Kozhikode (PTI): The LDF Government in Kerala would set up a welfare fund for people settled here from other states, making it the first state in the country to do so, Home Minister Kodiyeri Balakrishnan said here on Sunday.

"Those who have come and settled here from other states have immensely contributed to the development of the state and certainly deserve welfare measures", he said, participating in the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the Tamil Sangham's Kozhikode unit here.

Noting that Kerala is a consumer state and heavily dependent on Tamil Nadu and Karnataka for essential commodities like vegetables, milk and egg, he said "Tamil Nadu has been our mainstay of supply for many years".

"Kerala and Tamil Nadu are twin brothers who share so much in common," he said, adding that Tamils living across the state always felt at home in the state.

Similarly, people of different faiths also lived in amity and minority communities were also given their due share in the state.

If non-Keralites had complaints,they could approach the Government and their grievances would be redressed, he said.

Hailing Tamil as one of the most popular languages in the world, he said Tamil always had a special status in Kerala and Tamil films were also received with great enthusiasm.

Noted Tamil comedian Vivek was the Guest of Honour at the function.