The "Kerala model" of development: development and sustainability in the Third World
Parayil, G.
Third World Quarterly 17(5): 941-957
1996
ISSN/ISBN: 0143-6597 PMID: 12321040 DOI: 10.1080/01436599615191Document Number: 306805
The Indian state of Kerala is identified as a model for sustainable development, applicable to other developing country situations. In less than 30 years, Kerala has made a transition from a society with high infant mortality, rates, high fertility and population growth rates, and a high crude death rate to one with a low infant mortality rate, very low population growth, and a low crude death rate. In addition average life expectancy has increased to above the national average and almost full literacy has been achieved. Different sections discuss: the socioeconomic and political make up of Kerala; and the use of Kerala as a model for development. It is concluded that the Kerala model should be studied for improvements to traditional models and possible replication. It has come closest to the sustainable development ideal in practice.