Kerala cabinet clears comprehensive urban policy

T'puram: The state cabinet on Friday gave approval for a comprehensive Urban Policy, setting the development direction for the next 25 years as the state undergoes rapid urbanization. The policy comes after nearly two years of continuous deliberations and follows the announcement made in the 2023–24 state budget. According to estimates of Urban Policy Commission that the state constituted earlier, Kerala is projected to become 80% urbanized by 2050. The state is witnessing decentralized urban expansion across densely populated corridors between the high ranges and the coastal belt. In the context of climate change and increasing development pressures, including in environmentally sensitive areas, the Urban Policy is envisaged as a scientific framework to guide sustainable growth.
The policy seeks to leverage urbanization for economic growth while ensuring scientific planning, good governance and climate-smart cities and towns. It aims to build an inclusive model where urban amenities are accessible to all, while reducing social and spatial inequalities and strengthening social support systems. The Urban Policy is structured around key thematic areas, including reforms in laws and institutions, capacity building and strengthening of governance systems, citizen-centric services and schemes, infrastructure development, and spatial and strategic planning. Graphene policy approved The cabinet approved the Kerala Graphene Policy to promote a graphene ecosystem in the state. The policy aims to position Kerala as a global hub for graphene production and research, capitalizing on the material's transformative potential across industries. The policy focuses on promoting research and application of graphene and related materials, supporting industrial development, creating sustainable employment, fostering a favourable startup ecosystem, strengthening research and development, ensuring technological support and global partnerships, and facilitating financial consultancy and marketing support. Amendment to advocates' welfare fund act The cabinet also approved the Kerala Advocates' Welfare Fund (Amendment) Bill, 2026, to amend the 1980 Act. The maximum benefit payable on cessation of practice and on death, currently capped at Rs 10 lakh, will be enhanced to Rs 20 lakh. Financial assistance for major surgeries and cancer treatment will be increased from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 2 lakh. Power purchase agreement extended The cabinet granted permission to KSEB to extend its power purchase agreement with NTPC for a further period of three years. Land transfer to KSPACE Approval was granted to transfer ownership of 4.74 acres of land in the possession of Technopark to KSPACE, subject to conditions. The transfer is in lieu of 3.67 acres that was set apart for the construction of a rainwater harvesting system from the 18.56 acres earlier earmarked for transfer to KSPACE. Extension of service The tenure of Santosh Babu, who serves as MD of Kerala State Information Technology Infrastructure Limited (KSITIL) on contract and also holds additional charge as K-Fon MD and executive director of Information Kerala Mission, was extended for one year with effect from Oct 10, 2025. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Valentine's day wishes, messages and gift idea !