.
The 13th Finance Commission has enquired into how best finance distribution can be made to speed up the new reforms. It is the constitutional right of the state governments to get assistance from central revenues. To impose policy level conditions for the central assistance is against the federal principles. Central Government is trying to walk back, to the situation arose on 64th and 65th Constitution Amendments which concentrated power in the centre from 74th and 75th Amendments which devolved some powers to the state, through the proceedings of 13th Finance Commission. Central Government is proposing to give assistance to Local Self Government institutions directly. 11th Five year plan is formulated giving prominence to centrally sponsored schemes. Central Government is formulating its own plans in areas earmarked to states. Finance commission had agreed to the suggestion of state governments to give such funds as plan assistance to the states. But the Central Government is interested to move just in the opposit direction.
The conditions of centrally sponsored schemes are against the interest of the states. As the social welfare indices of the state are far higher compared to other states and hence share of central schemes available to the state will be meagre. Central Government is not prepared to concede the demand of LDF Government that the share for the state has to be fixed considering the peculiar problems of the state as well. Share of the state is continuously being slashed in the allocation of funds made by successive Finance Commissions. When 3.9% of central taxes were available to the state at the time of 10th Finance Commission, it was just 2.7% now with the 13th commission. Loss inflicted on the state is very heavy. Kerala is having only 2.5% of Central Public Sector investments. The tightening of the debt ratio of Kerala by the Centre also is affecting the finances of the state. State Government is also not given the freedom to mobilise internal loan in place of the external loan component. Thus the freedom of the state government to have its finance planned is being controlled by the Centre. These are the types of real problems faced by the people of the state that are to be understood and responded to by the people. Such are the problems being placed before the people by us through this march. It is not because of any other intention that we are repeatedly telling the people that the superfluous controversies generated by the Congress and UDF are meant to cover up these real issues.
The vicious campaign against the LDF government of Kerala unleashed by the Congres and the UDF has also to be viewed in this context. On one side the state government is immobilised, hurdles for its functioning are created and it is starved of funds by and in collaboration with the central government usurping its powers and resources. On the other side LDF is accused pointing out the programs remaining incomplete due to the denial of central assistance. This is what is attempted by the opposition.
The Common Minimum Program adopted by the UPA was putting forward the idea of devolution of more power to the state governments. The attitude of the Central Government is of usurping even the existing powers. The Poonch Committee appointed to study on the central-state relations has decided its main terms of reference as to what can be done in the finance sector. But bringing the interstate river disputes to the ambit of the Central Government, Formation of Central Police Force, Powers for the Central Government to intervene in the law and order issue of the states in the event of riots and such other emergencies, strengthening of district level planning system, direct funding for the districts from the central government etc are the the directions given by the UPA government. The powers of the state is not going to increase by these measures. Even the meagre powers already having will be lost.
The 13th Finance Commission has enquired into how best finance distribution can be made to speed up the new reforms. It is the constitutional right of the state governments to get assistance from central revenues. To impose policy level conditions for the central assistance is against the federal principles. Central Government is trying to walk back, to the situation arose on 64th and 65th Constitution Amendments which concentrated power in the centre from 74th and 75th Amendments which devolved some powers to the state, through the proceedings of 13th Finance Commission. Central Government is proposing to give assistance to Local Self Government institutions directly. 11th Five year plan is formulated giving prominence to centrally sponsored schemes. Central Government is formulating its own plans in areas earmarked to states. Finance commission had agreed to the suggestion of state governments to give such funds as plan assistance to the states. But the Central Government is interested to move just in the opposit direction.
The conditions of centrally sponsored schemes are against the interest of the states. As the social welfare indices of the state are far higher compared to other states and hence share of central schemes available to the state will be meagre. Central Government is not prepared to concede the demand of LDF Government that the share for the state has to be fixed considering the peculiar problems of the state as well. Share of the state is continuously being slashed in the allocation of funds made by successive Finance Commissions. When 3.9% of central taxes were available to the state at the time of 10th Finance Commission, it was just 2.7% now with the 13th commission. Loss inflicted on the state is very heavy. Kerala is having only 2.5% of Central Public Sector investments. The tightening of the debt ratio of Kerala by the Centre also is affecting the finances of the state. State Government is also not given the freedom to mobilise internal loan in place of the external loan component. Thus the freedom of the state government to have its finance planned is being controlled by the Centre. These are the types of real problems faced by the people of the state that are to be understood and responded to by the people. Such are the problems being placed before the people by us through this march. It is not because of any other intention that we are repeatedly telling the people that the superfluous controversies generated by the Congress and UDF are meant to cover up these real issues.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Nava Kerala March in Palakkad district
After covering all the five northern districts of Kerala, march entered Palakkad district on 10-02-2009. The unprecedented response of the people of Malappuram proved beyond doubt that the CPI(M) has won the people of Malappuram to its side through the real issues already taken up and proposed to be attended unlike Congress and UDF which is shying away from the real issues of communalism and the sufferings of the people on account of the global financial crisis and imperialist exploitation and the policies of the UPA government by resorting to verbosity and controversies.
The bankruptcy of Congress.
Nava Kerala March has covered 5 districts by now. A sizable part of Kerala state is covered. What is seen so far during the period from 2nd to 10th February was the increased participation of the people in the march and the enhanced influence of the CPI(M) in the Malabar region. When the March enters Palghat district, what is experienced is the same or a bit increased participation an enthusiasm of the people. The march reached the Palghat border after a very great reception in the birth place of E M S.
CPI(M) is placing the life and death issues of the people before them. When we talk in the reception stage we are getting very keen response from the people. But, no worthwhile response is forthcoming from the Congress Party on the relevant political issues raised by us or on the serious issues being discussed by the people. The bankruptcy of the major political party in power at the centre and the chief opposition party in the state is being revealed with every passing day. Congress doesnot have any political agenda other than mustering support for the disintegrating UPA and depend on false propaganda and unnecessary controversies for the same.
Congress is in a pitiable condition of nursing the dream of single party rule even today. Once upon a time congress was able to come to power on its own. That situation ceased to exist due to the anti-people policies it has followed continuously over the period. It is retaining power through co-allition. The indication is that of the co-allition partners leaving the congress. The Samajvadi Party which came to the rescue of UPA when it landed in crisis over its plunge for the Nuclear Agreement with US is not in a position to continue with this alliance. NCP and the Lokjanasakthi of Ram Vilas Paswan also are not in good terms. Congress is seeking the vote for UPA with the declaration that it will come to power when its major component parties are about to leave. Indian Union Muslim League is the major supporter of Congres in Kerala. The pitiful condition of that party is felt by us during our tour in Malappuram district.
Division has appeared in the BJP lead NDA too. Constituent parties, one by one, have recorded their difference over the declaration of construction of Sreeram temple as its major agenda. Both the alliance of Congress as well as BJP are facing crisis.
It is in this context that the Left parties are taking the lead for the formation of a third alternative over the pro-people policies. Majority of people of India are against both Congress and BJP. Effort to give a political shape to this conducive situation is being taken by the Left uniting the secular parties. In the media meet we had at Tirur a correspondent has been repeatedly querying on the chances for BJP to come to power in the next elections. The answer given was that there is no chance for it. It is not a denial without basis. The non-congress-non-BJP parties are having upperhand in all of the major states in India. The contest is not between Congress and BJP in the state of UP which elects the highest number of Loksabha MPs. Third front constituents are having advantage in major states like West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu which send more members to the Loksabha. The chances of coming to power of an anti-communal and anti-imperialist broad alliance unifying these forces is increasing day by day. The trend prevailing in Indian politics is that of the shift of more and more parties to the third alternative as the UPA and NDA breakup. We are explaining such issues to the people in the Nava Kerala March. No more evidence is required to establish the bankruptcy of Congress than its shying away from the real issues and resorting to superfluous controversies and verbosity.
CPI(M) is placing the life and death issues of the people before them. When we talk in the reception stage we are getting very keen response from the people. But, no worthwhile response is forthcoming from the Congress Party on the relevant political issues raised by us or on the serious issues being discussed by the people. The bankruptcy of the major political party in power at the centre and the chief opposition party in the state is being revealed with every passing day. Congress doesnot have any political agenda other than mustering support for the disintegrating UPA and depend on false propaganda and unnecessary controversies for the same.
Congress is in a pitiable condition of nursing the dream of single party rule even today. Once upon a time congress was able to come to power on its own. That situation ceased to exist due to the anti-people policies it has followed continuously over the period. It is retaining power through co-allition. The indication is that of the co-allition partners leaving the congress. The Samajvadi Party which came to the rescue of UPA when it landed in crisis over its plunge for the Nuclear Agreement with US is not in a position to continue with this alliance. NCP and the Lokjanasakthi of Ram Vilas Paswan also are not in good terms. Congress is seeking the vote for UPA with the declaration that it will come to power when its major component parties are about to leave. Indian Union Muslim League is the major supporter of Congres in Kerala. The pitiful condition of that party is felt by us during our tour in Malappuram district.
Division has appeared in the BJP lead NDA too. Constituent parties, one by one, have recorded their difference over the declaration of construction of Sreeram temple as its major agenda. Both the alliance of Congress as well as BJP are facing crisis.
It is in this context that the Left parties are taking the lead for the formation of a third alternative over the pro-people policies. Majority of people of India are against both Congress and BJP. Effort to give a political shape to this conducive situation is being taken by the Left uniting the secular parties. In the media meet we had at Tirur a correspondent has been repeatedly querying on the chances for BJP to come to power in the next elections. The answer given was that there is no chance for it. It is not a denial without basis. The non-congress-non-BJP parties are having upperhand in all of the major states in India. The contest is not between Congress and BJP in the state of UP which elects the highest number of Loksabha MPs. Third front constituents are having advantage in major states like West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu which send more members to the Loksabha. The chances of coming to power of an anti-communal and anti-imperialist broad alliance unifying these forces is increasing day by day. The trend prevailing in Indian politics is that of the shift of more and more parties to the third alternative as the UPA and NDA breakup. We are explaining such issues to the people in the Nava Kerala March. No more evidence is required to establish the bankruptcy of Congress than its shying away from the real issues and resorting to superfluous controversies and verbosity.
Monday, February 9, 2009
A PERPLEXED MUSLIM LEAGUE
As the Nava Kerala March is advancing in Malappuram district, it is seen that the intolerance and panic of IUML is on the increase. The League which has become weak in all respects has lost the minimum decency a political party has to exhibit. The swing in the political stand of the people of Malappuram district which was once described as the fortress of Muslim League is sufficient reason for such a panic. Muslim League was found acting this way right from the day the state conference of CPI(M) was held in Malappuram. League fortresses were fallen and the LDF has advanced much in the last Loksabha, Panchayath and Assembly elections. That trend is continuing with more vigour.
The number of people participating in each meeting point of Nava Kerala March is the proof for the political change and hence gives sleepless nights for the League.
CPI(M) is increasing its support from the people not by any gimmicks but by earnest efforts to take up and solve the real issues facing people. The blatant lies spread by the League and its misdeeds to tarnish the image of the Nava Kerala March in Malappuram is the evidence for the fact that the League has not yet understood the real reason for the growth of CPI(M) as its pro-people programs and that people cannot be fooled for long by communal, parochial and such other narrow issues. But, the march that covered the 12 constituencies of the district has proved that such oppositions has only made the party workers and the mass of people who keep the party in high esteem more enthusiastic.
League is mere on lookers when the globalisation makes the life of the people miserable. But, the government led by the CPI(M) is trying to formulate and implement alternate policies within the limitations. The results are visible in the state. The intervention in agriculture sector could arrest the suicide tendency among the farmers in the state. Rs. 80.31 Crores could be brought to the government exchequer as a result of the measures taken to strengthen the Public Sector Units by renovating them. The government has strengthened and spread its welfare measures to more areas as against the globalisation policy of curtailing the welfare activities. The decision to raise the welfare pensions to Rs. 200 was part of this measure. The shops and establishment act is yet another one. Government has finalised the project for constructing and providing seven lakh (7,00,000) new houses. Rs. 5000 Crores is set apart for providing house-plots and constructing houses for those belonging to schedule casts and scheduled tribes. As part of it, government has decided to make the EMS housing scheme more effective one with people's participation. This period has witnessed a number of initiatives in health and education sectors to improve the quality. Government has taken measures on a war footing to salvage the state from the financial crisis which it was reeling under. Efficient intervention to control the price-rise when it was shooting up due to the policies of the Central Government including the petroleum price hike. The program for devolution of power could be guided in the correct direction.
Government has engaged itself in measures to get the due share of resources from the Central Government. Coach Factory at Palghat, Vizhinjam project, Vallarpadam container terminal etc are part of this. Government was able to finalise the smart city project too. Tens of thousands of fishermen could be saved from the days of starvation. The law and order situation was streamlined so that the state could be freed from communal clashes and cities saved from anti-social elements. Policy for breaking the very base of terrorism was initiated. The period has witnessed quantum leap forward in new development areas including tourism. As mentioned earlier, what the CPI(M) and LDF is trying is not to swim with the current as the proponents of globalisation but to formulate alternate policies and programs by weathering the adverse conditions created by it. These are not issues that could be understood by League. They are continuing the old track of creating political mileage by organising the people on emotional platforms by repeatedly spreading lies. The shameless attempt of League in generating controversy over the initiative of LDF government to set up the Off Campus Centre of Aligarh Muslim University in Malappuram district is part of this attitude. The emerging picture of Malappuram is that of the people realising and responding to such crookedness. It is sure that this response of the people is unbearable to the Indian Union Muslim League.
The number of people participating in each meeting point of Nava Kerala March is the proof for the political change and hence gives sleepless nights for the League.
CPI(M) is increasing its support from the people not by any gimmicks but by earnest efforts to take up and solve the real issues facing people. The blatant lies spread by the League and its misdeeds to tarnish the image of the Nava Kerala March in Malappuram is the evidence for the fact that the League has not yet understood the real reason for the growth of CPI(M) as its pro-people programs and that people cannot be fooled for long by communal, parochial and such other narrow issues. But, the march that covered the 12 constituencies of the district has proved that such oppositions has only made the party workers and the mass of people who keep the party in high esteem more enthusiastic.
League is mere on lookers when the globalisation makes the life of the people miserable. But, the government led by the CPI(M) is trying to formulate and implement alternate policies within the limitations. The results are visible in the state. The intervention in agriculture sector could arrest the suicide tendency among the farmers in the state. Rs. 80.31 Crores could be brought to the government exchequer as a result of the measures taken to strengthen the Public Sector Units by renovating them. The government has strengthened and spread its welfare measures to more areas as against the globalisation policy of curtailing the welfare activities. The decision to raise the welfare pensions to Rs. 200 was part of this measure. The shops and establishment act is yet another one. Government has finalised the project for constructing and providing seven lakh (7,00,000) new houses. Rs. 5000 Crores is set apart for providing house-plots and constructing houses for those belonging to schedule casts and scheduled tribes. As part of it, government has decided to make the EMS housing scheme more effective one with people's participation. This period has witnessed a number of initiatives in health and education sectors to improve the quality. Government has taken measures on a war footing to salvage the state from the financial crisis which it was reeling under. Efficient intervention to control the price-rise when it was shooting up due to the policies of the Central Government including the petroleum price hike. The program for devolution of power could be guided in the correct direction.
Government has engaged itself in measures to get the due share of resources from the Central Government. Coach Factory at Palghat, Vizhinjam project, Vallarpadam container terminal etc are part of this. Government was able to finalise the smart city project too. Tens of thousands of fishermen could be saved from the days of starvation. The law and order situation was streamlined so that the state could be freed from communal clashes and cities saved from anti-social elements. Policy for breaking the very base of terrorism was initiated. The period has witnessed quantum leap forward in new development areas including tourism. As mentioned earlier, what the CPI(M) and LDF is trying is not to swim with the current as the proponents of globalisation but to formulate alternate policies and programs by weathering the adverse conditions created by it. These are not issues that could be understood by League. They are continuing the old track of creating political mileage by organising the people on emotional platforms by repeatedly spreading lies. The shameless attempt of League in generating controversy over the initiative of LDF government to set up the Off Campus Centre of Aligarh Muslim University in Malappuram district is part of this attitude. The emerging picture of Malappuram is that of the people realising and responding to such crookedness. It is sure that this response of the people is unbearable to the Indian Union Muslim League.
Nava Kerala March in Malappuram.
Nava Kerala March covered 4 districts and entered Malappuram. People of Malappuram, especially the youth, receives the march with increased enthusiasm. They move with the march on there own on two wheelers, often adverturously. Reception at every centre is organised with unique programs.The message is that the transformation of Malappuram is complete.
Enhanced enthusiasm in Malappuram
Nava Kerala March is in Malappuram. Experience here is a bit different from the first four districts that covered. Last two days were in Kozhikode district. Unbelievable crowd in each centre. The concluding programs on both days were equivalent to district level rallies. The program at Kozhikode Beach was jointly organised by the two constituencies in Kozhikode city. Increased participation of women was noticeable everywhere. Women are not only coming to greet the march but also was participating in the meeting keenly listening to the speaches.
The special experience of Malappuram was the enthusiasm visible among the people especially the youth. Hundreds of youth were found moving, often adventurously, along with the march. Reception in each centre was organised with unique programs. There was heavy turnout of people in all the centres from the first reception point in Malappuram district at Aikkarappady to the concluding session at Tirur. The crowd was such that it couldnot be counted to compare the participation. The unprecedented participation of people was giving a feeling that transformation of Malappuram is complete.
One of the important slogan of Nava Kerala March is “Secure India”. Security of the nation depends on many factors. A correct foreign policy is one among them. When the speakers describe the recent deviations in foreign policy and their far reaching adverse implications, the attention and response of the people were very keen. The pro-imperialist and pro-zionist approach was one that was explained. Israel is brutally attacking the Palestinians. Universities, Hospitals and kindergartens were attacked. During the recent attack more than one thousand palestinians were killed. Israel has not allowed even rescrue operators to enter the death devastated Gasa.
Israel gets support and strength from US. The remaining days of Bush has provided favourable situation for Israel to do any thing they wish against Palestine. The Indian policy was not one that approves the killing of Palestinians by Israel. Governments under Nehru and Indira Gandhi was not willing for any sort of relation with Israel. But the present UPA government has not only established diplomatic relations with Israel but also has made India the largest market of Israeli arms. Israel has exported arms worth $.276 Crores during 2002-2006. Out of that $.150 Crores were purchased by India. India has launched the Israeli satellite that is used to mark the populated areas for killing the Palestinians. The political parties including the Left has demanded that all relations with Israel shall be severed in the context of this dastardly attack. But, the defence minister has declared that the Government is not prepared for that. The presentation of memento by a state minister of the UDF to the visiting Israei Prime Minister may be recollected.
Congress is leading the UPA government that converts India into an ally of Israel that sheds blood in Palestine and a the US that organise massive killing in Iraq and Afghanistan while making India to serve the US interests. The very same congress in collaboration with Indian Union Muslim League is trying to hide these important issues from the attention of the people through nefarious means. Congres and the IUML are unable to face and answer the people on issues like assistance to Israel, Nuclear Co-operation Agreement, Strategic alliance with the US, Military co-operation, Indian stand against Iran at the instance of the US etc. The All India president of IUML is a minister in the Central government. The government in which he is a member is moving opposite to what league says the people. League president stands a witness and ally to all these. Realising the double standard, more and more supporters of IUML, once carrying the green flag, are volunteering to carry the red flag enthusiastically. People are crowding to greet the Nava Kerala March with enhanced enthusiasm in realisation of the fact that it is the CPI(M) that takes the correct stand in the issues affecting the people and that the congres and IUML is engaged in anti-people and power politics. This wave of enthusiasm makes the reception centres in Malappuram shining.
The special experience of Malappuram was the enthusiasm visible among the people especially the youth. Hundreds of youth were found moving, often adventurously, along with the march. Reception in each centre was organised with unique programs. There was heavy turnout of people in all the centres from the first reception point in Malappuram district at Aikkarappady to the concluding session at Tirur. The crowd was such that it couldnot be counted to compare the participation. The unprecedented participation of people was giving a feeling that transformation of Malappuram is complete.
One of the important slogan of Nava Kerala March is “Secure India”. Security of the nation depends on many factors. A correct foreign policy is one among them. When the speakers describe the recent deviations in foreign policy and their far reaching adverse implications, the attention and response of the people were very keen. The pro-imperialist and pro-zionist approach was one that was explained. Israel is brutally attacking the Palestinians. Universities, Hospitals and kindergartens were attacked. During the recent attack more than one thousand palestinians were killed. Israel has not allowed even rescrue operators to enter the death devastated Gasa.
Israel gets support and strength from US. The remaining days of Bush has provided favourable situation for Israel to do any thing they wish against Palestine. The Indian policy was not one that approves the killing of Palestinians by Israel. Governments under Nehru and Indira Gandhi was not willing for any sort of relation with Israel. But the present UPA government has not only established diplomatic relations with Israel but also has made India the largest market of Israeli arms. Israel has exported arms worth $.276 Crores during 2002-2006. Out of that $.150 Crores were purchased by India. India has launched the Israeli satellite that is used to mark the populated areas for killing the Palestinians. The political parties including the Left has demanded that all relations with Israel shall be severed in the context of this dastardly attack. But, the defence minister has declared that the Government is not prepared for that. The presentation of memento by a state minister of the UDF to the visiting Israei Prime Minister may be recollected.
Congress is leading the UPA government that converts India into an ally of Israel that sheds blood in Palestine and a the US that organise massive killing in Iraq and Afghanistan while making India to serve the US interests. The very same congress in collaboration with Indian Union Muslim League is trying to hide these important issues from the attention of the people through nefarious means. Congres and the IUML are unable to face and answer the people on issues like assistance to Israel, Nuclear Co-operation Agreement, Strategic alliance with the US, Military co-operation, Indian stand against Iran at the instance of the US etc. The All India president of IUML is a minister in the Central government. The government in which he is a member is moving opposite to what league says the people. League president stands a witness and ally to all these. Realising the double standard, more and more supporters of IUML, once carrying the green flag, are volunteering to carry the red flag enthusiastically. People are crowding to greet the Nava Kerala March with enhanced enthusiasm in realisation of the fact that it is the CPI(M) that takes the correct stand in the issues affecting the people and that the congres and IUML is engaged in anti-people and power politics. This wave of enthusiasm makes the reception centres in Malappuram shining.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Taliban in Saffron
One of the important issue dealt in the media meet at Mukkam on Friday was about attack of the communal out fit sreerama sena in a facist style. The threat posed by this new outfit and its leader Pramod Muthalik under the sangha parivar umbrella undermines not only the cultural heritage of the land but also the basic principles of democracy. The roguery meted out to the daughter of Mancheswaram MLA and CPI(M) leader C H Kunhambu in Mangaluru can only be termed as mere barbarism. Morality of our children is not something that is lost if talked to brother of a schoolmate while travelling in a bus. People of this country cannot be indifferent to the facist dictates that friendship and fraternity shall be based on religion. This is nothing but terrorism under the cover of religion. It is saffronised talibanism. It has to be countered by all means. Every body has to be vigilant against the entry of such barbarianism in Kerala state.
Unfortunately, UDF is taking a stand of promoting and encouraging the growth of communalism and their political outfits. That alliance is coming to power by purchasing the votes of RSS and other fundamentalist forces. Because of this, communal clashes used to be a regular feature of UDF rule. 79 communal clashes occurred during the last UDF government. 18 people were killed in them.
Nava Kerala March was greeted in the Beypore constituency in which the Marad region is situated. Hundreds of people from Marad participated in the reception organised at Feroke Petta. Participation was above average. Marad is a wound scar of Kerala. The wrong attitude of the then UDF government was one of the critical factors that led to the Marad incident. UDF was not vigilant even to get the chargesheet filed. Preventive measures were not taken despite the advance information from the local MLA and the intelligence wing. It may also be noted that the UDF government couldnot intervene effectively to deal with the situation in which the minority community was made to vacate the area by the RSS, subsequent to the killing spree organised by muslim fundamentalists, due to its cordial relations with the communal outfits. All the while, it was CPI(M) which worked to mitigate the sufferings of the people. The first rescue shelter itself was that of CPI(M).
The then Chief Minister spoke in favour of saffronisation. Deliberate propaganda was made that those belonging the minority community are rich. The distribution of “Trisul” by the Viswa Hindu Parishad was not prevented. Pravin Thogadia was received as state guest. The then UDF government was generous in pampering the minority communalism as well. UDF has adopted a policy to ignore the cases in which NDF members were the accused. It is the UDF attitude that ensures, even though limited, existence of the NDF. UDF has made it a practice to pamper the majority as well as minority communal forces alternately.
It was the unambiguous stand of the LDF government against the communal forces that resulted in preventing any communal flare up during its period. The LDF government of 1996-2001 has taken stern actions to control the activities of communal forces. The conspiracy to kill the chief minister Com. E K Nayanar, the instances of assassinations and attacks organised by certain organisation in connection with al-umma, activities of some people having foreign connections etc could be effectively enquired into and culprits identified. When UDF came to power in 2001, the situation turned upside down. That was the period when communal, casteist and vested interest groups had their say.
The LDF government that came to power in 2006 has taken stern stand against communalism. It is able to strongly deal with minority communalism while preventing the flare up attempted by majority communalism. Kerala is not a haven of terrorists as propagated by some. At the same time the fact that national situation has its reflections in Kerala too shall not go unnoticed. The Government machinary alone shall not be sufficient to deal with such problems. The organised strength of the people has to be mobilised. The slogan raised in the Nava Kerala March, “Secure India”, is to stress the need for building the mass movement against communal and extremist forces. It is evident from the enthusiasm shown by various sections of the people coming to greet the march that they are taking this slogan and the message to their heart. It is the continuous vigilance of the people and the communists that assures that there is no space for the roguery like that of sree rama sena in the Kerala soil.
Unfortunately, UDF is taking a stand of promoting and encouraging the growth of communalism and their political outfits. That alliance is coming to power by purchasing the votes of RSS and other fundamentalist forces. Because of this, communal clashes used to be a regular feature of UDF rule. 79 communal clashes occurred during the last UDF government. 18 people were killed in them.
Nava Kerala March was greeted in the Beypore constituency in which the Marad region is situated. Hundreds of people from Marad participated in the reception organised at Feroke Petta. Participation was above average. Marad is a wound scar of Kerala. The wrong attitude of the then UDF government was one of the critical factors that led to the Marad incident. UDF was not vigilant even to get the chargesheet filed. Preventive measures were not taken despite the advance information from the local MLA and the intelligence wing. It may also be noted that the UDF government couldnot intervene effectively to deal with the situation in which the minority community was made to vacate the area by the RSS, subsequent to the killing spree organised by muslim fundamentalists, due to its cordial relations with the communal outfits. All the while, it was CPI(M) which worked to mitigate the sufferings of the people. The first rescue shelter itself was that of CPI(M).
The then Chief Minister spoke in favour of saffronisation. Deliberate propaganda was made that those belonging the minority community are rich. The distribution of “Trisul” by the Viswa Hindu Parishad was not prevented. Pravin Thogadia was received as state guest. The then UDF government was generous in pampering the minority communalism as well. UDF has adopted a policy to ignore the cases in which NDF members were the accused. It is the UDF attitude that ensures, even though limited, existence of the NDF. UDF has made it a practice to pamper the majority as well as minority communal forces alternately.
It was the unambiguous stand of the LDF government against the communal forces that resulted in preventing any communal flare up during its period. The LDF government of 1996-2001 has taken stern actions to control the activities of communal forces. The conspiracy to kill the chief minister Com. E K Nayanar, the instances of assassinations and attacks organised by certain organisation in connection with al-umma, activities of some people having foreign connections etc could be effectively enquired into and culprits identified. When UDF came to power in 2001, the situation turned upside down. That was the period when communal, casteist and vested interest groups had their say.
The LDF government that came to power in 2006 has taken stern stand against communalism. It is able to strongly deal with minority communalism while preventing the flare up attempted by majority communalism. Kerala is not a haven of terrorists as propagated by some. At the same time the fact that national situation has its reflections in Kerala too shall not go unnoticed. The Government machinary alone shall not be sufficient to deal with such problems. The organised strength of the people has to be mobilised. The slogan raised in the Nava Kerala March, “Secure India”, is to stress the need for building the mass movement against communal and extremist forces. It is evident from the enthusiasm shown by various sections of the people coming to greet the march that they are taking this slogan and the message to their heart. It is the continuous vigilance of the people and the communists that assures that there is no space for the roguery like that of sree rama sena in the Kerala soil.
Problems affecting the people
Nava Kerala March is now in Kozhikode district. What is witnessed in the march through out Kozhikode is an increased confluence of people than that of the unprecedented one of Wayanad district. Elders in the party and the members of martyr families were available in all the venues, confidently weathering all the adverse conditions and even physical attacks. All the participants of the march are emotionally overwhelmed when mothers who fed the revolutionary heroes are coming forward to bless the march.
Former comrades who were beedi workers were met in centres like Thalassery. They are the ones with the movement through out its ups and downs. Their face reflected their determination that they are coming not only for making the march a success but also for defending the party from the attacks it is facing. The problems faced by beedi workers are umpteen. The crisis of beedi industry has affected thousands of families. All the units in this sector, including Dinesh Beedi, is in difficulty. Tens of thousands of beedi workers are finding it difficult to pass each day. LDF government is duty bound to protect them. Measures from Central and State Governments to rehabilitate the beedi workers is overdue.
Massive participation of farmers are witnessed all these days. Many problems of agrarian sector including that of the Crisis of pepper farmers have drawn the attention of the march. The root cause of agrarian crisis is the very wrong policies. Central Govt is doing away with subsidies for seeds and fertilizers. Import liberalisation leads to the situation where farmers are not getting reasonable prices for our products.
It is this policy that converted Indian farming sector into a scene of mass scale suicide of the farmers. Central Govt was compelled to declare certain packages only over the pressure from the people increased due to the prevailing situation. But the problems are such that it couldnot be solved by packages. What is important is the need to change the policy itself. Left parties are fighting for changing this policy.
But, Manmohan govt is going ahead with more harmful policies. The seed bill introduced by the Manmohan Govt leads the agriculture sector to its ruin. This bill takes away the right of the farmers to produce, sell, exchange or barter. Production of all sorts of seeds will be brought under the monopoly of the corporates. Seed prices will shoot up. Govt is not inclined even to amend the provisions in accordance with the recommendations of the parliament standing committee. Bill is only kept in abeyance on the face of stiff resistance from the left parties.
The final report of the National Agricultural Commission is before the UPA government. The report puts forward the recommendations like one acre of land for each of the landless farmers, reduced interest rates for agricultural loans, spreading the public distribution network, formation of a price stabilisation fund to arrest the price fall of agricultural produces, determination of institutional loans, bringing interest rate below 4% etc. But the UPA lead Central Government is sticking on to its cosmetic touches with packages instead of implementing the report.
The neglect and indifference shown by the UPA government towards the agricultural sector is an injustice to the nation as a whole. The challenges of food security can only be faced by addressing the basic issues faced by agricultural sector. Nava Kerala March is bring such lively issues to the attention of the people. A question raised in the media meet organised just before the commencement of march at Mukkam was whether the march is deviating from the declared slogans. All the speakers in the march are explaining various issues faced by the nation and the state and the stand of the party thereon based on the slogan “Secure India, Prosperous State”. The question was one that could be raised by those looking for controversy ignoring the real issues placed by the speakers. But, no such doubts are there for the thousands of people who receives the march with enthusiasm. They are listening to the problems faced by them even by weathering the sun for hours together. It is evident from the experience, so far, that this will become the biggest ever mass political education program Kerala has ever witnessed, by the time it is concluded at Trivandrum on 25-02-2009.
Former comrades who were beedi workers were met in centres like Thalassery. They are the ones with the movement through out its ups and downs. Their face reflected their determination that they are coming not only for making the march a success but also for defending the party from the attacks it is facing. The problems faced by beedi workers are umpteen. The crisis of beedi industry has affected thousands of families. All the units in this sector, including Dinesh Beedi, is in difficulty. Tens of thousands of beedi workers are finding it difficult to pass each day. LDF government is duty bound to protect them. Measures from Central and State Governments to rehabilitate the beedi workers is overdue.
Massive participation of farmers are witnessed all these days. Many problems of agrarian sector including that of the Crisis of pepper farmers have drawn the attention of the march. The root cause of agrarian crisis is the very wrong policies. Central Govt is doing away with subsidies for seeds and fertilizers. Import liberalisation leads to the situation where farmers are not getting reasonable prices for our products.
It is this policy that converted Indian farming sector into a scene of mass scale suicide of the farmers. Central Govt was compelled to declare certain packages only over the pressure from the people increased due to the prevailing situation. But the problems are such that it couldnot be solved by packages. What is important is the need to change the policy itself. Left parties are fighting for changing this policy.
But, Manmohan govt is going ahead with more harmful policies. The seed bill introduced by the Manmohan Govt leads the agriculture sector to its ruin. This bill takes away the right of the farmers to produce, sell, exchange or barter. Production of all sorts of seeds will be brought under the monopoly of the corporates. Seed prices will shoot up. Govt is not inclined even to amend the provisions in accordance with the recommendations of the parliament standing committee. Bill is only kept in abeyance on the face of stiff resistance from the left parties.
The final report of the National Agricultural Commission is before the UPA government. The report puts forward the recommendations like one acre of land for each of the landless farmers, reduced interest rates for agricultural loans, spreading the public distribution network, formation of a price stabilisation fund to arrest the price fall of agricultural produces, determination of institutional loans, bringing interest rate below 4% etc. But the UPA lead Central Government is sticking on to its cosmetic touches with packages instead of implementing the report.
The neglect and indifference shown by the UPA government towards the agricultural sector is an injustice to the nation as a whole. The challenges of food security can only be faced by addressing the basic issues faced by agricultural sector. Nava Kerala March is bring such lively issues to the attention of the people. A question raised in the media meet organised just before the commencement of march at Mukkam was whether the march is deviating from the declared slogans. All the speakers in the march are explaining various issues faced by the nation and the state and the stand of the party thereon based on the slogan “Secure India, Prosperous State”. The question was one that could be raised by those looking for controversy ignoring the real issues placed by the speakers. But, no such doubts are there for the thousands of people who receives the march with enthusiasm. They are listening to the problems faced by them even by weathering the sun for hours together. It is evident from the experience, so far, that this will become the biggest ever mass political education program Kerala has ever witnessed, by the time it is concluded at Trivandrum on 25-02-2009.
ഉയരുന്നത് നേരിന്റെ കടലിരമ്പം.
രാഷ്ട്രീയകേരളത്തിന്റെ സിരാപടലങ്ങളില് ആവേശാഗ്നിയായി പടര്ന്നുകയറുന്ന മഹാജനപ്രവാഹം. നവകേരള മാര്ച്ച് ജനമുന്നേറ്റത്തിന്റെ എല്ലാ റെക്കോഡും ഭേദിക്കുകയാണ്. പ്രസ്ഥാനത്തിനെതിരെയുള്ള അപവാദപ്രചാരണങ്ങള്ക്കും കടന്നാക്രമണങ്ങള്ക്കും ഈ ജനസാഗരം മറുപടി നല്കുന്നു. മൂന്നുവര്ഷംമുമ്പാണ് ഇതേ വീഥികളിലൂടെ പിണറായി വിജയന്റെ നേതൃത്വത്തില് കേരള മാര്ച്ച് കടന്നുപോയത്. അന്നുകണ്ടതിന്റെ പലമടങ്ങ് ആവേശം; നിശ്ചയദാര്ഢ്യം- കമ്യൂണിസ്റ്റ് പ്രസ്ഥാനത്തെ വേട്ടയാടി നശിപ്പിക്കാനാകില്ലെന്ന് കടലിരമ്പം പോലെ ഈ സംഘശക്തി പ്രഖ്യാപിക്കുന്നു.
nava_peralassery
കറുത്തശക്തികള്ക്കുമുന്നില് ചെങ്കൊടി താഴ്ത്തില്ലെന്ന് നെഞ്ചുവിരിച്ച് പറയുന്നു. സിപിഐ എം ആര്ജിച്ച അതുല്യശക്തിയാണ് ഉദ്ഘാടന സമ്മേളനം വിളിച്ചോതിയത്. തുടര്ന്നുള്ള ഓരോ സ്വീകരണത്തിലും അഭൂതപൂര്വമായ ജനക്കൂട്ടം. പഴയകാലപ്രവര്ത്തകര് വാര്ധക്യത്തിന്റെ അവശതകള് കൂട്ടാക്കാതെ എത്തുന്ന കാഴ്ച. കൃഷിക്കാരും കര്ഷകത്തൊഴിലാളികളും ഒന്നടങ്കം എത്തുന്നു- പലരും പൊരിവെയിലില് കിലോമീറ്ററുകള് താണ്ടിയാണ് വരുന്നത്. യുവാക്കളുടെ സംഘങ്ങള് ബൈക്കുകളിലും ചെറുവാഹനങ്ങളിലുമായി ആരും തീരുമാനിക്കാതെതന്നെ മാര്ച്ചിനെ അനുഗമിക്കുന്നു. ജാഥാനേതാവ് പിണറായി വിജയന് സ്വീകരണവേദിയിലെത്തുമ്പോള്, തൊഴിലാളിവര്ഗ പ്രസ്ഥാനത്തിന്റെ ധീരനായകനോടുള്ള ഐക്യദാര്ഢ്യപ്രഖ്യാപനമായി ഉശിരന് മുദ്രാവാക്യങ്ങള്. ബുധനാഴ്ച ശ്രീകണ്ഠാപുരത്തെ സ്വീകരണപ്പന്തലില് അനേകം ചെങ്കൊടികള് ഒരുമിച്ച് വീശിയാണ് പിണറായിയെ സ്വീകരിച്ചത്. സുരക്ഷിത ഇന്ത്യ എന്ന ലക്ഷ്യത്തിന് വിഷംതീണ്ടാന് ഫണമുയര്ത്തിനില്ക്കുന്ന വര്ഗീയതയെയും രാഷ്ട്രത്തിന്റെ ദുരിതങ്ങള്ക്ക് കാര്മികത്വം വഹിക്കുന്ന കോഗ്രസിനെയും പൊള്ളുന്ന വാക്കുകളില് വിചാരണചെയ്യുന്നു ജാഥാംഗങ്ങള്. ഐശ്വര്യകേരളമെന്ന മലയാളിയുടെ ഉദാത്തസ്വപ്നത്തിനുനേരെ സങ്കുചിത-പ്രാദേശിക വികാരങ്ങളുടെ കരിങ്കല്ചീളുകള് വലിച്ചെറിയുന്നവരെയും തുറന്നുകാട്ടുന്നു. ഇ പി ജയരാജനാണ് ജാഥാ മാനേജര്. എ വിജയരാഘവന്, എം വി ഗോവിന്ദന്, ടി എന് സീമ, കെ ടി ജലീല് എന്നിവര് അംഗങ്ങള്. ആസൂത്രിതമായി ഉല്പ്പാദിപ്പിക്കപ്പെടുന്ന അപവാദപ്രചാരണങ്ങളുടെ ദുഷ്ടലക്ഷ്യവും ഇടതുപക്ഷത്തിന്റെ പ്രസക്തിയും രാജ്യത്തെ രക്ഷിക്കാനുള്ള ഇടതുപക്ഷ ബദലിന്റെ അനിവാര്യതയും ലളിതമായി വിശദീകരിക്കുന്ന പ്രസംഗങ്ങള്. മൂന്നുകൊല്ലം മുമ്പത്തെ കേരള മാര്ച്ച് ആവേശത്തിന്റെ കൊടുമുടിയിലെത്തിയത് മലപ്പുറം ജില്ലയില് കടന്നപ്പോഴായിരുന്നു. ആ മാര്ച്ചിനുശേഷം നടന്ന തെരഞ്ഞെടുപ്പില് മലപ്പുറം ജില്ലയില് ചുവന്ന പ്രഭാതം വിരഞ്ഞു. ഇക്കുറി തുടക്കംമുതല്തന്നെ ആവേശത്തിന്റെ ആര്ത്തിരമ്പല്. 140 മണ്ഡലത്തില് പര്യടനം പൂര്ത്തിയാകുമ്പോള് ഏറ്റവും ഉശിരാര്ന്ന പ്രസ്ഥാനമെന്ന് കേരളചരിത്രത്തില് മാര്ച്ച് അടയാളപ്പെടുത്തും.
nava_peralassery
കറുത്തശക്തികള്ക്കുമുന്നില് ചെങ്കൊടി താഴ്ത്തില്ലെന്ന് നെഞ്ചുവിരിച്ച് പറയുന്നു. സിപിഐ എം ആര്ജിച്ച അതുല്യശക്തിയാണ് ഉദ്ഘാടന സമ്മേളനം വിളിച്ചോതിയത്. തുടര്ന്നുള്ള ഓരോ സ്വീകരണത്തിലും അഭൂതപൂര്വമായ ജനക്കൂട്ടം. പഴയകാലപ്രവര്ത്തകര് വാര്ധക്യത്തിന്റെ അവശതകള് കൂട്ടാക്കാതെ എത്തുന്ന കാഴ്ച. കൃഷിക്കാരും കര്ഷകത്തൊഴിലാളികളും ഒന്നടങ്കം എത്തുന്നു- പലരും പൊരിവെയിലില് കിലോമീറ്ററുകള് താണ്ടിയാണ് വരുന്നത്. യുവാക്കളുടെ സംഘങ്ങള് ബൈക്കുകളിലും ചെറുവാഹനങ്ങളിലുമായി ആരും തീരുമാനിക്കാതെതന്നെ മാര്ച്ചിനെ അനുഗമിക്കുന്നു. ജാഥാനേതാവ് പിണറായി വിജയന് സ്വീകരണവേദിയിലെത്തുമ്പോള്, തൊഴിലാളിവര്ഗ പ്രസ്ഥാനത്തിന്റെ ധീരനായകനോടുള്ള ഐക്യദാര്ഢ്യപ്രഖ്യാപനമായി ഉശിരന് മുദ്രാവാക്യങ്ങള്. ബുധനാഴ്ച ശ്രീകണ്ഠാപുരത്തെ സ്വീകരണപ്പന്തലില് അനേകം ചെങ്കൊടികള് ഒരുമിച്ച് വീശിയാണ് പിണറായിയെ സ്വീകരിച്ചത്. സുരക്ഷിത ഇന്ത്യ എന്ന ലക്ഷ്യത്തിന് വിഷംതീണ്ടാന് ഫണമുയര്ത്തിനില്ക്കുന്ന വര്ഗീയതയെയും രാഷ്ട്രത്തിന്റെ ദുരിതങ്ങള്ക്ക് കാര്മികത്വം വഹിക്കുന്ന കോഗ്രസിനെയും പൊള്ളുന്ന വാക്കുകളില് വിചാരണചെയ്യുന്നു ജാഥാംഗങ്ങള്. ഐശ്വര്യകേരളമെന്ന മലയാളിയുടെ ഉദാത്തസ്വപ്നത്തിനുനേരെ സങ്കുചിത-പ്രാദേശിക വികാരങ്ങളുടെ കരിങ്കല്ചീളുകള് വലിച്ചെറിയുന്നവരെയും തുറന്നുകാട്ടുന്നു. ഇ പി ജയരാജനാണ് ജാഥാ മാനേജര്. എ വിജയരാഘവന്, എം വി ഗോവിന്ദന്, ടി എന് സീമ, കെ ടി ജലീല് എന്നിവര് അംഗങ്ങള്. ആസൂത്രിതമായി ഉല്പ്പാദിപ്പിക്കപ്പെടുന്ന അപവാദപ്രചാരണങ്ങളുടെ ദുഷ്ടലക്ഷ്യവും ഇടതുപക്ഷത്തിന്റെ പ്രസക്തിയും രാജ്യത്തെ രക്ഷിക്കാനുള്ള ഇടതുപക്ഷ ബദലിന്റെ അനിവാര്യതയും ലളിതമായി വിശദീകരിക്കുന്ന പ്രസംഗങ്ങള്. മൂന്നുകൊല്ലം മുമ്പത്തെ കേരള മാര്ച്ച് ആവേശത്തിന്റെ കൊടുമുടിയിലെത്തിയത് മലപ്പുറം ജില്ലയില് കടന്നപ്പോഴായിരുന്നു. ആ മാര്ച്ചിനുശേഷം നടന്ന തെരഞ്ഞെടുപ്പില് മലപ്പുറം ജില്ലയില് ചുവന്ന പ്രഭാതം വിരഞ്ഞു. ഇക്കുറി തുടക്കംമുതല്തന്നെ ആവേശത്തിന്റെ ആര്ത്തിരമ്പല്. 140 മണ്ഡലത്തില് പര്യടനം പൂര്ത്തിയാകുമ്പോള് ഏറ്റവും ഉശിരാര്ന്ന പ്രസ്ഥാനമെന്ന് കേരളചരിത്രത്തില് മാര്ച്ച് അടയാളപ്പെടുത്തും.
Nava Kerala March in Kozhikode District
March covered Kotuvalli, Ullyeri, Perampra, Kallachi, Ayancheri & Vadakara on 06-02-2009, the 4th day of the march.
Program for 07-02-2009.
10.00 Am Koyilandi
11.00 Am Kakkoti
03.00 Pm Kundamangalam
04.30 Pm Feroke
06.00 Pm Kozhikode Beach
Program for 07-02-2009.
10.00 Am Koyilandi
11.00 Am Kakkoti
03.00 Pm Kundamangalam
04.30 Pm Feroke
06.00 Pm Kozhikode Beach
Farmers identify those who came to their rescue
Nava Kerala March has covered three northern states of Kerala. The enthusiasm among the people visible from the beginning is steadily on the increase. People are coming to receive the march from new areas, from those who are outside the party and even from those who worked against party till now. The famous teacher who was an active worker of Congress to the one who lead the anti-CPM work among the Adivasis have reached to receive the march in various centres in Kannur.
March entered Wayanad district on thursday afternoon. Adivasis came in very good number in the very first spot, Manantoddy itself. We have covered this very track three years back as part of Kerala march. Those were the days when the crisis in the agrarian sector was at its peak. What we received then in all the three reception spots were hundreds of representations wet with their tears. What we assured the farmers of Wayanad who had no alternative than to commit suicide due to the indifference of the then Govts at the state and the central, then, was that their problem will be the first to be considered if LDF comes to power.
In response to this assurance, LDF candidates were elected by the people of Wayanad in all the three constituencies. Even the areas known as UDF bastions have favoured the left. Now, when we reach here after three years, it can be read from the response being received from the people that the state government could fulfill the expectations of the people who reposed their faith in CPI(M) and LDF, to a great extend. Considerable relief could be extended to the farmers through measures taken by the Government even with all the constraints it faced.
During the UDF rule, 3 districts of Kerala were among the 36 districts where farmers committed suicide. As soon as the LDF Govt came to power it examined the problems of agrarian sector and took immediate measures to address them. Financial assistance of Rs.50,000 was extended to the family of those committed suicide. Their debts were waived. Moratorium was declared for the debts of farmers. Debts below Rs.25,000 was written off in Wayanad district as per the recommendations of Debt Relief Commission. 42113 families benefitted. Rs.51.30 Crores were thus written off in the first phase. Suicide spree in all the other 33 districts are continuing. Kerala districts are not in that list.
The stand taken by the UDF was that farmers didnot commit suicide due to debttrap. Because of this, Kerala lost Crores of central assistance. The stand of the Central Govt is still creating severe problems in agricultural sector. Central Govt and the Planning Commissions are not inclined to implement the much acclaimed Kuttanad package. All the requests for monsoon calamity relief from the Govt of Kerala were rejected. Govt of Kerala is taking concerted measures to solve the food crisis. Paddy production could be considerably increased. 2,70,103 tons of paddy could be produced during 2006-07 as against 2,66,634 tons was the production of 2005-06. An increase of around 4000 tons. Paddy production incrased in all the districts. Interest free loans are being extended to paddy farmers. Insurance was introduced for paddy cultivation. It was this Kerala Govt which introduced insurance for paddy cultivation first. Farmers need not pay any amount. Premium is paid by the Govt. Record increase has been achieved in vegetable production. Vegetable production project is being implemented through 2000 Harithasree societies. 322 village markets were started to control the prices. Pension scheme was introduced for farmers. Considerable relief is being extended to the farmers through such creative measures introduced by the LDF. This can be read from the faces of the common people of Wayanad.
As the Nava Kerala March is advancing, those who raise allegations against the movement are strengthening their voice and organising even physical attack against our comrades. These kinds of attack will make the party workers and the common people who love the party more vigilant and attract more people sections of people to the party. This is evident at every centre. The march is being received not mechanically, but affectionately by waves of enthusiastic masses shouting shouting slogans. The successful advancement of this Nava Kerala March proves that the people will come forward to protect the movement with ten times the vigour as the attacks of the opponents become severe.
March entered Wayanad district on thursday afternoon. Adivasis came in very good number in the very first spot, Manantoddy itself. We have covered this very track three years back as part of Kerala march. Those were the days when the crisis in the agrarian sector was at its peak. What we received then in all the three reception spots were hundreds of representations wet with their tears. What we assured the farmers of Wayanad who had no alternative than to commit suicide due to the indifference of the then Govts at the state and the central, then, was that their problem will be the first to be considered if LDF comes to power.
In response to this assurance, LDF candidates were elected by the people of Wayanad in all the three constituencies. Even the areas known as UDF bastions have favoured the left. Now, when we reach here after three years, it can be read from the response being received from the people that the state government could fulfill the expectations of the people who reposed their faith in CPI(M) and LDF, to a great extend. Considerable relief could be extended to the farmers through measures taken by the Government even with all the constraints it faced.
During the UDF rule, 3 districts of Kerala were among the 36 districts where farmers committed suicide. As soon as the LDF Govt came to power it examined the problems of agrarian sector and took immediate measures to address them. Financial assistance of Rs.50,000 was extended to the family of those committed suicide. Their debts were waived. Moratorium was declared for the debts of farmers. Debts below Rs.25,000 was written off in Wayanad district as per the recommendations of Debt Relief Commission. 42113 families benefitted. Rs.51.30 Crores were thus written off in the first phase. Suicide spree in all the other 33 districts are continuing. Kerala districts are not in that list.
The stand taken by the UDF was that farmers didnot commit suicide due to debttrap. Because of this, Kerala lost Crores of central assistance. The stand of the Central Govt is still creating severe problems in agricultural sector. Central Govt and the Planning Commissions are not inclined to implement the much acclaimed Kuttanad package. All the requests for monsoon calamity relief from the Govt of Kerala were rejected. Govt of Kerala is taking concerted measures to solve the food crisis. Paddy production could be considerably increased. 2,70,103 tons of paddy could be produced during 2006-07 as against 2,66,634 tons was the production of 2005-06. An increase of around 4000 tons. Paddy production incrased in all the districts. Interest free loans are being extended to paddy farmers. Insurance was introduced for paddy cultivation. It was this Kerala Govt which introduced insurance for paddy cultivation first. Farmers need not pay any amount. Premium is paid by the Govt. Record increase has been achieved in vegetable production. Vegetable production project is being implemented through 2000 Harithasree societies. 322 village markets were started to control the prices. Pension scheme was introduced for farmers. Considerable relief is being extended to the farmers through such creative measures introduced by the LDF. This can be read from the faces of the common people of Wayanad.
As the Nava Kerala March is advancing, those who raise allegations against the movement are strengthening their voice and organising even physical attack against our comrades. These kinds of attack will make the party workers and the common people who love the party more vigilant and attract more people sections of people to the party. This is evident at every centre. The march is being received not mechanically, but affectionately by waves of enthusiastic masses shouting shouting slogans. The successful advancement of this Nava Kerala March proves that the people will come forward to protect the movement with ten times the vigour as the attacks of the opponents become severe.
MARCH ENTERS KOZHIKODE DISTRICT
Nava Kerala March, raising the slogan "Secure India, Prosperous Kerala" has entered Kozhikode District traversing the the three districts of Kasaragod, Kannur and Wayanad.
Nava Kerala Yatra - , ''A secure India and Prosperous Kerala"
Nava Kerala Yatra is making history...
CPI(M) Kerala unit secretary Pinarayi Vijayan began his state-wide 'Nava Kerala Yatra.' CPI(M) politburo member S Ramachandran Pillai flaged off the yatra at Uppala on 2nd February 2009
In his address, Mr Ramachandran Pillai termed politically motivated the attempt by the CBI to frame Mr Vijayan in the Lavalin case. ''It is not an attack against Mr Vijayan alone, but an attack against the CPI(M). We will strongly fight against the conspiracy,'' he added. Stating that some vested interests were behind the attempt to tarnish the image of the party, Mr Vijayan said the CPI(M) would continue its fight against the communal forces in the country. Mr Vijayan would address party meetings in all 140 Assembly constituencies in the run-up to Lok Sabha elections on the slogan, ''A secure India and Prosperous Kerala.
CPI(M) Kerala unit secretary Pinarayi Vijayan began his state-wide 'Nava Kerala Yatra.' CPI(M) politburo member S Ramachandran Pillai flaged off the yatra at Uppala on 2nd February 2009
In his address, Mr Ramachandran Pillai termed politically motivated the attempt by the CBI to frame Mr Vijayan in the Lavalin case. ''It is not an attack against Mr Vijayan alone, but an attack against the CPI(M). We will strongly fight against the conspiracy,'' he added. Stating that some vested interests were behind the attempt to tarnish the image of the party, Mr Vijayan said the CPI(M) would continue its fight against the communal forces in the country. Mr Vijayan would address party meetings in all 140 Assembly constituencies in the run-up to Lok Sabha elections on the slogan, ''A secure India and Prosperous Kerala.
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