In a historic announcement, Kerala has officially declared itself the first Indian state to be free from extreme poverty, setting a new benchmark for social development and inclusive growth in the country. The announcement came after a comprehensive survey conducted under the State Poverty Alleviation Mission (Kudumbashree) confirmed that not a single family in Kerala now falls under the category of “extreme poverty.”
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed pride in this achievement, saying it reflects Kerala’s model of social justice, welfare, and equality. The government identified and provided support to families living in extreme poverty through targeted welfare schemes, financial assistance, housing initiatives, and employment programs.
According to official data, over 64,006 families were initially listed in the extreme poverty category. Through continuous monitoring and intervention, each family was provided customized support—including children’s education, access to healthcare, housing, and livelihood opportunities—that stabilized their standard of living.
Launched in 1998, the Kudumbashree Mission played a crucial role in empowering women and promoting self-reliance in rural and urban communities. Kerala’s success is now being seen as a model for other Indian states, proving that focused governance and community-driven initiatives can eradicate deep-rooted poverty.
Experts and economists have hailed this move as a transformative step towards achieving India’s broader goal of sustainable and inclusive development. Kerala’s welfare policies in the areas of education, health, and employment have consistently made it one of India’s most progressive states.
As India continues its fight against poverty, Kerala’s achievement is an inspiring example of how vision, policy, and compassion can combine to bring about lasting social change.
