What is "Kerala Model"?

Question

Economics

Answer 1

The Kerala model refers to a set of economic practices developed in India's state of Kerala. These practices have resulted in the state attaining a high level of standards in human development, while compromising on its industrial development. This anomaly of high social development despite economic backwardness, is variously known as the Kerala model, or the Kerala phenomenon. The unique demographic profile of the state as well as historical factors associated with the state's intervention have been considered to be responsible for this phenomenon.

Kerala is the first state in India having near 100% literacy. Kerala was exposed to peaceful trade with the outside world long before the British arrived. Of all the subtle corrosives that broke down the old order and gave rise to the new Kerala, to an extent unprecedented and as yet unmatched in the Third World. The Aryan law of the land prohibited backward class from education. The Pallikkoodams started by Christian Missionaries pave way for an educational revolution in Kerala by making education accessible to all students irrespective of cast or religion. Christian Missionaries introduced English education to empower common man to throw away the yoke of bondage afflicted by upper class. Communities such as Ezhavas, Nairs and Harijans were guided by great visionaris and monastic orders(Ashrams) - Sree Narayana Guru, Sree Chattambi Swamigal & Shree Ayyankali - who exhorted them to educate themselves by starting their own schools. This resulted in numerous Sree Narayana schools and Nair Service society schools. The teachings of these saints have also empowered the poor and backward classes to organize themselves and bargain for their rights.

Despite its achievements, the model is heavily criticised for the low industrial development in the state and high levels of unemployment. The educational reforms failed to make a direct mark on the state, as people were left with no option but to go abroad for work options. Today, with over a third of the population of the state living abroad, the policy in effect, created a brain drain scenario.

Answer 2

Harthal