Kerala's economic growth has not kept pace with its social development, leading to persistent poverty.
A key factor is the high unemployment rate, especially among the educated, suggesting a gap between skills and job availability.
Income inequality is also on the rise, widening the gap between the affluent and the poor.
The state's economy relies heavily on remittances, but this hasn't spurred sufficient domestic investment or job creation.
Additionally, areas with poor connectivity, particularly near forest zones, tend to have higher poverty rates due to limited job prospects and productivity.
These factors create a cycle of poverty for vulnerable populations.