New Delhi: In June, the World Bank said in a report that India’s extreme poverty rate had declined sharply to 5.3%, over a decade from 27.1% in 2011-12.

Come November 1, Kerala will be ‘crowned’ as India’s first state free from extreme poverty. ADVERTISEMENT

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will make the declaration at a grand event in Thiruvananthapuram’s Central Stadium. It will coincide with Kerala Piravi Day, the state’s formation day.

Leading south actors Mohanlal, Mammootty and Kamal Haasan are expected to attend the ceremony as special guests.

All state ministers and the leader of Opposition will also be invited to the programme, which will feature cultural events before and after the main ceremony.

“Kerala is once again making history by eradicating extreme poverty. Along with

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