Question

Which among the following explains the paradox of the Kerala model?

• A. High unemployment despite high literacy and social development
• B. High industrialisation but low per capita income
• C. High per capita income but low inequality
• D. High birth rate and low infant mortality

Answer 1

Answer:

A. High unemployment despite high literacy and social development

• The Kerala Model of Development is a celebrated anomaly because the state achieved social indicators comparable to developed nations with a relatively low per capita income and modest economic growth.

• The central paradox is:

  1.High Social Development: Kerala boasts the highest literacy rates, life expectancy, and lowest infant mortality rates in India.

  2.Economic Lag/Failure: Despite its highly educated population, the state has historically faced high rates of unemployment (especially educated unemployment), slow industrial growth, and a heavy reliance on remittances from Gulf migrants to sustain its economy and high consumption levels.