Progressive Professional Forum (PPF) Kuwait conducted their fourth Annual General Meeting at Al-Najath School, Mangaf on 14th February 2020, followed by a talk-show by eminent Economist and Vice-Chairperson of Kerala State Planning Board, Prof. V.K. Ramachandran on the subject, ‘Emigrant’s Resources for Economic Growth.’

Prof. Ramachandran emphasized that every professional should possess at least four prominent virtues such as technical expertise in their respective fields, logical reasoning and rational approach, social consciousness, and commitment to supporting the society including the marginalized sections. He highlighted that the concept of ‘scientific temper is embedded in the Indian Constitution itself

He remarked that in spite of various calamities faced by Kerala since 2016 and constraints due to demonetization and GST, the GDP of Kerala and the per capita income has increased in the past year, mainly due to significant gains from Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME)

 Prof. Ramachandran observed that the highly qualified and experienced emigrants from various technical and professional fields could be utilized not only for obtaining financial support for the development of the state, but also should contribute immensely from their intellect, gained from their varied experience and exposure to modern and advanced technologies. He also encouraged the expatriates to provide their insights towards various developmental aspects to Kerala State Planning Board and other auxiliary state organizations.

 The Professor remarked that the formation of the ‘Kerala Professional Network’ and professional associations in other countries with objectives similar to that of PPF Kuwait.

 He considered PPF Kuwait as a unique collective of professionals from diverse fields such as Advocates, Chartered Accountants, Engineers, Doctors, Scientists, Management Professionals, etc., and wished all the best for their forthcoming endeavors. A memento was presented on behalf of PPF Kuwait to Prof. V.K. Ramachandran.

The function was presided over by the President of PPF Kuwait, Mr. Rajagopalan. E. The General Secretary of PPF, Mr. Sankar Ram offered a welcome address.

 The chief guest, Prof. V.K. Ramachandran was introduced to the audience by outgoing Gen. Secretary, Mr. Anil Kumar P.N, and guest of honor Mr. Suresh C. Pillai was introduced to the audience by the outgoing President, Mr. G. Santhosh Kumar.

 Mr. Ajith Kumar N. (Director, Kerala Pravasi Welfare Board, and Member, Kerala Loka Sabha), Mr. Suresh C. Pillai (Chairman & MD of Mark Group of Companies), Ms. Sherin Shaju (Member, Loka Kerala Sabha, and General Secretary, Vanitha Vedi, Kuwait), Mr. Abdul Sageer Ebrahim (General Convener, Engineers Forum), Mr. Jeothish Cherian (President, KALA Kuwait) offered felicitations.

 The talk show concluded with an active Question and Answer session; the Vice President of PPF Kuwait, Adv. Thomas Stephen extended a vote of thanks. The talk show was well coordinated by the Master of Ceremony, Mr. Shaji Madathil.