Kerala to Celebrate ‘New Kerala Day’ on November 1st, Commemorates Milestone in Eradicating Extreme Poverty

Thiruvananthapuram: The Communist Party of India Marxist (CPI(M)) State Secretary M.V. Govindan in press conference said that Kerala will observe November 1st as ‘Birthday of a New Kerala’ that is free from extreme poverty. The occasion will be celebrated with large-scale public events, including a grand rally in the state capital and local festivities across all wards in Kerala.

The announcement will be made by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan during a special session of the Kerala Legislative Assembly. The main event, expected to draw thousands, will be held in Thiruvananthapuram. At the same time, celebrations at the grassroots level will also have processions, public meetings, and the distribution of payasam (a traditional sweet dish). The central event in Thiruvananthapuram district is scheduled for October 31st.

Govindan emphasised that the achievement was the result of a coordinated effort by the state government and various agencies to identify and support the state’s extremely-poor population. This initiative was first discussed in the inaugural Cabinet meeting of the second Left Democratic Front (LDF) government. At the time, Niti Aayog’s data indicated that only 0.7% of Kerala’s population lived in extreme poverty. Surveys conducted by the Department of Local Self-Government and Kudumbashree identified 64,006 families in need. Subsequently, a collective approach by various government departments ensured that these families received the necessary assistance.

Reflecting on the broader significance of this achievement, Govindan credited the Communist Party’s commitment to progressive policies that have transformed Kerala over the decades. He recalled the abolition of the hereditary tenancy system and land distribution under the leadership of EMS Namboodiripad in 1957, and the subsequent introduction of free education, healthcare, and welfare programs. These initiatives, he noted, have played a crucial role in shaping Kerala into a model of social justice.

The state’s success in achieving near-total literacy, 100% electrification, and universal healthcare has now led Kerala to become the first state in India to eliminate extreme poverty. Govindan pointed out that this achievement has caught the attention of global leaders, with socialist nations expressing admiration for Kerala’s progress.

During a recent visit to the AKG Centre, Chinese delegates were reportedly curious about how Kerala had managed such success. They acknowledged the state’s model as one from which many nations could learn. Notably, Karnataka Congress Minister and national leader Rahul Gandhi has also praised Kerala’s development model, calling it a benchmark for the rest of India.