K.M. Chandrasekhar Reappointed as Vice-Chairperson of Kerala State Planning Board
K.M. Chandrasekhar's Reappointment
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Thiruvananthapuram, July 21: K.M. Chandrasekhar has been reappointed as the Vice-Chairperson of the Kerala State Planning Board, marking his return to this influential policy-making role. This decision reflects the V.D. Satheesan government's focus on leveraging administrative expertise and implementing fiscal reforms.
The 78-year-old bureaucrat previously led the Planning Board during the tenure of the Oommen Chandy-led UDF government from 2011 to 2016, where he was instrumental in major projects like the Kochi Metro and Vizhinjam Port.
Chandrasekhar has a longstanding association with the Congress-led United Democratic Front and rejoined the government's policy framework shortly after the Satheesan administration took office.
He was tasked with leading a high-level committee that produced a White Paper on Kerala's finances, which aimed to evaluate the state's fiscal health and laid the groundwork for the government's financial reform initiatives.
Recognized as one of India's eminent civil servants, Chandrasekhar served as Cabinet Secretary during the second United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government under former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, concluding a distinguished career with numerous significant roles at both the central and state levels.
In his role as Vice-Chairperson, he will guide the Planning Board in formulating development strategies, assessing projects, and advising the government on policy matters.
He is anticipated to be supported soon by a panel of experts from various sectors, who will be appointed by the government in the near future. Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan will act as the Chairperson of the newly formed Planning Board.
Cabinet members P.K. Kunjalikutty, Sunny Joseph, Mons Joseph, Shibhu Baby John, and C.P. John will also serve as members.
This appointment is seen as a continuation of the government's strategy to merge political leadership with seasoned technocrats to shape Kerala's development agenda.
Chandrasekhar's deep understanding of the state's administrative framework, along with his experience at the highest levels of the Union government, is expected to provide continuity and credibility to the Planning Board as it devises long-term development strategies while addressing the state's fiscal challenges.