Kerala To Be Declared India's First State Free From Extreme Poverty On November 1 | TimelineDaily

On November 1, Kerala will declare itself as India’s first state to eradicate extreme poverty. This announcement marks the success of the Extreme Poverty Eradication Programme (EPEP) — a four-year mission launched by the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government in 2021. The programme was implemented through local self-governing bodies, focusing on targeted welfare interventions to uplift the poorest families.

Identifying the Poorest Families

In 2021, Kerala conducted a statewide survey to identify households facing extreme deprivation. Out of 1.18 lakh families initially shortlisted, 59,000 families were confirmed as “extremely poor” after multi-level verification. Each of these families received a customised micro-plan, prepared with local participation, to address needs related to housing, food, health, and livelihood.

Real-Life Impact Stories

The programme has directly transformed lives at the grassroots.
For instance, Sathyavathi, a 67-year-old heart patient from Kannur, now receives free medicines worth ₹1,600 every month. Similarly, K.K. Hamza, paralyzed after an accident, was supported to start a shop and receives palliative care through the local panchayat. These stories reflect how personalized welfare planning ensures dignity and independence for vulnerable citizens.

Role of Local Governance

The EPEP demonstrates the power of decentralised governance in poverty eradication. Panchayats were central to identifying beneficiaries, coordinating welfare schemes, and ensuring delivery. In February 2024, the Kuttiattoor panchayat became the first local body in Kerala to be declared free of extreme poverty, symbolising the success of local empowerment and participatory planning.

Independent Approach to Measuring Poverty

Unlike the World Bank’s $3-a-day line or NITI Aayog’s Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI), Kerala designed its own poverty identification model. Nearly 4 lakh officials, volunteers, and elected representatives were trained to conduct door-to-door surveys and focus group discussions. This people-driven survey method ensured that hidden and neglected sections — such as the bedridden or single women caregivers — were not left out.

Multi-Sectoral Support for the Poor

The programme adopted a multi-dimensional approach to eliminate deprivation:

  • Housing: 4,005 of the 4,677 homeless families received homes under Life Mission.
  • Food Security: 20,648 families without regular food supply were given meals and food kits.
  • Civic Access: Through the Avakasam Athivegam (Rights Fast) campaign, beneficiaries were provided essential documents like Aadhaar, voter ID, MGNREGA cards, and pensions, ensuring complete inclusion in welfare networks.

Lessons and Significance for India

Kerala’s initiative stands out as a model of inclusive governance and data-driven welfare planning. It proves that poverty eradication is possible through decentralised planning, micro-level interventions, and local accountability. By addressing the causes of poverty rather than symptoms, Kerala sets a replicable model for other Indian states to achieve inclusive growth and social justice.

UPSC Relevance

  • GS Paper 2: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections, role of local governance.
  • GS Paper 3: Inclusive growth and poverty alleviation strategies.
  • GS Paper 4: Ethical governance and empathy-driven policymaking.