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With 34 lakes, extensive network of backwaters, 49 rain-fed rivers, streams, lakes and other water bodies and adequate rainfall of approximately 118 inches, the state has abundant water resources. It is not surprising why the economy of Kerala is primarily agrarian.
The most essential crop of Kerala is rice or paddy. There are around 600 varieties of rice cultivated in Kerala. Kuttinad region grows the major chunk of rice in Kerala and rightly earned the epitaph “rice bowl of the state.” Next to rice crop, comes tapioca which is cultivated mainly in drier regions.
Spices are essential cash crops of the state. In fact, the custom of cultivating spices is as old as 3000 years old. The aroma of these spices lured foreigners to India in the medieval ages. Cardamom, nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla, clove and pepper are major cash crops. Kerala produces 96% of country’s pepper. Cardamom is exported and brings great revenues to the country. Cashew is also a major revenue-making cash crop. Among others are tea, coffee, coconut, areca nut and ginger. Coconut is principal source of income. Around 70% of Indian output of coconuts is produced in Kerala alone.
Kerala is also a major natural rubber producing state. It produces approximately 91% of natural rubber of the country. Natural rubber is mainly produced and processed in Kottyam district.
Banana and other plantains also cultivated in plenty. There are many varieties of banana grown in Kerala including small, green and yellow banana. Home gardens in Kerala also add to the state economy.
Apart from agriculture, other industrial bases which contribute to the state economy are tourism, infrastructure, IT, machine tools and electronics. Although per capita income in Kerala is less than that in many other states, its human development index and standard of living statistics are best in the country.
The picturesque landscape, golden beaches, exotic rice barges, azure backwaters, soothing greenery, exhilarating hill stations and rich traditional heritage, all these factors contribute to make Kerala a tourists’ hotspot.
Besides, other points of interest that lure the travelers are its highest literacy rate in the country, lowest infant mortality rate, highest quality of life and highest life expectancy. With all these unique natural, cultural and social resources, Kerala deserves every bit of the sobriquet “God’s own country.”
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