Kerala Development and Infrastructure

Kerala’s infrastructure development is anchored by major sectors like transportation, energy, communication, drinking water, housing and rural - urban development, heavily backed by the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB). KIIFB mobilizes off-budget financial resources for large-scale physical and social projects.

■ Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB)

The Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) is a financial institution incorporated to mobilise funds for the major infrastructure projects in the state. KIIFB was established in 1999. It was then revitalised in 2016 to address the funding gaps in large scale infrastructure projects such as roads, hospitals and educational institutions. KIIFB raises funds through innovative financial instruments. It works with State and Central public sector agencies as Special Purpose Vehicles to support infrastructure development.

Pubic Sector Undertakings for Development and Infrastructure

■ Kerala State Industrial Enterprise Ltd (KSIE)

KSIE commenced operations in 1973 with the aim of reviving loss-making units under the Department of Industries. In 1979, KSIE assumed responsibility for the Air Cargo Complex in Thiruvananthapuram. Subsequently, in 1985 and 1995, it took over the supervision of the Air Cargo Complexes in Kochi and Kozhikode, respectively. It managed these operations until the formation of the Cochin International Airport in 1999. Later, KSIE ventured into business trade centers and the e-business sector. It launched a soap manufacturing company named 'Kerala Soaps' in 2010 and established the Cochin International Container Freight Station in 2011.

■ Kerala Small Industries Development Corporation Limited (SIDCO)

SIDCO’s mandate includes supplying raw materials to small-scale industrial units, creating markets for their products, and executing civil works across 17 industrial parks and 36 mini-industrial parks, as well as for government agencies (including the Department of Industries). SIDCO began operations in 1975 with the objective of fostering small-scale industrial units. Currently, eleven production units operate under SIDCO's management. In addition to manufacturing various wood and metal products, bus bodies, and bricks, civil and electrical works are also undertaken here. SIDCO is moving forward with the objective of establishing an industrial park in every constituency to facilitate the direct marketing of products made by small-scale entrepreneurs.

■ Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC)

KSIDC is the nodal agency responsible for attracting domestic and foreign investment into Kerala's industrial sector. Established in 1961, the corporation focuses on formulating business ideas suited to the local context, conducting project feasibility studies, and maintaining continuous engagement with entrepreneurs.

■ Kerala Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (KINFRA)

KINFRA commenced operations in 1993 with the objective of developing industrial infrastructure by establishing industrial parks, townships, and special industrial zones. The primary goal of KINFRA parks is to provide the necessary infrastructure for industrial units. The corporation has established over 25 theme-based industrial parks across sectors such as textiles, infotainment, marine products, rubber exports, electronics, garments, biotechnology, food processing, and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).