Kerala loves entrepreneurs
Contrary to the image businesses are thriving in Kerala
Contrary to the image businesses are thriving in Kerala
It is a myth that Kerala is not good for business and industry. Trade unions, hartals, bandhs and exodus to Gulf countries are the proofs. There are about 2200 startupsin Kerala.
25 years ago Balagopal Chandrasekhar resigned as an Indian Administrative Officer (IAS) to start his business. He busted the myth by listing down the names of successful startups and MSMEs in the state. Kochi is the hub for medical equipment businesses. Trivandrum is the hub for technology startups. Share of manufacturing has risen to 13%. Kerala also boasts of the country’s highest per capita gross domestic product (GDP). Kerala’s tourism sector is about INR 36000 crore strong.
Mr. Balagopal writes, “So, the old narrative of a State that was not friendly to industry, and that had missed the industrialisation bus, is not correct. The facts indicate that, Kerala, on the contrary, seems to be now reaping the benefits of investing in human capital formation and social welfare including public health.”
Kerala Government launched a campaign to attract talent and new businesses. It provides facilities, mentorship, access to government contracts and highly skilled workers. Some of the interesting startups are Spenwise, Sylo, Techmago and Recipebook.