Formerly known as Cochin, this is one of the major port cities located on the West Indian coastal areas. This city of the Ernakulam district of the state of Kerala is situated by the side of the Arabian Sea. This 2nd biggest city of Kerala is considered to be the first ranked city in the state for attracting national as well as international tourists. This vibrant city is known for providing breathtakingly scenic view of the Kerala state. Apart from that, this city is the industrial and commercial capital of this state of south India.
The huge industrial sector is the biggest resource of economy in this south Indian city. The manufacturing industry has got around 37 % of contribution in the city's economy whereas, the sectors like hospitality, tourism and trade together account for another 20 %. Some of the other major contributors to the economy of this city are banking, chemical industries, construction, electronics, export of fish, spices and seafood, hardware, import and export of container cargo, I.T. (Information Technology) shipbuilding and shipping or transportation. Remittances from the N. R. I population (Non-Resident Indian's) are another main source of income.
Kerala is the most educated state in India. The literacy rate of Kerala is about 94.3%. Kochi, one of the most important city of Kerala, excels in literacy rate of the whole state. As far as preliminary education in Kochi is concerned, the schools here are affiliated to either Kerala State Education Board, Indian Certificate of Secondary Education or Central Board of Secondary Education.
Connectivity
By Air: The Cochin International Airport is situated in Nedumbassery towards the northern side of the city, is around 25 km from the city centre. This airport serves both national as well as international travelers.
By Rail: Ernakulam Town Railway Station (North Railway Station) and Ernakulam Junction (South Railway Station) are the two important railway stations in the city.
By Water: Ranked among the major seaports of the country, Kochi harbor is one of the safe harbors on the Indian Ocean. Administered by the Cochin Port Trust, which is an autonomous body, this port provides facilities for passenger ships to Lakshadweep and Colombo.
By Road: Several highways passing within the proximity of the city connect the place to its neighboring cities as well as the other parts of Kerala.