M.T. Thomas of Congress was on Monday elected as the 14th president of Idukki district panchayat. His selection was as per an agreement between the Kerala Congress (M) and the Congress on a seat-sharing formula.
In the last election, all the divisions of the district panchayat were won by the United Democratic Front and Alez Kozhimala of Kerala Congress (M) resigned last month and vice president Indu Sudakar was given the charge till Mr Thomas was elected.
Mr Thomas represents Wagamon division and was a former member of District Congress Committee.
On being selected as the new president, Mr Thomas said that his prime focus is to utilise the maximum fund for development giving importance to rural segment. All the projects, which are to be completed will be done in a time frame, he said adding that as he represents one of the poorest areas in the district, he was aware of the problems being faced by the rural areas.
The project implementation will be in consideration of the over-all development of the district and as a representative, he will be always available to the people. He said that there will not be any political consideration when development projects are being taken up and appealed to all for extending co-operation in his endeavour to make the district a fast growing one in terms of infrastructure and other facilities.
While implementing projects, it will be considered that they will not affect the special environmental features of the district. Projects for the benefit of the poor will be his consideration and avenues to develop the tourism potential without harming the nature will be sought, he said.
