Kerala for All conclave: Kerala is a fort against religious polarisation, says N. Ram

N. Ram emphasizes Kerala's role as a model for inclusive tourism and resistance against religious polarization at the 'Kerala for All' conclave.

“Kerala is a fort that resists divisive influences particularly those trying to polarise society on the basis of religion,” N. Ram, Director, The Hindu Group, has said.

He was delivering the keynote address during the inauguration of ‘Kerala For All – Tourism Without Barriers’, a two-day conclave organised jointly by Kerala Tourism and The Hindu Group, on Sunday (February 1, 2026).

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“The idea behind ‘Kerala for All’ reflects a model that combines strong social indicators with an ethos of openness, dignity and welfare governance. There are some political forces in this country, I don’t want to name them, that try to disturb this. But Kerala in a sense is a fort that resists such divisive influences, particularly those trying to polarise society on the basis of religion, sometimes based on caste but mainly religion,” Mr. Ram said.

Kerala is one of India’s most socially advanced States. “In fact, I would say it is India’s most socially advanced State. Not because of high per capita income, although that is also growing, but because of its long-standing commitment to human development, social justice and inclusive public policy,” said Mr. Ram.

A defining feature of Kerala is its exceptionally high literacy rate, among the highest in India. Its public health system is another pillar of its social achievement. It has a dense network of primary health centres, government hospitals, and community health services. This is not a fortuitous development but the result of a long-term process, said Mr. Ram.