Kollam, March 30 -- Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Monday strongly dismissed the narrative that the state is in a "debt trap," asserting that under the LDF-led government, Kerala has achieved unprecedented economic growth over the last decade despite severe financial constraints, natural disasters, and alleged neglect by the Central government.

The Left Democratic Front (LDF) is approaching the upcoming April 9 Assembly election with immense confidence, Vijayan said, adding that the party will seek a mandate for a third consecutive term to ensure that the foundational work they have laid for a 'New Kerala' reaches its completion. "The party has decided that I will contest once again from the Dharmadom constituency," he said. ...