Question

Why are special schemes being implemented in Kerala for regions like Idukki, Wayanad, and Kuttanad?

• A. To promote tourism exclusively in these areas.
• B. To reduce variations in development indicators across districts/regions for balanced intra-state development.
• C. To attract foreign investment only to these specific locations.
• D. To develop them as industrial hubs.

Answer 1

Answer:

B. To reduce variations in development indicators across districts/regions for balanced intra-state development.

Regional Disparities and Balanced Development in Kerala

• Kerala is widely recognized for its high Human Development Index (HDI) and social development achievements, often termed the 'Kerala Model of Development'.
• However, despite overall progress, the state experiences intra-state disparities in development indicators across various districts and regions.
• To address these imbalances and ensure equitable growth, the government implements special schemes and packages for historically disadvantaged or geographically unique areas.

Specific Challenges of Idukki, Wayanad, and Kuttanad:

• Idukki:
  
  • This district is characterized by its hilly terrain, dense forests, and a significant tribal population.
  • Challenges include limited connectivity, difficulties in infrastructure development, and dependency on agriculture, particularly spices and tea plantations.
  • It is also crucial for Kerala's hydroelectric power generation.
• Wayanad:
  
  • Wayanad is a predominantly tribal and hilly district known for its ecological sensitivity.
  • It lags behind other districts in several socio-economic indicators, including education, health, and access to basic amenities for its large tribal population.
  • Issues like human-wildlife conflict and livelihood security are prominent.
• Kuttanad:
  
  • Kuttanad is a unique agro-ecosystem known as the 'Rice Bowl of Kerala', where farming is done below sea level.
  • It faces severe environmental challenges such as regular flooding, saline water intrusion, waterlogging, and the impacts of climate change.
  • The region requires specific interventions for flood control, agricultural sustainability, and protecting its unique ecology. The Kuttanad Package is a significant initiative in this regard.

Objectives of Special Schemes:

• The primary objective of these special schemes is to reduce the variations in development indicators, such as per capita income, access to education and healthcare, infrastructure, and livelihood opportunities, between these regions and the more developed parts of Kerala.
• They aim to promote inclusive and sustainable development by tailoring interventions to the specific geographical, ecological, and socio-economic needs of these areas.
• By focusing on these regions, the government strives for balanced intra-state development, ensuring that no region is left behind in the overall progress of the state.
• This approach aligns with the broader goal of strengthening the 'Kerala Model' by making its benefits more uniformly distributed across the entire state.