The Deception Behind Kerala’s Claim of Being India's Most Advanced State
Often touted as India's most advanced state, Kerala's claim is frequently challenged when one delves deeper into its social and economic realities. While some highlight Kerala's high Human Development Index (HDI) of 0.79, which is on par with countries like Cuba, Sri Lanka, Albania, and Bosnia-Herzegovina, raising questions about the true nature of advanced development.
Economic Backwardness and Dependence on Remittances
Economically, Kerala ranks among the slowest-growing states in India. With a lack of substantial industrial activity and a stagnant agricultural sector, the state's economy is heavily reliant on remittances from the Middle East. This reliance has led to several social issues, including a significant drain of population to other states and countries for employment opportunities. The lack of industrial development and jobs for university graduates has forced many young Keralites to seek employment in places such as Bengaluru or abroad, further exacerbating the economic stagnation.
The ineffective waste and sewage disposal systems in cities and towns are also a hallmark of the state's backward economy. The absence of proper infrastructure contributes to a lower quality of life and environmental degradation.
Love Jihad and Social Issues
A stark example of social issue is the phenomenon known as 'love jihad,' which has been a source of controversy. This movement, aiming at inter-religious marriages, particularly of lower-caste Hindus to upper-caste Muslims, is seen by many as a destabilizing force. Critics argue that it forces lower-caste youth to target wealthy families in the hope of achieving financial security through marriage, implying a lack of social justice and equal opportunities.
Further contributing to the socio-economic disparity is the fact that minorities who become wealthy are often given preferential treatment by politicians and government bodies, while Hindus, particularly those from poorer backgrounds, are marginalized and become poorer over time. This situation has been politicized, with various parties exploiting such socio-economic disparities to garner votes.
Political Instability and Governance Issues
The political climate in Kerala is marked by instability, with frequent changes in leadership and a lack of concrete policies for industrial development. A common narrative among politicians is the restriction of industrial development to promote the consumption of locally produced liquor. This action has been criticized as a widespread drain on the cognitive abilities and decision-making capacities of the citizens, turning the state into a place of social degeneration.
The current political situation has led to a series of hastily made laws and policies that are more about short-term gain through vote bank politics rather than long-term sustainable development. The rhetoric often centers around communal divisions for electoral purposes, which further complicates the socio-economic fabric of the state.
Conclusion and Way Forward
While Kerala's HDI is indeed high, this does not equate to overall advanced development. The dependency on remittances, social issues like love jihad, political instability, and poor governance all play a significant role in the state's progress. It is crucial for Kerala to focus on sustainable solutions to its socio-economic challenges and to move away from short-term gains driven by political expediency.
As the electorate, it is important to demand better from political leaders and to engage in meaningful debates to foster a more equitable and economically robust state. Voting for parties and leaders who prioritize sustained development and inclusive policies can help transform Kerala into a truly advanced state of India.