Telecentres for Rural Outreach in Kerala

Abstract

Kerala’s focus on social and community services over economic growth has resulted in poor economic growth, a narrow industrial and agricultural base and unemployment. Since the late 1990s, Kerala has opened up to international investment and influence in development activities. Part of the state’s governance reform agenda has included the Akshaya telecentre project which aims to promote community development in rural areas. This chapter describes the genesis and evolution of this project in its original pilot district of Malappuram. In recent years, a specific focus of the project has been to assist the district’s small farming community. The study shows that unless moderated by the state, the project tends to favour economic entrepreneurship over social development priorities. At the local level, government officers, political representatives and telecentre entrepreneurs play a crucial role in interfacing with the community. Finally, the chapter concludes that more than the technology, the Akshaya project has provided a useful social space for integrating local administrative, political and social systems.