God’s Own Country creates history again
In a landmark achievement, Kerala has become India’s first state to eradicate extreme poverty, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced on Saturday. The declaration came on Kerala Piravi, the 69th anniversary of the state’s formation, making the day doubly historic for “God’s Own Country.”
With this, Kerala joins China as one of the only two regions in the world to completely eliminate extreme poverty — a feat Beijing achieved in 2020. Vijayan made the announcement during a special session of the Kerala Legislative Assembly, calling it a “moment of pride and transformation” for the state.
A milestone in Kerala’s development journey
“Today, Kerala Piravi will be remembered forever,” said Vijayan. “We have successfully made Kerala the first Indian state to be free from extreme poverty. This Assembly has witnessed many historic laws and reforms, and today, it marks another milestone in the creation of a New Kerala.”
Vijayan highlighted that one of the first cabinet decisions after his government’s re-election in 2021 was to prioritize the eradication of extreme poverty. He described it as one of the most vital promises made to the people during the election campaign.
Kerala’s success, he said, is built on sustained investments in education, healthcare, housing, and food security, which have collectively transformed the state’s socio-economic landscape.
Behind Kerala’s success story
According to government data, the state implemented a multi-pronged strategy involving over ₹1,000 crore in social welfare initiatives. This included ensuring daily food supply for 20,648 families, hot meals for 2,210 people, medical and pharmaceutical aid for 85,721 individuals, and housing support for thousands of families.
Experts say this achievement is an extension of Kerala’s long-standing commitment to social justice and inclusive growth. The state already holds records as India’s first fully literate, digitally educated, and 100% electrified state. The eradication of extreme poverty adds yet another feather to its progressive cap.
Political reactions and controversy
However, not everyone accepted the announcement without criticism. The opposition United Democratic Front (UDF), led by the Congress, dismissed Vijayan’s claim as “completely false.” Following the declaration, UDF members staged a walkout from the Assembly, accusing the government of “painting a misleading picture” of ground realities.
Despite the political disagreement, social experts and economists across India have praised Kerala’s approach as a model for other states, urging replication of its welfare-driven governance.
Kerala’s social model sets a global example
Kerala’s continuous social advancement has long been admired worldwide. From being India’s most literate state to becoming the first to ensure digital education and full electrification, Kerala’s development has often challenged the traditional growth models of other Indian states.
By officially declaring itself free from extreme poverty, the state reaffirms its position as a global leader in human development, echoing the principles of equity, inclusion, and sustainability.
As Pinarayi Vijayan put it, “This moment is not just about statistics; it’s about restoring dignity, equality, and hope to every citizen of Kerala.”
