Question

Kerala's high PQLI is attributed to a unique development experience with heavy emphasis on which two sectors?

• A. Agriculture and industry
• B. Trade and commerce
• C. Education and health
• D. Infrastructure and technology

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Education and health

Understanding Kerala's High PQLI: The Kerala Model

• The Physical Quality of Life Index (PQLI) is a measure developed by Morris David Morris in the mid-1970s to assess the quality of life or well-being of a country or region.
• It is based on three non-income indicators: basic literacy rate, infant mortality rate, and life expectancy at one year of age. Each indicator is scaled from 0 to 100, and the PQLI is the average of these three indices.
• A higher PQLI value indicates a better quality of life and social development. Kerala consistently ranks high in India on this index.

The Kerala Model of Development

• The 'Kerala Model' refers to the state's unique development experience, which prioritizes human development through extensive public investment in social sectors, particularly education and health, even with relatively low per capita income.
• This model emphasizes redistributive policies, strong public action, and a high degree of political and social awareness among its population.

Emphasis on Education Sector

• Historical Context: Kerala has a long history of public and missionary involvement in education, leading to high literacy rates even before independence.
• Universal Access: The state government has consistently invested heavily in public education, ensuring widespread access to schooling from primary to higher education.
• Literacy Rates: Kerala boasts the highest literacy rate in India (over 94% as per 2011 Census), which is a key component of PQLI. High literacy empowers people, improves health outcomes, and fosters social awareness.
• Teacher-Student Ratio: Favorable teacher-student ratios and well-qualified teachers in public schools are hallmarks of Kerala's education system.

Emphasis on Health Sector

• Universal Healthcare: Kerala has developed a robust public healthcare system with a wide network of primary health centers, community health centers, and district hospitals, ensuring accessible and affordable healthcare for all.
• High Health Indicators: The state has achieved health outcomes comparable to developed nations, such as:
  • Low Infant Mortality Rate (IMR): Kerala has one of the lowest IMRs in India, significantly contributing to its high PQLI.
  • High Life Expectancy: The life expectancy at birth in Kerala is among the highest in India, reflecting better health conditions and access to medical facilities.
  • Low Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR): Kerala also has one of the lowest MMRs nationally.
• Public Health Initiatives: Strong emphasis on immunization programs, sanitation, potable water supply, and awareness campaigns on health and hygiene.
• Medical Professionals: A high density of doctors and nurses per capita, along with the presence of advanced medical facilities, further strengthens the health sector.

Other Contributing Factors (for Competitive Exams)

• Land Reforms: Significant land reforms implemented in the 1960s and 70s redistributed land, reducing inequality and empowering marginalized sections.
• Decentralization: The state's strong local self-government institutions (Panchayati Raj) have played a crucial role in delivering social services effectively at the grassroots level.
• Strong Social Movements: Historically, powerful social and political movements have advocated for rights, education, and social justice.
• Remittances: A significant portion of Kerala's economy is supported by remittances from expatriates, which has indirectly contributed to improved living standards and investments in social infrastructure.