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Three Kerala models find mention in Economic Survey


Kerala’s land leasing arrangement for horticulture, its ‘localisation’ of sustainable development goals (SDG) and a waste management initiative by the Erattayar grama panchayat in Idukki district have been highlighted as success stories and models in the Economic Survey 2024-25 tabled in Parliament on Friday.

Kerala offers a replicable model for SDG localisation with its use of a “robust, community-based model that leverages its strong local governance institutions,” the Economic Survey said. It noted the role played by the State’s Local Self-Government department and the Kerala Institute of Local Administration (KILA) in incorporating SDGs into local planning. “Localisation of SDGs ensures that rural development is in harmony with international goals, focussing on essential services like housing, sanitation, water supply, and electrification. This strategy promotes inclusive growth and enhances the quality of life at the grassroots level,” it said.

The Economic Survey highlighted the State’s land leasing arrangement where self-help groups can lease land for more than three years for horticulture as “innovative.” Since the agreement lasts three to five years, it is well-suited for horticulture crops. Further, the arrangement encourages the lessee to maintain and nurture the quality of the land, with findings indicating an increase in farm efficiency in terms of input-output ratio in the case of group leased land, the Economic Survey said. “The initiative has also improved land access for the poor, as more than 85 per cent of the members are under the low-income category,” it noted.

Along with Chhindwara district of Madhya Pradesh, the Erattayar grama panchayat in Idukki district drew praise in the Economic Survey for waste management. It noted the “crucial role” played by the Haritha Karma Sena in the panchayat’s initiative which extends to over 4,600 households and 500 institutions. By focusing on waste management, the panchayat preserves the environment and creates jobs, particularly for women, it noted. “Erattayar panchayat’s approach, emphasising collaboration, innovation, and empowerment, sets an example for other communities striving for a greener, more equitable future,” it said.



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