Kottayam declared India’s first district free of extreme poverty

Kottayam: Kottayam has become the first district in India to be declared free of extreme poverty, announced Local Self- Government Minister M B Rajesh. The project to eradicate extreme poverty was a key decision taken in the first cabinet meeting of the second Pinarayi Vijayan government, with a five -year target to completely eliminate extreme poverty from the state.

The data collection process to identify individuals living in extreme poverty in Kottayam began in October 2021. The survey was conducted in a participatory manner. A total of 1,344 enumeration teams comprising 2,688 enumerators took part in the process. Focus group discussions and gram sabha meetings were also conducted. The criteria used to define extreme poverty included access to food, healthcare, income, and housing (including those who were homeless or lacked both land and shelter).

On January 10, 2022, Kottayam became the first district in Kerala to complete the identification process. The survey initially identified 1,071 individuals. Through a super check process, people who had passed away or migrated to other districts, states were excluded. The final list recognised 903 people as living in extreme poverty. In August 2022, 978 micro-plans were prepared for the rehabilitation and livelihood of these individuals, a first- of -its- kind initiative in the state, also led by Kottayam.

Implementation began in October 2022, again first in Kottayam. The micro-plans were executed through local self -government institutions. These plans ensured access to food, medicines, palliative care, and medical support devices for all identified families. Food kits were distributed to those struggling to meet their nutritional needs, while ready -to -eat meals were provided to families unable to cook. These services continue to be provided to 605 families.

Medicines were supplied to 693 families, palliative care services to 206 families, and health support equipment to 6 families. Sustainable income sources were arranged for 155 families: 140 through the Kudumbashree -Ujjivanam scheme, 6 through local bodies, 5 via other government departments, and 5 with the help of private entities.

All individuals who were homeless or landless and homeless were provided with secure housing. Housing was provided to 67 families who lacked only a house, while both land and housing were secured for 50 families. Additionally, 22 families were relocated to rental homes. These housing solutions were made possible through the LIFE Mission, PMAY, sponsorships, and assistance from voluntary organisations.

Identity and entitlement documents such as Aadhaar, ration cards, bank accounts, and other official IDs were arranged for 490 beneficiaries. Free bus passes were given to 55 students, along with learning materials and academic guidance sessions. Measures were also taken to rehabilitate and provide care for wandering individuals and those facing mental health challenges.