The Kerala Model
Shashi Tharoor notes:
“In addition to having the highest literacy rate in
India (94%), Kerala also boasts a declining birth rate, higher life expectancy,
more empowered women, and stronger welfare support for the indigent and the
marginalized. People do not beg or starve in Kerala. The state offers universal
access to health care and medical information, and respects all residents as
rights-bearing citizens. No one is treated as a mere subject, as is common in
many other Indian states. Throughout the current crisis, Kerala’s educated
populace has behaved responsibly, limiting community transmission, cooperating
with authorities, and seeking prompt treatment as needed.”