Betting big on technology, Kerala is revving up its journey into industrialisation 4.0
By Sunitha Srinivasan
Ende Keralam…. Ethra Sundaram…..……go the lyrics of a popular Malayalam song. The words loosely translate to – my Kerala—how beautiful (it is)…The scenic beauty of the state is indisputable. With its beautiful green palm trees framing azure oceans on the coast and lush paddy fields and plantations on the hinterland, there is absolutely no doubt that this is indeed God’s own land.
Kerala’s breathtaking natural beauty has long made it a prime destination for tourism. Since the mid-20th century, when Col. Raja began developing Kovalam as a tourist hotspot, the state has witnessed a remarkable surge in visitors. In 2003 alone, Kerala welcomed 21.8 million domestic tourists and 640,000 international travelers. Tourism is undeniably a major economic driver, contributing 10% to the state’s GDP. However, Kerala’s relatively small landmass-less than 40,000 square kilometers, poses challenges in accommodating this influx.
The recent tourism boom has also had unintended consequences on Kerala’s fragile ecosystem. Natural disasters, like the Wayanad landslides, have been partly attributed to over-tourism. Environmentalists have long warned of its negative impact, alongside concerns over the shrinking of the Vembanad Lake, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable tourism practices to protect Kerala’s delicate natural environment.
Fortunately for Kerala, it has a lot going for it in other sectors and does not have to rely on tourism alone for its economic sustenance. Given its highly literate, creative population, Kerala is an ideal destination for high-end manufacturing and skilled services. The first Technopark in India was started in Trivandrum in Kerala, in 1990. Today, this park, extending over 700 acres, is one of the largest and greenest in Asia. It hosts over 500 global giants on its premises and works actively towards partnering with new companies and countries.The entire state is actively pursuing tie-ups with global companies. The industries minister of Kerala, Mr P Rajeev, is going all out to establish Kerala as a “global hub of cutting-edge manufacturing industries.” He led a delegation to Davos earlier this year as a part of the’ Invest in Kerala’ initiative and is leaving no stone unturned to invite foreign missions to visit the state and experience its potential first-hand.
In March 2025, a group of delegates from the German Business Group in Bangalore were invited to visit Trivandrum to see the available infrastructure and explore expansion possibilities for their respective companies in the state. Mr P Rajeev awarded them a warm welcome. To quote him,” As Kerala strengthens its position as a prime hub for Industrial Revolution 4.0 industries, we are focused on bringing more advanced sectors into the state. The delegation engaged in preliminary discussions on potential collaborations, particularly in the MSME sector. These discussions concluded on a promising note, and the government anticipates further engagements and investments as an outcome. “
Kerala holds a significant advantage when it comes to engaging with foreign companies. Its strategic location at the southern tip of India, combined with its fertile soil that supports the cultivation of valuable spices, has made it a hub for international trade for centuries. Ever since Vasco da Gama arrived in Kerala in 1498, the region has maintained strong trade connections with the West. This long history of global interaction has shaped the Malayalee people into a culturally open and adaptable community. Known for their progressive outlook and ambition, they have a strong tradition of seeking opportunities beyond their homeland, often venturing to distant corners of the world. This global exposure has made them naturally adept at interacting with people from diverse cultures, embracing new technologies, and integrating innovative ideas into their way of life.
Several organisations are actively contributing to Kerala’s industrial progress by equipping its workforce with the necessary skills for global employment. One such institution is the Kerala Academy for Skills Excellence (KASE), based in Thiruvananthapuram. As a non-profit company, KASE plays a pivotal role in coordinating and facilitating various skill development initiatives across the state. Its primary focus is upskilling Kerala’s youth and enhancing their competencies to meet international standards. Mr Vinod Velayudhan, the Chief Operating Officer of KASE, consistently underscores the importance of aligning skill enhancement programs with evolving industry demands to build a future-ready workforce.Another key player in Kerala’s skill development landscape is the Goethe-Zentrum, which has been instrumental in enhancing language proficiency among young professionals. With a growing global demand for medical personnel from Kerala, proficiency in foreign languages has become crucial for those seeking careers abroad. Recognizing this need, the Goethe-Zentrum, established in 2008, offers specialised German language courses. Today, it certifies over 50,000 students annually, enabling them to secure opportunities in German-speaking countries.
These organizations are not only shaping Kerala’s workforce but also reinforcing the state’s position as a hub for skilled professionals ready to excel both in their home state and on the global stage.
Kerala has been steadily expanding its industrial base across a diverse range of sectors, reinforcing its reputation as a dynamic hub for both manufacturing and services. The INS Vikrant, constructed by Cochin Shipyard, was India’s first indigenously built aircraft carrier. It stands as a testament to the state’s shipbuilding expertise. In the medical technology sector, Terumo Penpol has established itself as a global leader in blood management solutions. The newly constructed Vizhinjam Port is another major milestone in Kerala’s industrial landscape, strengthening its position as a key player in international trade and logistics. Kerala’s rich agricultural heritage also continues to thrive, with its world-renowned plantation crops—tea, spices and rubber, contributing significantly to the economy. Beyond raw produce, the state boasts a thriving rubber-based manufacturing industry, home to major players like Glenrock Rubber Products, owned by the Kalivayillil family, pioneers in the sector, and Top Floor Mats, operated by the Narendran Group. Both these organisations are manufacturing highly innovative products, like -non-fatigue mats for people who spend long hours on their feet in a stationary position and mats for livestock pens. This is a prime example of a traditional industry innovatively re-inventing itself. The Coir industry has been thriving for over a century since stalwarts like Aspinwall and Darragh Smail began their operations.
The industrial diversity doesn’t stop there. Kerala is making strides in Oleoresins, 3D printing, software development, garments, and rain protection products, among others. The state’s combination of a highly skilled, literate, and creative workforce makes it an attractive destination for investment and innovation. As Hubert Reilard, head of the German Business Group, aptly puts it: “Kerala, with its highly skilled, literate, and creative talent pool, is a great place for both the manufacturing and services sector. It offers the dual advantages of enhanced productivity and a shorter learning curve.”
Kerala’s robust industrial ecosystem is propelling it towards becoming a global powerhouse across multiple sectors. The state has far more to offer than just its breathtaking natural beauty—it boasts of a dynamic economy driven by innovation, resilience, and a highly skilled workforce. When one takes a moment to reflect on Kerala’s growth trajectory, it becomes clear that the true essence of Sundaram in Ende Keralam lies in its people—strong, intelligent, and unwavering in their pursuit of progress. Nothing stands in their way as they shape a future of excellence.
Sunitha Srinivasan
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