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Kerala's Extreme Poverty Eradication Programme
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21 Mar 2025 - 3 min read
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International Relation04-Nov-2025
Canada's International Student Policy Changes
### Canada’s International Student Permit Policy Impact on Indian Applicants **Policy Changes and Visa Statistics** - Canada has reduced international student permits for two consecutive years (2024 & 2025) to mitigate temporary migration and combat visa fraud, particularly targeting students from India. - In August 2025, 74% of Indian applications for study permits were rejected, a significant increase from 32% in August 2023. - Overall study permit rejection rates remained at approximately 40% for August 2023 and August 2025. The refusal rate for Chinese applicants was 24% in August 2025. **Indian Applications Decline** - The number of Indian study permit applicants decreased sharply from 20,900 in August 2023 to 4,515 in August 2025, indicating a loss of interest in Canada as a preferred study destination. **Government Responses and Fraud Recognition** - Canadian authorities identified approximately 1,550 fraudulent study permit applications in 2023, primarily linked to false letters of acceptance from Indian institutions. - Enhanced verification protocols were put in place by Canada’s immigration department, which detected over 14,000 potentially fraudulent acceptance letters from all applicants in the previous year. - Financial requirements for study permit applicants have also been tightened. **Implications for Indian Students and Universities** - Various Canadian institutions, including the University of Waterloo, reported declines in Indian enrollment; Waterloo noted a two-thirds drop in Indian students in the last three to four years due to visa caps. - The University of Regina and the University of Saskatchewan similarly faced declines in enrollment from Indian students. **Bilateral Relations** - This tightening of permits occurs as Canada and India attempt to repair their diplomatic relations following a fallout initiated by allegations from former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau regarding India’s involvement in a crime in Canada, which India has strongly denied. **Embassy and Academic Perspectives** - The Indian embassy acknowledged the rising rejection rates but affirmed that study permits' issuance is solely Canada's decision. - The statement emphasized the academic quality of Indian students and their historical contributions to Canadian educational institutions. - Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand expressed Canada’s concern about immigration integrity while still desiring to welcome Indian students to its universities. **Industry Insights** - Guidance for prospective students has become stricter, with applicants required to demonstrate financial support through robust documentation to counter the new scrutiny measures. - The cultural climate regarding studying in Canada has shifted, with some students preferring to bypass the increasingly challenging application process. ### Key Considerations - Understanding the impact of immigration policies on international students is crucial for analyzing shifts in educational demographics. - The situation highlights ongoing tensions in international relations, particularly between India and Canada, potentially influencing future agreements and cooperative efforts. - Students and educators must stay informed about the changing landscape of study permits and immigration policy to navigate their options effectively.
Economic and Social Development04-Nov-2025
India's IT Sector Faces Transformation
### Summary Notes on India's IT Sector Transformation #### Economic Contributions - The IT sector contributes approximately **7%** to India's GDP, representing around **$280 billion** to the economy. - Despite its significant economic role, IT jobs make up only about **1%** of the Indian workforce, employing nearly **6 million people**. #### Recent Challenges - Major layoffs reported, with **TCS** announcing the loss of **20,000 jobs** in one quarter, targeting a **3.2%** reduction in workforce. - Industry estimates suggest a potential loss of over **50,000 IT jobs** by the end of the fiscal year due to a "Layoff Wave". #### Reasons for Layoffs 1. **AI-Driven Changes**: - Increasing automation replacing routine tasks, leading to a shift in demand towards high-value, AI-driven skills. - Rise of autonomous systems from companies like OpenAI fundamentally altering job roles. 2. **U.S. Immigration Policy**: - Increased H-1B visa fees and tariffs are forcing Indian firms to localize their workforce, creating cost barriers for hiring skilled labor in the U.S. 3. **Cautious Client Budgets**: - Economic uncertainty in the U.S. and Europe tightening IT budgets, changing the outsourcing model from scale to specialized expertise. #### Skill Mismatch - Many mid-career professionals lack the updated skills desirable in the current market, leading to difficulties in job placement. - Legacy skills (e.g., SAP ECC) are becoming obsolete as AI can perform related functions. #### Proposed Solutions - **Mandatory Compensation Packs**: Suggestion for requiring IT companies to provide **6-9 months’ salary** as severance for laid-off workers. - **Government Role**: Encourage curriculum overhauls in engineering education to focus on modern skills such as machine learning and AI ethics. - **Public-Private Partnerships**: Propose large-scale upskilling programs; for instance, TCS has trained **550,000 employees** in basic AI skills and **100,000 in advanced skills**. #### Future Directions - The government should bolster support for startups and innovation in the tech sector to diversify job creation. - International collaboration is crucial for ensuring visa access and trade stability. - Emphasis on mental health support and retraining resources for displaced workers. #### Conclusion - India's IT industry is transitioning from traditional manpower to a focus on mindpower and innovation. - To sustain relevance, policies must adapt to encourage skill development and modern educational approaches, ensuring that the IT workforce remains competitive in an AI-driven landscape. - **Resilience and reinvention** are key themes for navigating current challenges in the sector, and although there are shifts, the foundation of India’s IT strength remains robust.
Economic and Social Development04-Nov-2025
Kerala Achieves Milestone in Poverty Eradication
### Key Notes on Kerala's Extreme Poverty Eradication Programme (EPEP) #### Constitutional & Legislative Framework: - The success of Kerala's EPEP is supported by the principles of **Decentralized Planning** as enshrined in the **73rd Amendment** of the Constitution, which emphasizes the role of local self-governments in governance and social welfare. #### Government Schemes & Programs: - The **Extreme Poverty Eradication Programme (EPEP)** was launched in May 2021 under the leadership of Chief Minister **Pinarayi Vijayan**. - EPEP includes initiatives under the **Kerala Model**, which focuses on people-centric development and a robust welfare governance framework. - The follow-up program titled **EPEP 2.0** aims to prevent the relapse of poverty and ensures that no household re-enters extreme poverty. #### Economic Indicators: - Kerala's poverty rate decreased from **59.8% in 1973-74** to **11.3% in 2011-12**. - According to the **NITI Aayog’s National Multidimensional Poverty Index (2023)**, Kerala has the lowest multidimensional poverty rate in India at **0.55%**, compared to the national average of **14.96%**. #### Implementation Strategy: - The program was executed with the help of **nearly 400,000 trained enumerators** and local bodies, ensuring comprehensive identification of the extreme poor. - A total of **64,006 families** (1,03,099 individuals), identified through a tailored four-point criteria (food, health, livelihood, housing), received targeted assistance. #### Welfare Measures: - Custom-made micro plans were developed for each identified family, providing: - Essential identification documents - Housing - Livelihood support - Medical assistance (including regular medicines and organ transplants) - Nutritional support (cooked meals) - Palliative care #### Challenges and Criticism: - Despite the achievements, there are ongoing criticisms regarding the effectiveness of poverty eradication efforts, especially concerning the tribal population's conditions. - Doubts have been raised about economic growth, particularly stagnant growth and rising unemployment, prompting the government to accelerate infrastructure projects and green industry initiatives. #### Community Dynamics: - The program exhibits a **community-driven model** of welfare governance, emphasizing grassroots democracy and social equity. - Kerala’s approach suggests that welfare and economic growth can coexist, providing a model for sustainable development. #### Conclusion: - Kerala's EPEP presents a significant case study in poverty alleviation, showcasing the effectiveness of localized governance and targeted welfare approaches, while also highlighting the complexities and challenges faced in addressing multidimensional poverty comprehensively.
National and international importance.04-Nov-2025
Supreme Court Addresses Digital Arrest Scams
### Exam-Focused Notes on Supreme Court Ruling on Digital Arrest Scam #### Key Facts and Figures: - **Scammed Amount**: Over ₹3,000 crore reported scammed from victims, primarily the elderly, through digital fraud. - **Judicial Observation**: Supreme Court judges highlighted the extensive nature of these scams, indicating the problems are larger than anticipated. #### Constitutional and Legal References: - **Judicial Precedent**: The Supreme Court has taken **suo motu cognizance** of the issue, emphasizing the judiciary's role in addressing cyber crimes affecting seniors, a vulnerable segment of the population. - **Government Inquiry**: The Union Government submitted a confidential report to the Supreme Court, acknowledging the alarming scale of digital scams. #### Government Actions and Policies: - **CBI Involvement**: Supreme Court proposed to task the *Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)* with probing digital arrests orchestrated by fraudsters impersonating law enforcement and judicial officials. - **Cyber Crime Infrastructure**: Attorney General R. Venkataramani noted the involvement of organized crime elements across borders, utilizing advanced technologies for scams. #### Economic Data: - **Extent of Scams**: The report suggests the issue of digital arrest scams is not only prevalent within India but raises concerns on a global scale, hinting at significant economic implications tied to cyber crimes and fraud. #### International and National Impact: - **Global Concerns**: Solicitor General Tushar Mehta raised concerns about the international ramifications, given the cross-border nature of the scams, linked to organized money-laundering operations. #### Technology and Cybersecurity Insights: - **Technological Exploitation**: Fraudsters are using advanced technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, to manipulate identities (including morphing faces of judges), forging documents, and simulating law enforcement environments. #### Human Rights and Social Issues: - **Victim Profile**: Vulnerable populations, primarily senior citizens, are being targeted, exacerbating issues related to elder abuse and financial exploitation. - **Human Trafficking Link**: Victims are being promised overseas employment and subsequently fall into trafficking situations, highlighting a severe human rights issue associated with these scams. #### Recommendations and Future Implications: - **Judiciary's Role**: The Supreme Court indicated a readiness to issue stringent orders to bolster agencies combating these scams, stressing the need for decisive action against offenders to prevent further escalation of fraud. - **CERT-In Advisory**: The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has released advisory guidelines aimed at the public, urging caution against online scams and recommending protective measures against fraudulent tactics. This summary encapsulates the critical aspects of the ruling by the Supreme Court regarding digital arrest scams, highlighting administrative, legal, and socio-economic dimensions relevant for exam preparation.
Economic and Social Development02-Nov-2025
Bank Advances Surge in Festive Season
### Economic Overview of Bank Advances and Consumer Spending (September - October 2025) 1. **Bank Advances Increase:** - Bank advances surged over **100%** from the same period last year due to lower GST rates and the Diwali festival. - Retail loans, especially for vehicle purchases, consumer durables, and personal-use goods, saw significant growth. - From September 5 to October 17, 2025, bank loans increased by **Rs 4.1 lakh crore**, reaching **Rs 192.192 lakh crore** compared to **Rs 188 lakh crore** previously. 2. **Year-over-Year Comparison:** - In the same fortnight in 2024, advances had increased by **Rs 1.91 lakh crore**, highlighting a substantial rise in current year-to-date figures. - Year-on-year bank credit rose by **11.45%**, marking the highest growth in nine months. 3. **GST Reforms:** - The **Next-Gen Goods and Services Tax (GST)** reforms, effective **September 22, 2025**, introduced a simplified two-slab structure of **5% and 18%**, spurring domestic demand. - This reduction has particularly benefited sectors such as housing, automobiles, and white goods. 4. **Consumer Sentiment and Spending:** - Improved consumer sentiment and easier credit availability led to increased spending, notably in vehicle loan segments showing over **25%** growth during Q2 (July-September 2025). - The **MSME sector** saw a demand for loans increase by **12.7%** in the same quarter, driven by rising consumption. 5. **Impact on GDP:** - The Indian government's strategies, including GST cuts, are anticipated to significantly impact GDP growth. - Current GDP stands at **Rs 335 lakh crore**, with **Rs 202 lakh crore** attributed to consumption. Anticipated consumption growth could exceed **10%**, adding an estimated **Rs 20 lakh crore** this year. 6. **Forecasts for Continued Growth:** - Analysts predict that bank loan growth will remain strong in the second half of FY 2025-26 due to the positive effects of GST reforms, income tax relief from the Union Budget, and favorable economic conditions like good monsoons and lower inflation rates. 7. **Inflation Trends:** - The **Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation** dropped to **1.5%** in September from **2.1%** in August, marking the lowest since June 2017. - The decrease is expected to improve real disposable income, likely contributing to higher consumer spending. 8. **Policy Support:** - The Union Budget 2025-26 introduced income tax relief, projected to enhance consumer purchasing power in subsequent months. - Economists have noted that relief in tax expenses will stimulate spending, especially during the second half of the fiscal year, as households will have greater discretionary income due to reduced taxation. ### Conclusion In summary, the trends in bank advances and consumer spending during the festive season underscore significant economic revitalization driven by regulatory reforms (GST cuts) and consumer behavior changes. The anticipated continued growth in bank credit and consumption is expected to positively influence India’s GDP throughout the fiscal year.
National and international importance.02-Nov-2025
Bihar MLA Arrested Amid Satellite Launch
**Summary of Key Information from News Article:** 1. **Judicial and Political Developments:** - Anant Singh, a former Bihar MLA, arrested in connection with the murder of Jan Suraaj supporter Dular Chand Yadav. He is set to contest for the Mokama seat on a JD(U) ticket under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. 2. **Space Technology Updates:** - ISRO announced the launch countdown for CMS-03, a 4,410 kg communication satellite, marking it as the heaviest satellite launched from Indian soil. It will be placed in a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). 3. **International Relations and Diplomacy:** - The Ministry of Home Affairs clarified claims regarding the deportation of a Nepali health professional at Delhi airport, denying discrimination against Nepali citizens. 4. **Election Process in West Bengal:** - Booth-Level Officers (BLOs) conducted training sessions for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of West Bengal’s electoral rolls, seeking clarity on attendance and security measures for their roles during the revision process. 5. **Sports Diplomacy:** - Lionel Messi's 'GOAT Tour to India 2025' expanded to include Hyderabad, emphasizing significant regional engagement after the cancellation of an earlier friendly match in Kerala. 6. **International Military Actions:** - Ukrainian forces reportedly targeted a significant fuel pipeline in Russia that supplies its armed forces amidst ongoing conflicts and retaliatory campaigns by both countries. 7. **Economic and Social Developments:** - The transformation of Bastar, Chhattisgarh, highlighted improved access to markets, education, and welfare benefits for tribal communities after years of violence and isolation. 8. **Tourism and Environmental Conditions:** - Continuous adverse weather conditions have led to flight suspensions at Lukla airport in Nepal, stranding hundreds of tourists due to poor visibility. 9. **Cultural Recognitions:** - Lucknow has been designated a UNESCO ‘Creative City of Gastronomy,’ recognizing its rich Awadhi cuisine and diverse cultural heritage during the 43rd Session of the UNESCO General Conference in Uzbekistan. **Overall Contextual Highlights:** - **Constitutional Reference:** Not directly cited in the article. - **Laws and Policies:** Mention of the electoral roll revision process in West Bengal. - **Government Schemes:** Implicit focus on welfare benefits and social justice in Bastar. - **Economic Data:** Not specifically mentioned; however, implications of social development may suggest improving economic conditions. - **International Events:** Ukrainian military actions against Russia and sports diplomacy through Messi's tour. - **Science & Technology:** Spotlight on ISRO's capabilities with satellite launches. - **Tourism and Environment:** Issues related to tourism impacted by environmental conditions in Nepal. - **Cultural History:** Recognition of traditional foods in Lucknow underlines historical and cultural importance acknowledged by UNESCO. This summary captures vital factual elements relevant for academic, judicial, and international studies within the context of the article.
International Relation02-Nov-2025
Indian Firms Import Rare Earth Magnets
### Summary of Import Permits for Chinese Rare Earth Magnets by Indian Companies #### Import Permits and Conditions - Four Indian companies (DE Diamond, Hitachi, Continental India) have received conditional permits to import Chinese rare earth magnets, marking the first approvals since April when China imposed strict export controls. - The conditional permits include various export controls and conditions specified by the Chinese authorities. #### Context of Export Controls - The export control was suspended for one year as part of a trade agreement between the US and China, reached during a summit between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. - The controls, effective since April 4, significantly impacted global automakers, particularly electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers in India, risking shortages of critical components and potential cost increases. #### Importance of Rare Earth Magnets - Rare earth magnets, specifically neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB), are essential for EV manufacturing, driving electric motors and powering critical components like power steering and braking systems. - China dominates the global market for these magnets, complicating procurement efforts for Indian companies. #### Challenges in Importing Magnets - Indian companies are required to guarantee that the magnets will only be used in vehicles, explicitly prohibiting defense or military applications. - The importation process involves significant bureaucratic hurdles, including various endorsements from Indian government departments (e.g., DGFT) before submission to Chinese authorities. - Additional requirements include endorsements from local governments, intensifying the complexity and duration of obtaining permits. #### Alternative Sourcing and Risk Mitigation - Indian firms are exploring alternate sources for rare earth magnets, although China's efficient processing capabilities present a significant challenge. - Discussions reveal a shift in requirements from Chinese suppliers, suggesting that instead of sourcing magnets separately, manufacturers may need to purchase whole electric motor assemblies, complicating vehicle designs. #### International Context and Trade Relations - The restrictions come amid broader trade tensions, including China's limitations on exporting several rare heavy rare earth elements to the US and the recent exclusion of key materials like gallium and germanium. - Japan's resurgence in mineral processing due to proactive government policies contrasts with the heavy dependency of India and the US on Chinese exports. #### Conclusion - The landscape of rare earth magnet imports from China poses challenges for Indian automakers, emphasizing the need for strategic sourcing, adaptive policies, and international collaboration to mitigate supply chain risks in the rapidly evolving EV market.
Economic and Social Development02-Nov-2025
Kerala Achieves Extreme Poverty Eradication
### Summary of Key Points on Kerala's Poverty Eradication Achievement 1. **Kerala's Milestone**: - Kerala became the first state in India to eradicate extreme poverty, as announced on Kerala Piravi (November 1) by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. 2. **Definition of Extreme Poverty**: - Defined by the World Bank as living on less than $3 per day (2021 purchasing power parity). - Distinction: - Extreme Poverty: <$3/day - Lower-middle-income Poverty: <$4.20/day - Upper-middle-income Poverty: <$8.30/day 3. **Poverty Data**: - **Global Figures**: 838 million people estimated to be living in extreme poverty in 2022. - **India's Progress**: Extreme poverty decreased from 16.2% in 2011-12 to 2.3% in 2022-23, equating to about 171 million individuals no longer categorized as extremely poor. - **Employment Data**: Urban employment at its lowest in years at 6.6% for Q1 FY24/25; youth employment at 13.3%, with significant disparities. 4. **Kerala's Approach**: - Implementation of the Extreme Poverty Eradication Programme (EPEP). - Focus on tailoring micro-plans to individual family needs in food, health, housing, and education. - **Targeted Training**: Over 400,000 individuals trained to identify and assist families at risk of extreme poverty. 5. **Identification and Support**: - 118,309 families identified as living in extreme poverty; process refined to 59,000 families after verification. - Specific interventions included: - Provision of homes for 4,005 out of 4,677 identified homeless families under the Life Mission scheme. - Meal support for 20,648 families facing food insecurity. - Launch of the Avakasam Athivegam campaign to provide essential documents and services to beneficiary families. 6. **Constitutional References and Policies**: - Reflects India's commitment under the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) for welfare and social security. - Government’s initiative aligns with global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to eradicate poverty. 7. **Political and Social Collaboration**: - The CPI(M) general secretary, M A Baby, acknowledged the need for collective political efforts to address remaining issues despite the achievement. - Recognition of the opposition's support in the poverty alleviation efforts. ### Economic Context: - Kerala's model can provide insights into effective poverty eradication strategies that hinge on localized decision-making and targeted interventions, reflecting ongoing governmental policies on welfare and social security. This summarization highlights the significant achievement of Kerala in achieving extreme poverty eradication through targeted governmental efforts, applicable policies, and frameworks guiding their approach while situating this accomplishment within the larger global context of poverty alleviation.
Economic and Social Development01-Nov-2025
AI Boosts India's Horticulture Sector
### Summary Notes on the Dutch-Indian Horticultural Collaboration #### Project Overview: - **Initiative Launch**: A collaboration between the Dutch government and the Indian horticultural sector to develop technology-driven solutions for sustainable, pesticide-free food production in India. - **Consortium**: HortiRoad2India, a public-private partnership aimed at introducing advanced horticultural practices. #### Key Objectives: - **Sustainable Agriculture**: Focus on developing greenhouses that emphasize water conservation and energy efficiency. - **Climate Resilience**: Adoption of technologies and practices that facilitate climate-resilient crop production. #### Technology and Practices: - **Types of Greenhouses**: Introduction of mid-tech and high-tech greenhouses, including glass houses, which are more efficient than conventional polyhouses. - **Crop specializations**: - High-tech glass houses for crops like strawberries, colored capsicum, cherry tomatoes. - Mid-tech greenhouses for tomatoes, optimizing production based on crop needs. - **Resource Efficiency**: - Water usage reduced by 96% compared to conventional field cultivation. - Yield potential is 30 times greater for crops like tomatoes. - **Pesticide Management**: Utilizes biological control methods instead of pesticides and does not employ genetically modified organisms (GMOs). #### Economic Implications: - **Market Linkages and Technology Consultation**: The initiative includes education, training, and financial models developed with Indian banks to support farmers. - **Post-Harvest Loss Reduction**: Establishing cold storage units to minimize food waste and improve supply chain efficiency. - **Cluster Farming Model**: Develops clusters of high-value crop producing greenhouses near urban centers to reduce transportation losses. #### Impact on Farmers: - **Economic Sustainability**: Promises sustainable incomes for farmers and converts farming into a more technical profession. - **Employment Generation**: The initiative aims to create jobs in rural areas and promote local agriculture. #### Implementation Locations: - **Target Regions**: Projects are planned in urban areas like Bengaluru, Chennai, and Punjab with local farmer investments in greenhouses. #### Stakeholder Insights: - **Benefits to Consumers**: Assurance of availability of clean and pesticide-free food. - **Demand for Quality Produce**: Farmers, like Ramakrishna from Bengaluru, emphasize increasing production to meet consumer demand by utilizing Dutch techniques. #### Involvement of Local Entrepreneurs: - The initiative encourages investment from Indian business leaders, particularly in tech, to enhance the sustainability and profitability of the horticultural sector. ### Miscellaneous Information: - The project reflects a growing trend towards utilizing technology to combat agricultural challenges and promote food security, aligning with India's broader goals of increasing agricultural productivity and sustainability. ### Conclusion: The Dutch-Indian horticultural collaboration exemplifies the integration of advanced agricultural technologies and sustainable practices aimed at revolutionizing the horticultural landscape in India, ensuring both environmental sustainability and economic viability. This partnership aligns with the global focus on sustainable development and responsible food production.
Science and Technology01-Nov-2025
India's Readiness for AI Future
- **Education Infrastructure and AI Readiness**: - India's education infrastructure is inadequate; many schools, especially in regions like Bihar, lack basic amenities such as internet access and proper classrooms. - The emphasis on the 'e' in e-education is criticized without a corresponding focus on quality education and teacher access. - This situation raises concerns about India's readiness to adopt AI technologies effectively. - **Sabarimala Temple Controversy**: - The Sabarimala temple has become a point of contention, with calls from devotees for political neutrality in spiritual matters. - The Devaswom Board is urged to focus on logistical support for devotees, encompassing safe travel, adequate food, water, and shelter. - **Sports and Youth Inspiration**: - Jemimah Rodrigues, an emerging star in Indian cricket, exhibited exceptional skill and mental resilience during a crucial match, symbolizing hope and inspiration for young aspiring athletes. - The incident surrounding the tragic death of 17-year-old Australian cricketer Ben Austin highlights ongoing concerns regarding player safety in sports, reminiscent of similar tragedies in the past. - **Contextual Understanding**: - The dialogues reflect broader societal issues such as infrastructure development, the importance of educational reforms, political involvement in religious matters, and safety in sports, all of which carry implications for national policy and public discourse. (Note: The content strictly highlights relevant themes from the provided article and excludes personal opinions, dates, and irrelevant details.)
Economic and Social Development01-Nov-2025
Kerala Achieves Extreme Poverty Eradication
### Summary of Key Points on Kerala's Eradication of Extreme Poverty #### Achievement Highlights - Kerala, under Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, has announced the eradication of extreme poverty, becoming the first Indian state to achieve this status. - Despite this progress, issues persist, prompting calls for cooperation among political parties to address remaining challenges. #### Definition of Extreme Poverty - **Extreme Poverty Threshold**: Defined by the World Bank as living on less than $3 per day (2021 PPP). - **Poverty Classification**: - Lower-middle-income countries: Below $4.20 per day. - Upper-middle-income countries: Below $8.30 per day. - The World Bank revised the international poverty line from $2.15 to $3.00 in June 2025 based on 2017 PPP. #### Current Global and National Context - **Global Status**: Approximately 838 million people lived in extreme poverty as of 2022. - **India's Progress**: - Extreme poverty reduced from 16.2% (2011-12) to 2.3% (2022-23), translating to 171 million people lifted above this threshold. - Employment improvements noted, though youth employment and gender disparities remain issues. #### Kerala's Strategic Approach - **Extreme Poverty Eradication Programme (EPEP)**: Launched shortly after the Vijayan government took office in May 2021. - Local self-government department implemented micro-plans targeting: - **Health** - **Food Security** - **Shelter** - **Education** - Identified a total of 118,309 families facing extreme poverty, narrowed down to 59,000 after verification processes. #### Specific Interventions - **Life Mission Scheme**: Provided homes to 4,005 out of 4,677 homeless families identified. - Food support was extended to 20,648 families lacking steady food supply. - **Avakasam Athivegam Campaign**: Ensured beneficiary families received crucial civic documentation and essential services. #### Societal and Economic Indicators - Employment trends indicate urban employment was at 6.6%, the lowest since 2017-18. - Gender employment rate stands at 31%, with only 23% of non-farm jobs being formalized, indicating a significant informal sector in agriculture and self-employment. #### Political Context and Support - Recognition of the role played by the Opposition in supporting the government’s initiatives to address extreme poverty. ### Conclusion Kerala's achievement in eradicating extreme poverty showcases targeted governance and community involvement, even as the state continues to face socio-economic challenges that require a collective political approach. The success in implementing localized solutions under EPEP serves as a model for poverty alleviation initiatives across India.
Economic and Social Development01-Nov-2025
Millets Now Initiative Recognized Nationally
**Exam-Focused Summary of Key Facts and Data:** 1. **Award and Recognition**: - **Rohini Nayyar Prize**: Ms. Vidhya Parshuramkar awarded this prize for Outstanding Contribution to Rural Development. - She is the first woman and youngest recipient of this honor, which includes a trophy, a cash prize of ₹10 lakh, and a citation. - Announced at the India International Centre, New Delhi, by Professor S. Mahendra Dev, Chairperson of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister. 2. **Contribution to Rural Development**: - **Millets Now Initiative**: Provides Nutri Dabbas—meal packs rich in pearl millet and Vitamin C—to about four lakh school children across rural India. - The project started by serving 300 school children in a Pune village and has expanded to support 7,000 small-holder farmers. - Focuses on purchasing grain from small farmers, improving quality, and enhancing the shelf life of pearl millet flour from 10 days to 6 months. 3. **Innovation and Technology**: - Development of technology for preserving pearl millet flour, central to Agrozee Organics' Millets Now initiative. - Involvement of women and anganwadi workers through self-help groups in the production and distribution process of Nutri Dabba. 4. **Economic Indicators**: - Nutri Dabba initiative contributes towards rural food security and nutrition among school children. - Engages local farmers, supporting economic growth in rural communities. 5. **Policies and Frameworks**: - Ms. Parshuramkar's initiatives align with the objectives of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), which supports employment and sustainable livelihoods in rural areas. - The project reflects principles similar to the *Right to Food* enshrined in Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, contributing to food security. 6. **Future Plans**: - Plans to expand the Millets Now initiative to South Asian countries, aiming to address similar nutritional challenges. 7. **Empowerment and Gender**: - Ms. Parshuramkar highlights challenges faced by women in entrepreneurship and advocates for female participation in the start-up culture, emphasizing their emotional resilience. 8. **Judicial and Policy Insight**: - The award signifies recognition of economic and social contributions to public policy in India, acknowledging foundational work in multi-dimensional poverty indices by economist Rohini Nayyar. This overview underscores the significant intersection of innovation, women's empowerment, rural development, and public policy, with the Millets Now initiative showcasing a model for addressing nutritional deficiencies and supporting local economies.