List of Chief Ministers of Kerala
List of Chief Ministers of Kerala A Historical Perspective Kerala, located in the southwestern part of India, has a rich political history that has witnessed the leadership of several influential personalities. Over the years, the state has been governed by Chief Ministers who have played a significant role in shaping its socio-economic and political landscape. In this article, we will delve into the chronology of Chief Ministers in Kerala, highlighting their contributions and accomplishments.
- E. M. S. Namboodiripad (1957-1959, 1967-1969): E. M. S. Namboodiripad, fondly known as EMS, was the first Chief Minister of Kerala after the state’s formation in 1956. He served two non-consecutive terms and was a prominent leader of the Communist Party of India (CPI). EMS implemented significant land reforms and initiated welfare programs aimed at uplifting the marginalized sections of society.
- Pattom A. Thanu Pillai (1960-1962): Pattom A. Thanu Pillai, a leader of the Praja Socialist Party (PSP), assumed office as the second Chief Minister of Kerala. During his tenure, he focused on infrastructure development and introduced measures to enhance educational opportunities.
- R. Sankar (1962-1964): R. Sankar, a member of the Indian National Congress (INC), served as the third Chief Minister of Kerala. His administration concentrated on industrial growth, irrigation projects, and agricultural reforms.
- E. M. S. Namboodiripad (1967-1969): EMS returned to power for a second term, implementing notable reforms and emphasizing land redistribution. His government aimed to address socio-economic inequalities prevalent in Kerala.
- C. Achutha Menon (1969-1970, 1970-1977): C. Achutha Menon, from the CPI, held the office of Chief Minister twice. His tenure witnessed a focus on education and healthcare, along with the establishment of new universities and medical colleges.
- K. Karunakaran (1977-1978, 1981-1982, 1982-1987, 1991-1995): K. Karunakaran, a prominent leader of the INC, served as Chief Minister on four occasions. His tenure saw the implementation of various infrastructure projects, emphasizing roads, bridges, and irrigation systems.
- E. K. Nayanar (1980-1981, 1987-1991, 1996-2001): E. K. Nayanar, a stalwart of the CPI(M), held the position of Chief Minister for three terms. His administration prioritized agricultural development, rural electrification, and the promotion of small-scale industries.
- A. K. Antony (1977-1978, 1995-1996): A. K. Antony, a prominent INC leader, served as Chief Minister for two short terms. His tenure focused on administrative reforms, social justice, and communal harmony.
- Oommen Chandy (2004-2006, 2011-2016): Oommen Chandy, a senior member of the INC, held the position of Chief Minister twice. He introduced numerous social welfare schemes, emphasized infrastructure development, and prioritized the IT sector’s growth.
- Pinarayi Vijayan (2016-present): Pinarayi Vijayan, a prominent leader of the CPI(M), is the current Chief Minister of Kerala. Under his leadership, the state has witnessed significant development in various sectors, including healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
| Sl.No | Chief Minister | From | To | Party Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pinarayi Vijayan | 20 May 2021 | Present | CPM |
| 2 | Pinarayi Vijayan | 25 May 2016 | 19 May 2021 | CPM |
| 3 | Oommen Chandy | 18 May 2011 | 20 May 2016 | INC |
| 4 | V. S. Achuthanandan | 18 May 2006 | 14 May 2011 | CPM |
| 5 | Oommen Chandy | 31 Aug 2004 | 12 May 2006 | INC |
| 6 | A. K. Antony | 17 May 2001 | 29 Aug 2004 | INC |
| 7 | E. K. Nayanar | 20 May 1996 | 13 May 2001 | CPM |
| 8 | A. K. Antony | 22 Mar 1995 | 09 May 1996 | INC |
| 9 | K. Karunakaran | 24 Jun 1991 | 16 Mar 1995 | INC |
| 10 | E. K. Nayanar | 26 Mar 1987 | 17 Jun 1991 | CPM |
| 11 | K. Karunakaran | 24 May 1982 | 25 Mar 1987 | INC |
| 12 | President’s rule | 17 Mar 1982 | 23 May 1982 | N/A |
| 13 | K. Karunakaran | 28 Dec 1981 | 17 Mar 1982 | INC |
| 14 | President’s rule | 21 Oct 1981 | 28 Dec 1981 | N/A |
| 15 | E. K. Nayanar | 25 Jan 1980 | 20 Oct 1981 | CPM |
| 16 | President’s rule | 05 Dec 1979 | 25 Jan 1980 | N/A |
| 17 | C. H. Mohammed Koya | 12 Oct 1979 | 01 Dec 1979 | IUM |
| 18 | P. K. Vasudevan Nair | 29 Oct 1978 | 07 Oct 1979 | CPM |
| 19 | A. K. Antony | 27 Apr 1977 | 27 Oct 1978 | INC |
| 20 | K. Karunakaran | 25 Mar 1977 | 25 Apr 1977 | INC |
| 21 | C. Achutha Menon | 04 Oct 1970 | 25 Mar 1977 | CPM |
| 22 | President’s rule | 04 Aug 1970 | 03 Oct 1970 | N/A |
| 23 | C. Achutha Menon | 01 Nov 1969 | 01 Aug 1970 | CPM |
| 24 | E. M. S. Namboodiripad | 06 Mar 1967 | 01 Nov 1969 | CPM |
| 25 | President’s rule | 25 Mar 1965 | 06 Mar 1967 | N/A |
| 26 | President’s rule | 10 Sep 1964 | 25 Mar 1965 | N/A |
| 27 | R. Sankar | 26 Sep 1962 | 10 Sep 1964 | CPM |
| 28 | Pattom A. Thanu Pillai | 22 Feb 1960 | 26 Sep 1962 | PSP |
| 29 | President’s rule | 31 Jul 1959 | 22 Feb 1960 | N/A |
| 30 | E. M. S. Namboodiripad | 05 Apr 1957 | 31 Jul 1959 | CPM |
| 31 | President’s rule | 01 Nov 1956 | 05 Apr 1957 | N/A |
List of Chief Ministers of Kerala
Conclusion: The Chief Ministers of Kerala have played a crucial role in shaping the state’s growth and development. From implementing progressive policies to addressing social inequalities, each leader has contributed to Kerala’s progress in their unique way. As the state continues to evolve, it is the collective effort of these visionary leaders that has propelled Kerala on its path of growth and prosperity.