The state government’s ‘Commune – Work Near Home (WNH)’ project, aimed at providing world-class workspaces close to the homes of professionals in IT and knowledge-based sectors, is set to commence operations. The first pilot centre in Kerala, established at Kottarakkara, will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on January 19 at 4:00 PM, Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal announced at a press conference held at Mascot Hotel.
The inaugural function will be presided over by Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal, with Ministers J. Chinchurani and K.B. Ganesh Kumar attending as distinguished guests.
The global employment landscape is undergoing a major transformation, with remote and hybrid work models gaining widespread acceptance worldwide. In this changing scenario, Kerala holds significant relevance. Rising living costs and commuting challenges in metropolitan cities are prompting professionals across the globe to rethink their work locations. Against this backdrop, Kerala’s ‘Work Near Home’ centres, which blend rural charm with urban-grade technological infrastructure, are expected to attract global companies to the state, the Minister said.
The project is being implemented with K-DISC functioning as the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), while KIIFB is providing capital through interest-free loans. In the first phase, 10 centres are planned across the state. In addition to Kottarakkara, centres at Kalamassery, Ramanattukara, Taliparamba, Perinthalmanna, and other locations will soon become operational.
The objectives of the project include enhancing local employment opportunities, bringing skilled professionals back to their hometowns, and positioning Kerala as a global skill development hub. The initiative offers effective solutions to challenges such as migration, long-distance commuting, and the lack of safe work environments, the Minister added.
In the long term, the government plans to expand the Work Near Home network to all local self-government institutions across Kerala. This expansion is expected to provide workspaces for 5 lakh people and create 50,000 new jobs. Additionally, the state estimates that nearly ₹5,000 crore worth of economic value, which currently flows outside Kerala, can be retained within the state. The government also aims to extend the project to more locations by offering interest-free KIIFB loans to local bodies and entrepreneurs.
The initiative will help companies significantly reduce office maintenance costs while enabling professionals to work in a peaceful and secure environment, thereby strengthening Kerala’s position in the global job market. It will also help prevent the migration of young talent to metro cities and foreign countries by ensuring promising career opportunities within their own hometowns.
Commune Centre at Kottarakkara Equipped with Modern Facilities
The Work Near Home centre at Kottarakkara, set up in the BSNL Main Building, spans an area of 9,249.97 square feet and offers 141 professional workspaces. Designed on a plug-and-play model, the facility provides a work environment comparable to an IT park, even in smaller towns.
Amenities include high-speed internet, air-conditioned cabins, meeting rooms, a conference hall, and a cafeteria.
The centre is ideal for remote employees, freelancers, startups, and students who wish to work alongside their studies. It will be especially beneficial for women professionals who had to discontinue their careers due to family responsibilities, as it offers a safe and supportive work environment.
The ground floor and first floor of the BSNL building have been fully repurposed for the centre. Renovation works featuring modern interiors and contemporary furniture have been completed to accommodate a large workforce simultaneously. The project has been implemented at a cost of ₹4.87 crore, and the BSNL building has been taken over on a 10-year contractual lease for this purpose.
To mark the inauguration, a Learning Festival will be held from January 18 to 24. The event will feature AR/VR, robotics, and drone experiential zones, along with expert-led hands-on sessions. Participation is open through prior registration.
