Understanding the Voting Tendency of High Literacy States in India: Insights from Modi's Support and Opposition in Kerala and Tamil Nadu
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Literacy Rates and State Development
India's southern states, Tamil Nadu and Kerala, are recognized as some of the most literate and developed regions in the country. According to recent data, Tamil Nadu leads in NIRF ranks for higher education, with a gross enrollment ratio (GER) in higher education that is the best in the nation. Additionally, Tamil Nadu contributes significantly to the country's GDP, making it one of the most developed states in India.
Similarly, Kerala is known for its high literacy rate and progressive policies. These states often form distinct political landscapes, with Tamil Nadu's political arena dominated by regional parties like the DMK and AIADMK, and Kerala facing issues like Islamic extremism, which has been discussed by the state's high court and religious bodies.
Why High Literacy States Support Modi
High literacy states such as Tamil Nadu and Kerala have tended to support the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This is largely due to socio-economic developments and policies introduced by the BJP. For instance, the demonetization drive and the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) have had a significant impact on the country's economy, leading to increased support from various states, including Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
The Exceptions: Kerala and Tamil Nadu
However, despite their high literacy rates and economic development, Tamil Nadu and Kerala do not uniformly support Modi. The political landscape in both states is complex and often more aligned with local party ideologies. For example, Tamil Nadu is predominantly DMK or AIADMK, which have distinct political stances that often diverge from the national BJP.
In Kerala, the presence of a significant Muslim population and socio-economic factors such as issues of religious extremism further complicate the political dynamics. The state has also faced challenges related to its education system and healthcare, which may influence voter behavior differently compared to other regions.
Understanding the Complexities
The reasons behind the political choices of high literacy states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala are multifaceted. Efforts to understand these dynamics should focus on local cultural, economic, and social factors rather than generalizing based on literacy rates alone. Political movements and parties often have local roots that transcend national ideologies.
Conclusion
While high literacy rates are indicative of developed states, the political outcomes in regions like Tamil Nadu and Kerala reflect their unique socio-political contexts. The support for Modi in some developed states is a testament to the impact of economic policies, while the lack of uniform support in other states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala is indicative of the diverse political landscapes within India.
Ultimately, understanding the nuances of political behavior in high literacy states involves a comprehensive examination of local dynamics, policy impacts, and the interplay of diverse socio-cultural factors.