Thiruvanathapuram: Emphasizing that media should act as a bridge for national integration and informed governance, the Governor of Kerala, Shri Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, shared his vision for constructive journalism during an interaction with a visiting media delegation from Odisha.
Welcoming the journalists on their Press Information Bureau (PIB) tour, the Governor noted that the exchange of ideas between states is vital for the health of cooperative federalism.
During the discussion at Lok Bhavan, the Governor highlighted Kerala’s sustained excellence in the social sector, particularly in health and education. He pointed out that the state has consistently led on key human development indicators, attributing this success to a robust health infrastructure and the achievement of 100 per cent literacy. According to Shri Arlekar, education remains the cornerstone of inclusive and sustainable development in the state.
Beyond policy and governance, the Governor spoke warmly of Kerala’s identity, citing its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and high standards of cleanliness as defining characteristics. He also shared personal reflections on his association with Odisha, recalling his past visits to the state and extending his greetings to the visiting press corps.
The meeting served as a forum for exchanging views on democratic governance and the evolving role of constitutional institutions. The Odisha team briefed the Governor on their various field visits, including their recent tour of the Vizhinjam International Seaport. At the seaport, the delegation observed the facility’s advanced deep-water infrastructure and its strategic position as a transshipment hub capable of handling Ultra Large Container Vessels.
In addition to the interaction at Lok Bhavan, the delegation met with the Additional Director General of PIB Thiruvananthapuram, Shri V. Palanichamy, to discuss the importance of field-based journalism. Dr. Athira Thampi, Deputy Director, Press Information Bureau Thiruvananthapuram was present during the meeting.
The team was accompanied by Shri Manoj Kumar Jali, Deputy Director, and Shri Swadhin Shakti Prasad, Media & Communication Officer from PIB Bhubaneswar.