62 Villages in Kerala Set for Upgrade to Smart, Accessible Facilities

In a major push towards modernising rural governance, the Kerala government has unveiled an ambitious plan to transform 62 villages across the state into smart facilities. This move is part of a wider effort to bring efficiency, accessibility, and inclusivity to grassroots administration, backed by a substantial financial commitment sanctioned by the Central Government.

Funding and Scope of the Initiative

The project is funded under the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment for the fiscal year 2024-25, which allocates Rs 42.90 crore for various developmental projects. Of this, Rs 27.90 crore is specifically dedicated to the Construction of Smart Villages and Revenue Offices.

Interestingly, the funds are provided as loans under the Capital Expenditure (Capex) scheme with an extended repayment period of 50 years. This generous repayment window allows the state to make long-term investments in rural infrastructure without immediate financial pressure, paving the way for sustainable development.

Distribution Across Districts

The 62 villages selected for the upgrade span multiple districts, reflecting a comprehensive and inclusive approach. The breakdown includes:

• Malappuram: 9 villages
• Palakkad: 7 villages
• Kannur: 6 villages
• Thiruvananthapuram, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Kozhikode: 5 villages each
• Thrissur, Idukki: 4 villages each
• Kollam, Kasaragod: 3 villages each
• Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Wayanad: 2 villages each

This phased rollout marks the beginning of a larger vision aimed at eventually modernising all 1,670 villages in Kerala.

Conclusion

Kerala’s plan to convert 62 villages into smart facilities is a promising step forward in modernising rural governance. By leveraging significant financial support, adopting inclusive design principles, and aiming for long-term infrastructure development, the state is setting an example for efficient, citizen-centric governance.

As this transformation unfolds, Kerala’s villages will not only witness physical infrastructure upgrades but also a profound shift in how government services are delivered, making rural administration more efficient, accessible and truly “smart.”