Kerala keen to find M'periyar dam row solution: Chandy

Thiruvananthapuram: Chief Minister Oommen Chandy on Thursday said Kerala is keen to find a solution to the Mullaperiyar dam row through dialogue with Tamil Nadu.

"We are keen to find a solution to the issue through dialogue with Tamil Nadu," Chandy said while referring to the Mullaperiyar row in his Republic day address after hoisting the national flag at the Central Stadium here.

Stating that Kerala had always been a shining role model for social harmony, Chandy called upon the people to remain vigilant against efforts by certain quarters to vitiate the atmosphere by trying to create communal illwill.

Recalling the services of freedom fighters and the architects of the republic, Chandy said Indian Constitution based on principles of equality and liberty offered a firm foundation for the nation to build itself as a major power in the world.

Chandy said the programmes initiated by the UDF Government based on the slogan "development and care" had created positive results and given confidence to move forward to achieve the targets set by it since it came to power in May last.

He said Kerala was poised to make major strides in infrastructure development without compromising on the welfare of the common people and the goal of inclusive growth.

Earlier, the Chief Minister inspected an impressive Republic Day parade of various contingents of armed forces, police, NCC and Scouts and Guides.