"Agenda for Kerala's Development – 2006-2016"
December 9-11, 2005 | Thiruvananthapuram
Defining a Decade
The Second Congress was a significant academic event organized to chart the course for the state's future. It served as a massive think-tank exercise to draft a comprehensive agenda for the decade 2006–2016.
A major backdrop of the Congress was the changing global economic scenario, specifically the challenges posed by globalization and structural adjustment policies.
3,000+ Participants
Key Themes & Deliberations
The Kerala Model
Participants critically assessed the "Kerala Model," debating its sustainability in the face of economic liberalization. Discussions highlighted both achievements and the limitations that needed addressing.
Global Context
Explored the impact of the changing global economic scenario, focusing on how Kerala could protect its people-centric development against the pressures of globalization.
Inclusive Voices
The Congress provided a vital platform for critiques from marginalized groups, ensuring that the development agenda remained inclusive and addressed the needs of all sections of society.
Broad Spectrum
Sessions covered a vast range of topics including natural resources, history, politics, culture, and language, creating a holistic view of the state's identity.
Significance & Legacy
This congress stood out as a landmark event for scholars and activists. Featuring prominent figures like economist Prabhat Patnaik, it moved beyond celebration to critical introspection, influencing the intellectual direction of the Left movement in Kerala for the subsequent decade.
