Former Cabinet Secretary K.M. Chandrasekhar has been re-appointed as the Vice-Chairperson of the Kerala State Planning Board, marking his return to this key policy-making role. This move highlights the V.D. Satheesan government’s focus on administrative expertise and financial reforms. Chandrasekhar previously led the Planning Board during the 2011-16 tenure of the Oommen Chandy-led UDF government, where he played a crucial role in shaping the state’s development strategies, including projects like the Kochi Metro and Vizhinjam Port.
Chandrasekhar, a 78-year-old veteran bureaucrat, has a longstanding association with the Congress-led United Democratic Front. Following the assumption of office by the Satheesan administration, he was appointed to head a high-level committee responsible for drafting the White Paper on Kerala’s finances. This document aimed to assess the state’s fiscal status and lay the groundwork for financial reforms.
With a distinguished career in civil service, Chandrasekhar previously served as the Cabinet Secretary during the UPA government led by former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh. In his role as Vice-Chairperson, he will lead the Planning Board in formulating development strategies, assessing projects, and advising the government on policy matters. The government is expected to appoint a group of expert members from various sectors to support Chandrasekhar in his new role. Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan will chair the Planning Board.
