Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala must move beyond policy announcements and ensure that “ease of doing business” translates into measurable action on the ground, Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar said at the CII Emerging Travancore Summit 2026 held at Lemon Tree Hotel, Thycaud. He stressed that development cannot remain confined to documents and discussions.
“Government and industry must sit together, decide priorities, and act based on facts and ground realities. Otherwise, progress will remain only on paper,” he said.
Emphasising stronger government–industry collaboration, the Governor noted that while governments operate within systemic limitations, private participation is vital to economic transformation. Linking the state’s growth to the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, he said a developed India is possible only through a developed Kerala. “Without Viksit Keralam, we cannot achieve Viksit Bharat,” he remarked. He called for sector-specific institutions aligned with Kerala’s strengths in maritime industries, fisheries, tourism and emerging technologies, advocating a blend of traditional capabilities and modern innovation to drive sustainable growth.
A high-level panel discussion on the growth and future of Thiruvananthapuram featured MP John Brittas, former Union Minister V. Muraleedharan, and former Aruvikkara MLA K.S. Sabarinath, focusing on infrastructure expansion, investment potential and long-term urban planning. Another key session was led by Aravind Krishnan, Managing Director & Head – Southeast Asia Private Equity at Blackstone, who outlined global investment trends and capital flows.
The summit also hosted specially curated B2B and B2G meetings in collaboration with Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM), connecting investors, banks and government departments with startups and MSMEs to facilitate funding, partnerships and job creation.
Pooyam Thirunal Gouri Parvathi Bayi Thamburati of the Travancore Royal Family, V. Jayakrishnan, Head of CII Kerala State Office, VKC Razak, Chairman, CII Kerala, and Nikhil Pradeep, CII Trivandrum Chairman, were among those present. The summit brought together policymakers, global investors, startups and industry leaders to chart a roadmap for inclusive, innovation-driven and sustainable development across South Kerala and the capital region.
