Profit-making PSUs in state up; KMML, Keltron top performers

T'puram: The number of profit-making public sector undertakings (PSUs) under the state industries department rose to 27, according to a half-yearly performance review report presented in the presence of industries minister P Rajeeve. The report shows that as of Oct this year, 27 PSUs were in profit, compared to 25 units in the April–Sept period. Fourteen PSUs turned profitable during the period, while seven others increased their profit margins. Sales revenue grew by 9.07%, with 32 PSUs reporting higher turnover. Operating profit increased by Rs 72.51 lakh. Overall sales from the 48 PSUs under the industries department reached Rs 24.4 crore, compared to Rs 22.99 crore in the same period last year. The number of PSUs earning net income rose to 17 from nine last year. Kerala Minerals and Metals Ltd (KMML) topped the list with the highest operational profit of Rs 45.49 crore. In Oct alone, its operational profit stood at Rs 14.61 crore. Keltron reported an operational profit of Rs 12.68 crore, reversing the losses it recorded last year. Keltron Electro Ceramics Ltd (ECL) followed with Rs 11.85 crore in operational profit. Other PSUs currently operating in profit include Keltron Components, Travancore Cochin Chemicals (TCC), Kerala Electrical and Allied Engineering Company, Coir Corporation, Kerala State Industrial Enterprises (KSIE), TELK, Steel and Industrial Forgings Ltd (SIFL), Kerala Mineral Development Corporation, Kerala Clays and Ceramic Products Ltd (KCCPL), Coirfed, Silk, Artisans Development Corporation, FIT, Malappuram Cooperative Spinning Mill, K Karunakaran Memorial Cooperative Spinning Mill, Foam Mattings, Alappuzha Cooperative Spinning Mill, Small Industries Development Corporation (SIDCO), Priyadarsini Cooperative Spinning Mill, Trivandrum Spinning Mill and Coir Machinery Manufacturing Company. The report also pointed out that the PSUs collectively showed notable operational efficiency compared to last year. The sector achieved a cumulative operational profit of Rs 27.30 lakh, a significant improvement over the previous period. Among specific units, Keltron was highlighted for its expanding role in the defence, aerospace, electronics and AI-driven technology sectors. It played a key part in the development of INS Tamal, a naval warship project, and crossed Rs 1,000 crore in turnover this year. Kerala Automobiles Ltd entered the electric scooter market through a joint venture, while Kerala State Drugs and Pharmaceuticals (KSDP) opened a dedicated sales centre to ensure access to quality medicines. Kerala Electrical and Allied Engineering Ltd (KEL) secured new orders, including from the Karnataka govt, helping expand its business base. Kerala Clays and Ceramic Products Ltd diversified its product line. Coir Corporation improved its revenue through new sales outlets opened in premium locations, including Lulu Mall, achieving Rs 60 lakh in sales. To help PSUs settle statutory employee dues, Rs 42.50 crore was allocated in the last state budget. The review also noted that 32 PSUs have implemented safety audits.