A state-level workshop on the topic of "Gender Responsive Budgeting in Kerala" was held on September 16 at Mascot Hotel in Thiruvananthapuram, organized by the State Planning Board. Officials from various departments participated in the workshop.

The workshop, presided over by State Planning Board member Prof. Mini Sukumar, was inaugurated by the Hon. Vice Chairperson of the State Planning Board, Prof. V.K. Ramachandran. Hon. Member Secretary of the State Planning Board, Dr. Veena N. Madhavan, gave the introductory address. Planning Board members Dr. P.K. Jameela, Prof. Jiju P. Alex, Dr. R. Ravi Raman, and Prof. Varghese George offered felicitation speeches. Dr. Bindu P. Varghese, Chief of the Social Service Division, welcomed the gathering.

In his inaugural address, Prof. V.K. Ramachandran stated that departments should pay special attention to formulating innovative gender-just schemes in sectors like agriculture, industry, animal husbandry, tourism, fisheries, and science and technology, in addition to traditional sectors like education, health, and social justice. He also stressed the need for providing hostels, accommodation, and other support to increase women's representation in higher education, and implementing schemes that include day-care centers, elderly care, housing, and child protection to enhance women's employment.

In her presidential address, Prof. Mini Sukumar emphasized the need to implement schemes that support gender justice in Kerala's planning and development, integrating them with the Sustainable Development Goals. She also highlighted the importance of formulating a development perspective that addresses the specific needs of all sections of women and the transgender community.

As part of the workshop, group discussions and presentations were held on various topics. The panel discussion, moderated by Prof. Mridul Eapen, included Planning Board Division Chiefs Mr. S.S. Nagesh, Mrs. Josephine, Dr. Bindu P. Varghese, Dr. Sunitha A.S., Mr. Arun G. Prathap, and Mr. Sajimon S.

Mr. Sajimon S., Chief of the Plan Coordination Division, delivered the vote of thanks.