Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 26 (IANS): On the occasion of the 68th Republic Day celebrations on Thursday here, Kerala Governor P. Sathasivam called the state the "thought leader" for the rest of India.

"Although our state is small, accounting for hardly three per cent of India's population, yet Kerala has always been a 'thought leader' for the rest of India with its high literacy, progressive ideas and globally acclaimed movements," said Governor Sathasivam in his Republic Day address here at the Central stadium, after taking the salute at an impressive parade.

He said Kerala is now on the path of rebuilding itself as one of the most advanced societies in the world, with a mission called "Nava-keralam", which focuses on four key areas, namely, education, agriculture and environment, housing and health.

" I must appreciate the efforts of the state government, led by Pinarayi Vijayan, in focusing on these key areas with a broad vision that aims at an all-round development of the state, in tune with the national goals," said Sathasivam, former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.

"This rejuvenation package for agriculture is very significant, especially in the context of all districts in Kerala being drought affected," he said.

"On this Republic Day, each one of us should pledge to grow at least two varieties of vegetables in our homes, and to preserve water, considering the drought situation," the Governor added.

Chief Minister Vijayan and senior government officials watched the parade from the gallery of the stadium.

Similar parades were held in all the other 13 district headquarters where state cabinet ministers took the salute.

For the first time, the CPI also got into the act and hoisted the Tricolour at their party offices. Congress state unit president V.M. Sudheeran hoisted the flag at the state party headquarters here.