KIIFB: Transforming Kerala's Infrastructure Landscape

Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) has approved 1,190 projects worth Rs 90,562 crore since 2016-17. The state finance minister announced plans to celebrate KIIFB's 25th anniversary and highlighted its role in overcoming infrastructure development challenges. Despite financial controversies, KIIFB maintains a sound repayment plan.

The Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) has approved 1,190 projects worth Rs 90,562 crore since the fiscal year 2016-17, announced State Finance Minister K N Balagopal on Monday. He revealed these figures while discussing the celebrations for KIIFB’s 25th anniversary, scheduled for November 4.

Despite being established in 1999, KIIFB became fully operational post-2016 amendments to boost Kerala's infrastructure through comprehensive initiatives. Balagopal emphasized the completion of projects across varied sectors, noting that Rs 37,388 crore has been utilized, with Rs 21,881 crore-worth of projects completed. Notable initiatives include National Highways and Vizhinjam port.

The minister assured stakeholders of KIIFB's financial stability, countering speculations about its fiscal health. He noted the state’s infrastructural progress has enhanced investor perception, making Kerala an investment-friendly destination, despite receiving only 25% of central funds compared to Bihar's 75%.