Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan declared that Kerala will officially be recognized as a state free from extreme poverty on November 1, 2025. The announcement comes as the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government marks the fourth anniversary of its second term, showcasing one of its most ambitious and transformative social achievements.
Speaking at a public function held at the Pinarayi Convention Centre in Kannur, the Chief Minister also revealed that Dharmadam, his own constituency, has become the first in Kerala to be fully free of extreme poverty.
This milestone follows a state-wide campaign launched in August 2021, targeting 64,002 families identified as living in extreme poverty. Through micro-level planning and personalized intervention strategies, the government has already uplifted around 44,000 families, ensuring access to food, healthcare, housing, and income opportunities. The remaining families are expected to be integrated into the mainstream before the November deadline.
Kerala’s model has garnered national attention for its inclusive development approach and strong commitment to social welfare, setting a powerful example for poverty eradication initiatives across the country.