Kerala to Frame Country’s First Comprehensive Urban Policy

Kochi: Kerala is set to become the first state in India to formulate a comprehensive urban policy, a move aimed at sustainable, inclusive, and citizen- centric city development, Minister for Local Self-Government MB Rajesh said on Monday. The policy will be discussed at the Kerala Urban Conclave on September 12 and 13 in Kochi.

The Urban Policy Commission has submitted its report identifying 10 key themes to guide scientific and forward- looking urban planning. The conclave will deliberate on these themes, focusing not only on physical city development but also on enhancing quality of life, ensuring social justice, promoting environmental sustainability, and preserving cultural diversity. Key issues such as climate resilience, demographic pressures, and challenges in employment and education will also be addressed.

The international conclave, themed “Aspiring Cities, Thriving Communities,” will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on September 12. Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar will be the chief guest. Other dignitaries at the inaugural session include Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs George Kurian, Sri Lankan Minister for Urban Development Anura Karunathilaka, South Africa’s Executive Council Member for Infrastructure Martin Meyer, Leader of Opposition VD Satheesan, Union Urban Affairs Secretary K Srinivas, and Kerala Ministers KN Balagopal, K Rajan, AK Saseendran, and P Rajeev.

Representatives from three foreign countries, two union ministers, and ministers from five other Indian states will participate, alongside seven international mayors and 15 mayors from across India, sharing global perspectives on urban governance.

The conclave will feature 10 policy formulation sessions, five plenary sessions, two focus sessions, and 11 round table discussions. The valedictory session will be held on September 13 at 4 pm, with UN India Resident Coordinator Shombi Sharp as the chief guest.

In conjunction with the conclave, a large-scale public exhibition will be held at Kochi Marine Drive from September 11 to 15. The exhibition will highlight Kerala’s urban development journey, innovative ideas, emerging technologies, sustainable models, and progress in urban amenities.

Over a thousand delegates, including international representatives, national policymakers, academics, industry leaders, and NGOs, are expected to participate, reflecting Kerala’s model approach to inclusive, sustainable, and forward-looking urban governance.