The Eradication of Extreme Poverty Is Not a Conclusion—It Is a Beginning: CM Pinarayi Vijayan

Thiruvananthapuram: In a historic address to the people, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan declared Kerala free of extreme poverty, calling it a “new chapter in the state’s history.” Speaking at Thiruvananthapuram Central Stadium, with ministers from various departments and actor Mammootty as chief guest, the Chief Minister highlighted the significance of the achievement for the state and its citizens.

“Kerala now stands tall before the world. This is the dawn of a new Kerala, a step toward realizing the New Kerala we envisioned. This historic moment ensures that no human life will suffer from hunger or extreme poverty. I salute and acknowledge everyone who contributed, led, and provided support to make this possible,” the Chief Minister said.

Kerala’s 69th birthday, he added, is also a celebration of the dream of a united Kerala becoming a reality. “Extreme poverty is a condition that can be overcome through human will and social intervention. It is through collective effort across the state that we have overcome this harsh reality,” the Chief Minister said.

He credited Kerala’s strong local self-governance institutions for leading and effectively coordinating efforts from start to finish. “Everyone participated in unison. The initiative was first discussed during the inaugural Cabinet meeting in 2021, alongside plans to provide housing support to homeless families, which led to the launch of the Life Mission. Today, 4,70,000 houses have been constructed, providing homes for families across the state,” he said.

Reflecting on Kerala’s past, the Chief Minister recalled a period described by Swami Vivekananda as a “madhouse” and highlighted how the state has journeyed toward enlightenment despite hardships. He pointed out that various movements across Kerala have played a key role in shaping the state’s direction.

Citing reports from India Today, the CM said, “Kerala has the happiest people in the country. Everyone should experience the fruits of development. Development is not about reaching the skies; it is about people’s happiness. Our state has declared internet access a fundamental right. Kerala was the first state in the country to set a fair price for vegetables. We are ahead in health, education, public amenities, and air quality.”

The Chief Minister emphasized that Kerala also outperforms the national average in public safety and gender equality. “The collective unity of our people has been critical in enabling the state to focus on development. The social reform messages of leaders like Sree Narayana Guru continue to influence Kerala and form the backbone of its strength. No one among our brothers and sisters should have to sleep hungry or die due to lack of treatment. This determination guided us in our mission to make Kerala free of extreme poverty,” he said.

He added, “This achievement is a matter of pride for people within and outside the state. It is not merely a welfare scheme or an act of charity. It is a practical realization of the economic equality envisaged by the Indian Constitution and the right of the poor. This understanding must be shared by all. It is the result of a people-driven process, where every citizen checked whether their neighbors were suffering from hunger.”

Recalling the situation in 2016, the Chief Minister said, “We inherited a Kerala weighed down by stalled development. Roads were broken, bridges were on the verge of collapse, welfare pensions were delayed for 18 months, and schools were closing. The state was in shock. Once the 18-month backlog of pensions was cleared, amounts began to increase. Today, pensions have risen to 2,000 rupees, benefiting six million people.”

On education, he noted, “Kerala has 16 out of the country’s first 100 colleges, and the number of students coming from abroad is increasing. Through the Public Education Protection initiative, one million students proudly returned to government schools that had faced the threat of closure. In 2021, the Vidyakiranam scheme ensured meaningful growth and improvement in public education.

“For the youth, the government has introduced the ‘Connect to Work Scholarship,’ providing financial assistance to students to secure better employment opportunities. The scheme offers a monthly support of 1,000 rupees to young men and women aged 18 to 30 whose family income is below one lakh rupees per year and who are pursuing Plus Two, ITI, diploma, or degree studies, as well as various skill courses or preparing for competitive exams. Approximately 5,00,000 young people will benefit from this initiative.”

Under the “Aardram Mission,” primary health centers have been transformed into family health centers, earning national recognition for the state’s healthcare institutions. The government continuously ensures that women receive the consideration and care they deserve.

A pioneering initiative for women’s safety was announced recently, guaranteeing monthly financial support under social welfare schemes to women from poor non-beneficiary families, including trans women. Additionally, the “Women’s Safety” pension scheme will provide 1,000 rupees per month to women aged 35 to 60. A total of 3.134 million women will benefit from these programs.

On infrastructure development, the CM said, “National highway construction has been completed, with inauguration scheduled for January. Other projects will be completed by March. The Vizhinjam Port has opened a gateway for our state’s limitless development. Road construction there is expected to be completed by December next year, as confirmed with Union Minister Nitin Gadkari.”

“Today’s announcement of the eradication of extreme poverty marks the success of a ‘people-centered alternative development model’ that Kerala presents to the world. At a time when neo-liberal policies are increasing inequality across the country, concentrating wealth in the hands of a few, Kerala proudly demonstrates that an inclusive, compassionate, and equality-driven welfare model is possible,” the Chief Minister said.

“This achievement is not merely the success of a government. It belongs to every community that stood united in the face of challenges for a New Kerala. It is the success of the Kudumbashree worker who identified an extremely poor family in her neighborhood, the volunteer who ensured medicines reached those in need, every official who participated in this people-driven mission, and above all, each citizen who placed their trust in the government,” he added.

“Our goal does not end here. The eradication of extreme poverty is not a conclusion—it is a beginning. Our ultimate aim is to create a comprehensive social structure that ensures security even for those caught in sudden crises. This people-centered alternative development model must continue uninterrupted; it is essential for the state’s future,” the Chief Minister said.

“We are confident that the people of Kerala will continue to support the realization of a New Kerala. Together, by overcoming all forces that divide or hold back the state, we can move forward toward a more prosperous, equitable, and beautiful Kerala. I salute everyone once again for making this historic achievement possible,” CM Pinarayi Vijayan said