Shashi Tharoor calls for more MSMEs in Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has expressed disappointment over Kerala’s start-up ecosystem, stating that the reality does not match the reported success. He emphasized the urgent need for more Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to drive economic growth.

Tharoor shared a report highlighting the closure of several MSMEs over the past nine years and stressed that Kerala needs real start-up development, not just impressive figures on paper. "Dismayed to see that the Kerala start-up entrepreneurship story is not what's been reported. The only silver lining is that at least the government's claims show the right intentions. We need more MSME start-ups—and not just on paper," he wrote on X.

His remarks follow his earlier praise of the LDF government’s industrial policies, which had drawn criticism from fellow Congress leaders. Tharoor clarified that his comments were focused solely on the start-up ecosystem and not the entire economy of Kerala, which he said remains in a difficult state.

He further credited former Congress Chief Minister Oommen Chandy for initiating Kerala’s start-up movement by establishing the Start-Up Village and the State's Start-Up Mission. "As a Congressman, I am proud that this builds on an initiative undertaken by former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy," he said.

Tharoor's recent statements have fueled speculation about his stance within the Congress party. However, he maintains that his focus is on ensuring Kerala moves in the right direction by fostering a stronger start-up culture and supporting MSMEs.