Kerala CM Vijayan highlights impact of Wayanad landslides, criticises nation's lack of precise warning systems in I-Day speech

Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) [India], August 15 : Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan acknowledged the impact of the recent landslides that hit Wayanad and criticised the lack of a precise disaster warning system in the country while addressing the state on the occasion of 78th Independence Day celebrations in Thiruvananthapuram.
During his address on Thursday, the Kerala CM also emphasised collective efforts for the overall resilience and recovery of the state. While expressing sorrow, the Chief Minister urged citizens to move beyond their grief and focus on collective resilience and recovery.
"Today, we celebrate India's 78th Independence Day in an atmosphere of profound sorrow due to the Wayanad disaster. This grief is not limited to Kerala alone; the entire nation shares in this pain. However, we cannot afford to be paralyzed by sorrow. We must rise above the adversity and focus on collective efforts for the overall resilience and recovery of our state," he said.
The Chief Minister said that the need for precise predictions has been demonstrated by numerous previous experiences. He also urged the country to take necessary steps to rise to that level of preparedness.
"Even though we boast of achievements in science and technology, it's troubling that, even in the 21st century, our country still struggles to accurately predict natural disasters and establish effective defences to protect lives and property. The need for precise predictions, rather than general warnings, has been demonstrated by numerous experiences worldwide," CM Vijayan said.
CM Vijayan highlighted the state's achievements in health, education, and governance. "Kerala leads in sustainable development goals and is recognized for its effective governance and low corruption rates. The state also boasts impressive indicators in law and order, health care, and education," he said. The CM also reaffirmed Kerala's commitment to evolving into a "Nava Kerala," aligned with modern needs and aspirations.
The Chief Minister also addressed various state-level reforms and projects. He highlighted plans to develop temple eco-tourism, reinstate old educational policies, and enhance the ration distribution system. Vijayan emphasized a commitment to social justice and the use of artificial intelligence for state welfare. He reiterated his administration's focus on eliminating poverty, combating violence, and supporting weaker sections of society.
The Chief Minister paid tribute to the brave hearts of India's freedom struggle. "One of their foremost dreams was to establish a democratic system of governance," Vijayan noted.
He praised India's enduring democracy, highlighting that while many newly independent nations have faced democratic backsliding, India has successfully preserved and strengthened its democratic institutions.
While reflecting on the nation's democratic achievements and challenges, CM Vijayan also addressed India's significant progress over the past 78 years, citing advancements in literacy, education, health, and technology. He noted that India has become a global hub for IT and startups and has achieved remarkable milestones in science and space exploration.
Expressed concern over the revival of superstitions and regressive practices, the Chief Minister said, "At the same time, we cannot ignore the decline in our collective scientific consciousness. It's not just a mere lapse; we're witnessing a revival of superstitions, harmful practices, and regressive rituals."
"Forces are attempting to bring back the darkness we once overcame, using caste and communalism as weapons. This threatens not only our progress but also the very fabric of our secularism," he added.
CM Vijayan outlined several key initiatives, including the initiatives promoting solar energy and green hydrogen of the central government, new industrial clusters, and enhanced infrastructure development. He emphasized the need for precise disaster predictions and effective defenses, a call for improvement that resonates with recent challenges.