Kochi, July 18
The Kochi-based Center for Public Policy Research (CPPR) began its 20th-anniversary programs on Thursday where events such as the Public Policy Festival, Kochi Dialogue, and Kerala Vision 2040 are being planned.
The program was officially inaugurated by Kochi Corporation Mayor M Anilkumar and took place at the Grand Hotel on MG Road in Ernakulam. Professor of Political Science at Brown University in the United States, Ashutosh Varshni delivered the keynote address on 'India's Democracy: Evolution and Challenges', said an official release.
"I congratulate the Centre for Public Policy Research and I am honoured to inaugurate the 20th year anniversary celebrations. A Centre for Public Policy is important for a city and the Kochi city is honoured to have a Centre and keep it running vibrantly," remarked Adv. M Anil Kumar, Kochi Mayor, during the inaugural address.
Kochi is also the first municipal corporation in Kerala to come up with a street vending by-law and the Corporation appreciates CPPR's efforts for the same, he added.
D Dhanuraj, Chairman, Centre for Public Policy Research added, "The common thread that all of us had was the passion for research. It has been a gratifying and enriching experience to bring changes to society. One of our key projects in 2009, which helped shape the Vytilla Mobility Hub, served as the turning point for the journey of CPPR." He also shared his vision that CPPR becomes the centre of eminence and a go-to Think Tank in the country.
CPPR also honoured their Advisors and Senior Fellows who are an integral part of advocating and contributing towards effective policy making.
As part of its 20th-anniversary celebration, CPPR is organising a year-long program. Programs such as the Public Policy Festival, Kochi Dialogue, and Kerala Vision 2040 are being planned. Kerala Vision 2040 will discuss Kerala's development by 2040, including the economy, investments, transportation, infrastructure, urbanisation, political economics, literature, and so on.
The Kochi Dialogue addresses international topics and discussions. The Public Policy Festival is a national event that addresses a variety of issues. CPPR Chairman D Dhanuraj officially announced the 20th-anniversary programs at the inauguration ceremony.