Press Release 1-11-202
AIKS Salutes the LDF Government in Kerala for Eradicating Extreme Poverty
The All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS) congratulates the CPIM led LDF government in Kerala for ending “extreme poverty”, a path breaking achievement in a poverty ridden country like India. Formally announced on November 1, 2025—its 69th formation day—Kerala has accomplished an unprecedented target in the economic and social history of the Indian republic. The Extreme Poverty Eradication Project (EPEP) began in 2021 and touched 64,006 families with “tailor made solutions”. Special care was given to reach tribal hamlets and coastal communities. The project was noted for its extraordinary gender sensitive approach.
The methodologically nuanced project witnessed political leadership, scholars, experts, bureaucrats, Kudumbashree, Anganwadi and ASHA volunteers, peasants , workers,youth, students and the general public working in tandem to achieve the “impossible”. The public participation in the entire process was crucial in designing micro solutions within the macro framework. Housing, health, food and livelihood questions were identified using scientific surveys and implemented with precision.
For instance, in the realm of housing, “every identified family received a permanent, safe home”. In the realm of health, “EPEP prioritised food and healthcare for the poorest families”. According to the official data, EPEP assured “medicine and treatment for 85, 271 Individuals across 29, 427 extremely poor families”. When it comes to food, the EPEP ensured daily food for 20, 648 families and daily cooked meals to 2,210 individuals. Identified 4394 families were provided with livelihood options.
The achievement of the LDF government is significant in the current political economic situation, where an extremely pro big business BJP led NDA government is targeting Kerala with its unconstitutional “economic embargo”. It is also significant that while BJP led governments are focussing on communal polarisation and creating a conducive atmosphere for corporate looting, the LDF government has firmly stood with the constitutional promise of dignified life to all citizens. Kerala’s EPEP is an empirical testament that a combination of the political will and commitment to the working people and poor sections can do wonders.
The LDF government is a shining example for providing welfare measures for the working people and the poorest sections. According to the latest revision announced by the Kerala government, more than 62 lakh people will receive Rs2,000 per month as social security pension. It is also estimated that more than 30 lakh women will receive Rs 1,000 per month as “Sthree Suraksha Pension”. Multidimensional approach to welfare and poverty eradication is making Kerala a special case.
AIKS notes that this achievement of the LDF government is in continuation with the pro-peasant, pro-worker, pro-poor paradigm shift in the political economy initiated by the first communist ministry of Kerala led by legendary AIKS leader EMS Namboodiripad in 1957.The historic land reforms designed by the EMS ministry had altered production and social relations in Kerala.This was the foundation of Kerala’s achievements. AIKS also notes that there are concerted attempts to malign EPEP from certain vested interests. Instead of critically engaging with EPEP, outright and malicious lies and half-truths are spread against EPEP. AIKS requests all working people across the country to express solidarity with the Kerala government.
Sd/-
Vijoo Krishnan, General Secretary
Ashok Dhawale, President