Question

Which of the following is a primary characteristic of the "Kerala Model" of development?

• A. High per capita income and high social indicators.
• B. Primary reliance on heavy industrialization for economic growth.
• C. Low per capita income but high social indicators.
• D. An economic system entirely based on free-market principles without government intervention.

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Low per capita income but high social indicators.

• The "Kerala Model" is a widely studied concept.

• It's a paradox where, historically, the state achieved high levels of literacy, life expectancy, and low infant mortality rates—social indicators typically associated with developed nations—despite having a relatively lower per capita income compared to more industrialized states.

• This has changed somewhat in recent years, as Kerala's per capita income has risen significantly.