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Economist R. Ramakumar urges Left to analyze Kerala's neoliberal changes

Economist R. Ramakumar addressed transformations in Kerala society during neoliberal times at EMS Memorial Lecture on June 13, 2026. He stressed urgent need for Left to examine tenfold increase in unorganised workers alongside emergence of a new affluent middle class in the state.

BRIC Team
BRIC Team
Jun 13, 2026 · 1 min read
Economist R. Ramakumar urges Left to analyze Kerala's neoliberal changes

Key Takeaways

  • R. Ramakumar delivered the EMS Memorial Lecture on June 13, 2026, focusing on Kerala's societal transformations during the neoliberal era.
  • The emergence of a new middle class in Kerala includes affluent owners of private educational institutions and large hospitals.
  • Unorganised workers in Kerala have surged tenfold compared to their organised counterparts, highlighting significant class shifts.
  • Ramakumar emphasized that understanding Kerala's evolving class dynamics is essential for the Left to address socio-economic challenges.

Economist R. Ramakumar stressed need for Left to examine shifts in Kerala society during neoliberal era . At EMS Memorial Lecture "India and the Left," on Saturday,June 13, 2026, he noted neoliberalism has driven major social changes.

Ramakumar said rise of new middle class marks this era. A growing affluent class now includes owners of private schools, large hospitals,tourism businesses,and construction firms. Reflects broader economic shifts reshaping Kerala's social fabric.

He also pointed out a staggering rise in unorganised workers,numbers surging tenfold over their organised peers. Raises questions about changing class structure and implications for workers in state .

Ramakumar's comments highlight urgency for thorough analysis of these societal changes. He argued understanding Kerala's class dynamics is key for Left to tackle current socio-economic challenges…

#Kerala

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