Scheme to help Keralites in Tamil Nadu learn Malayalam

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The state government would introduce a scheme to help Keralite students in Tamil Nadu learn Malayalam, Chief Minister V S Achuthanandan said today.

Participating in the 'ground breaking' ceremony for the Kerala House building here, Achuthanandan said the scheme would be implemented this year by state's official language department in co-ordination with the Malayali associations in various parts of Tamil Nadu.

The examinations would be held by the Kerala government and certificates would be given.

The state government would take into account all the criticisms and grievances against the Kerala House project, he said, adding all should unite for the welfare of lakhs of Keralites living in Tamil Nadu.

The House would provide accommodation to visiting Keralites. It will have a cultural and an information centre, he said, adding it would be a 'symbol' of the ties between the two states.

Kerala was part of Tamil Nadu in ancient times and the two states always had good ties, he said and appealed to Malayali associations here to work without 'selfish motives' to avoid any unhealthy competition between them and also among the people of the two states.

Tourism Minister Kodiyeri Balakrishnan said the Kerala House was being built in the land belonging to the state government. It would be constructed at a cost of Rs 20 crore within two years.

Ten out of the 91 rooms to be built in the premises would be reserved for Kerala ministers and officials visiting Tamil Nadu, he added.