The Times Praises Kerala’s Poverty Eradication

Thiruvananthapuram: The Times has reported that Kerala has become the first Indian state to eradicate extreme poverty. Sharing the article on Facebook, M B Rajesh highlighted the state’s achievements and the transformative impact of its poverty eradication programme on lives like 16-year-old Amritha and Sunitha Sumesh.

The Times reports that Kerala, often called 'Red Kerala' for its left-wing governance, has become the first Indian state without extreme poverty. Only 0.55% of its population is classified as poor, far below the national average of 14.96%. Life expectancy in Kerala is nearly 75 years, second only to Delhi, with infant mortality at five per 1,000 live births, comparable to developed countries.

The state’s success is attributed to extensive social investments in healthcare, education, and welfare, along with individually tailored 'micro-plans' for families still at risk. Amritha, an orphan, and her grandmother received a state-provided flat, dramatically changing their lives.

Rajesh emphasised that while the opposition criticised the claim, international observers, including Vinod Thomas, former World Bank vice-president, acknowledged Kerala’s model as exemplary. The Times praised Kerala’s social roots for giving its citizens longer, healthier, and better lives, calling it a blueprint for a developed India.

Rajesh concluded that the global recognition of Kerala’s achievements is a moment of pride, even if some find it hard to accept.