The Economics of Dravidian
Model: Justice and Equity for All
Presentation by
Dr.K.Prabhakar, Professor (Rtd)
6/11/2025
ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 1
Introduction
A Proven Model of Inclusive Growth with Social Justice
The Central Conclusion: The Dravidian Model has successfully balanced high
economic growth with a deep commitment to social justice.
A New Paradigm: Unlike models that prioritize growth at the expense of equity, Tamil
Nadu demonstrates that the two can be achieved simultaneously.
This presentation distils the 15 key successes of this model, as empirically
validated using advanced statistical tools.
6/11/2025
ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 2
Economic Growth (State GDP)
Tamil Nadu's Economic Growth (2023-24)
Growth Rate: 9.69% (highest among large
states), vs. India’s 6.5%.
Sector Contribution to GSVA:
Services: 53.63%
Manufacturing: 33.37%
Agriculture: 13%
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 3
Different Schemes and Budgetary
Allocation
Program/Scheme Budget Allocation (₹ Crore) Details
Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thittam 13,807 Monthly ₹1,000 assistance to 1.15 crore women, totalling ₹12,720
crore annually.
Fare-Free Bus Travel for Women 3,600 Subsidy for women, saving ₹888/month on average, fifty lakh daily
users.
Working Women’s Hostels 77 Ten new 'Thozhi' hostels, thirteen already functioning.
Children Who Lost Both Parents - ₹2,000 monthly stipend for education until age 18, ~50,000 families.
Urban Women’s Safety 50 Focus on secure spaces and infrastructure.
Women Entrepreneurs Initiative 225 Skill development and loans up to ₹10 lakh with 20% subsidy.
‘Anbucholai’ Old Age Homes 10 Twenty-five centres in ten cities for senior citizens’ well-being.
Moovalur Ramamirtham Ammaiyar Scheme 420 ₹1,000 monthly for 4.06 lakh girls for higher education.
CM Breakfast Scheme Extension 600 Extended to three lakh additional students.
Government Schools Infrastructure 1,000 Improving infrastructure in government schools.
Kalaignar Kanavu Illam Housing 3,500 Construction of one lakh houses, total 8 lakh by 2030.
Health and Family Welfare 21,906 Overall allocation for health services, including cervical cancer
vaccination (₹40 crore).
Rural Development and Panchayat Raj 29,465 Includes MGNREGS and rural infrastructure development, pending
₹3,796 crore from Centre.
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 4
How social toxicity manifests for
SC/ST in India
Life Stage SC/ST Female Mortality Risk
Factor
Magnitude vs General
Population
Infancy Vaccine-preventable diseases 2.3× higher
Reproductive
Age
Pregnancy-related sepsis 1.7× higher
Adulthood Chronic kidney disease (from
dehydration)
3.1× higher
Elderly Early-onset dementia (nutritional
deficits)
2.8× higher
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 5
Methodology
Tamil Nadu's Dravidian Model: Socio-Economic Impact
Study Focus: Evaluates reservation policies on income distribution, employment, & social equity (FY 2020-21 to FY
2024-25).
Data Sources: RBI, Tamil Nadu Economic Survey 2024-25, NFHS-5, World Bank reports (No primary data collection).
Key Economic Metrics:
GSDP: ₹27.22T (FY 2023-24) → Projected ₹31.55T (FY 2024-25) (16% growth)
Per Capita Income: ₹315,220 (FY 2023-24) (1.71x national avg.)
Implications:
Strong investment potential & diversified economic base (agriculture, manufacturing, services).
Caste-based income distribution modeling enhances policy assessment.
6/11/2025
ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 6
Labor Force Participation Rate
Age Group Participation Rate
2021
Projected Participation Rate 2025 Remarks
Prime Working Age (25-44) Highest 80.5% Highest participation rates observed
Youth (15-24) 32.5% 34.5% Lowest participation, steady increase
Older Workers (60+) Lower 30% Consistent growth, productively employed
Trend Analysis Gradual increase Improvement Broad-based improvement across age groups
Caste Group LFPR 2021 Projected LFPR 2025 Remarks
ST (Scheduled Tribes) 52% 54% Highest LFPR
OBC (Other Backward
Classes)
51.5% 53.5% Strong participation rates
SC (Scheduled Castes) 48.5% 50.5% Steady growth
Others 47% 49% Lowest participation rates
Disparity Analysis Gap stable 5 percentage points Gap between highest and lowest remains
stable
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 7
Lowest Unemployment Rates
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 8
6/11/2025
ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 9
Comparison with Gujarat
Indicator Tamil Nadu (Urban) Tamil Nadu (Rural) Gujarat (Urban) Gujarat (Rural)
Literacy Rate Higher (above 90%) Lower (around 75-
80%)
Higher (above 85%) Lower (around 70-
75%)
Poverty Rate Lower due to better job
opportunities
Higher, but reduced
significantly
Lower due to
industrial growth
Higher, with slower
reduction
Healthcare Access Strong public and
private healthcare
Public healthcare
available but fewer
private hospitals
Private healthcare
dominant
Limited access to
quality healthcare
Employment
Opportunities
Diverse industries, IT,
manufacturing
Agriculture, small-scale
industries
Business, trade,
manufacturing
Agriculture,
handicrafts
Infrastructure Well-developed roads,
transport, electricity
Basic infrastructure,
improving
Strong urban
infrastructure
Rural infrastructure
still developing
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 10
Education outcomes TN/UP
Aspect Tamil Nadu Uttar Pradesh
Mid-Day Meals Implemented since 1925, strong
impact on outcomes
Implemented, but with reported
quality issues
Free Breakfast Chief Minister’s Scheme since
2022, expanded 2024
No statewide scheme
Free Transport Free bus passes for students, high
accessibility
No statewide scheme for school
students
Class 12 Pass Rate (2024) 94.56% (State Board), 98.48%
(CBSE 2025)
82.6%
Dropout Rate (Secondary) 0.5% 31%
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 11
Comparison with UP
Social Indicator Tamil Nadu Uttar Pradesh
Literacy Rate 81.1% 67.7%
Infant Mortality Rate (per 1,000
live births)
15 41
Poverty Rate ( Base year 2011-12) 9.2% 31.9%
Sex Ratio (Females per 1,000
males)
993 912
Public Health Infrastructure/Public
Distribution System
Strong, near universal coverage Comparatively weaker
Economic Growth Rate 9.63% per annum 6.5% per annum
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 12
Economic Theory of Dravidian
Model
Aspect Barrier-Targeted Investment Universal Basic Income (UBI)
Focus Addresses specific barriers faced by different
caste groups
Provides uniform financial support to all,
regardless of barriers
Equity High, as it targets marginalized groups with
tailored support
Moderate, may not address specific caste-
based inequalities
Administrative Complexity High, requires detailed data (e.g., caste
surveys)
Low, simpler to implement with uniform
application
Risk of Stigmatization High, may reinforce caste identities Low, no specific targeting reduces stigma
Effectiveness in India Mixed, effective in public sectors but limited in
private/informal
Potential for broad coverage, but may miss
specific needs
Examples Affirmative action, SC scholarships, Telangana
caste survey
Hypothetical UBI proposals in India
6/11/2025
ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 13
Income
Distribution
social group
wise data
Income Distribution of SC, ST,
OBC, and Other Classes in Tamil
Nadu, FY 2025-26 (Nominal
Estimates)
Note: Percentages are estimated
based on socio-economic data
and reservation impacts
(Government of Tamil Nadu,
2025, p. 38; IIPS, 2021; AISHE
2019-20).
Income
Quintile
Income
Range
(₹)
SC (%) ST (%) OBC (%)
Others
(%)
Lowest 20% Up to
100,000
30 2 65 3
Lower-Middle
20%
100,001–
180,000
25 1 70 4
Middle 20% 180,001–
250,000
20 1 75 4
Upper-Middle
20%
250,001–
350,000
15 0.5 80 4.5
Top 20% Above
350,000
10 0.5 82 7.5
6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 14
Propensity Score Matching…
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 15
•Largest Pre-Matching Imbalance: Income saw the biggest absolute reduction in
•Standardized Mean Difference (SMD) after matching.
•Key Result: PSM successfully brought all covariates below 0.1 SMD threshold (green dashed
line).
•Before Matching: Income gap (Treated: 120,000 INR Control: 90,000 INR), SMD = 0.4.
•After Matching: Gap reduced (Treated: 115,000 INR Control: 113,500 INR), SMD = 0.07.
•High p-value (0.8): Indicates no significant residual difference → Successful balance achieved.
Propensity Score Matching…
Education & Caste Balance in Matching
Education:
◦ Before matching: Treated: 11.8 years Control: 9.5 years (SMD = 0.35)
◦ After matching: Treated: 11.5 years Control: 11.4 years (SMD = 0.06, p = 0.83) → No significant
difference
Caste (SC/ST Proportion):
Before matching: Treated: 0.35 Control: 0.2 (SMD = 0.3)
After matching: Treated: 0.33 Control: 0.32 (SMD = 0.05, p = 0.87) → Excellent balance achieved
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 16
Propensity Score Matching
Linguistic & Urban Balance in Matching
Tamil Speakers:
◦ Before matching: Treated: 75% Control: 60% (SMD = 0.25)
◦ After matching: Treated: 73% Control: 72% (SMD = 0.04, p = 0.9) → Near-perfect balance
Urban Proportion:
Before matching: Treated: 50% Control: 30% (SMD = 0.32)
After matching: Treated: 48% Control: 46% (SMD = 0.08, p = 0.76) → No significant differenc
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 17
Propensity Score Matching
All five Important Dimensions have shown significant improvement across
these dimensions
1. Income
2.Education
3.Caste
4.Liguistic Diversity
5. Urban and Rural.
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 18
Covariate
Balance made
significant
improvements
across important
matrices
6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 19
Benefits across society
Aspect Observation Impact
Female Participation Significant rise in female LFPR Tamil Nadu's policies supporting
women's economic participation
Inclusive Growth Consistent improvement across all
caste groups
Economic opportunities becoming
more accessible across social
categories
Aging Workforce Engagement Steady increase in LFPR for the 60+
age group
Improving conditions for older
workers to remain economically
active
Youth Integration 15-24 age group has the lowest
participation rates among working-
age groups
Steady increase suggests improving
pathways for youth to enter the
workforce
Policy Effectiveness Tamil Nadu's comprehensive
approach to social welfare
Contributing to broader economic
participation
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 20
Hypothesis testing and Results
Hypothesis Key Variables Estimate P-value Odds
Ratio
Interpretation
H1: Subsidies boost LFPR for ST women Subsidy’s: Female 0.18 0.01* 1.20 Supports Ha: Subsidies significantly increase labor force participation for ST women
(~1% of population). ATET (0.06) indicates a 6% LFPR increase.
Subsidy: SC 0.08 0.38 1.08 Non-significant effect suggests weaker impact for SC in Q1-Q2.
Subsidy’s 0.15 0.06 1.16 Marginally significant effect for ST overall.
H2: Women's LFPR gains exceed men's post-
subsidy
Gender: Time: Subsidy 0.12 0.02* - Supports Ha: Women's LFPR (43%) gains exceed men's (59%) post-subsidy.
Gender: Subsidy 0.10 0.05* - Reinforces female advantage in subsidy response.
H3: ST gain more LFPR than other groups ST: Subsidy 0.17 0.02* 1.19 Supports Ha: ST gain more in LFPR with marginal effect of 0.04.
SC: Subsidy 0.13 0.07 1.14 Marginally significant, suggesting partial support for SC groups.
H4: 30-59 age group benefits more than 15-29 Subsidy: Age Group 0.14 0.02* - Supports Ha: 30-59 age group benefits more than 15-29 group.
First-Stage F-statistic 15.2 - - Validates instrument strength in IV regression.
H5: Women's unpaid work persists despite
subsidies
Subsidy: Gender (Unpaid) 0.20 0.01* - Supports Ha: Women's unpaid work (~2.0 hrs.) persists despite subsidies.
Subsidy: Gender (Paid) 0.15 0.25 - Non-significant effect on paid hours aligns with H0.
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 21
Addressing the Dropouts and pre-
preparation of students
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 22
Alternative Models for SC/ST Empowerment in Tamil Nadu
NEET Coaching: Tamil Nadu offers free coaching for SC/ST students, contributing to higher medical
admissions. In 2025, there are 5,250 government MBBS seats and 6,450 private MBBS seats available.
TMT Self-Help Groups: Studies show SHGs have boosted entrepreneurship among SC/ST women, improving
economic independence and income levels.
SC/ST Act Enforcement: Tamil Nadu has a dedicated SC/ST Commission to oversee legal protections,
ensuring justice access and addressing caste-based discrimination.
Ambedkar Scholarships: These scholarships support higher education and employability for SC/ST students,
including financial aid for professional courses and overseas education assistance.
Women Children Well-being
Quintile
(Income)
Subsidies
(S)
Cereal Consumption
(C)
Learning
Score (L)
AI Exposure
(A)
Toilet
Provision (T)
Menstrual
Disposal (M)
Harassment
Awareness (H)
Estimated
Well-being (W)
Q1 (Poorest) ₹5,500 ₹150 50% 0 (No) 70% 30% 50% 44
Q2 ₹4,500 ₹135 52% 0 (No) 80% 40% 60% 45
Q3 ₹3,500 ₹120 60% 1 (Yes) 85% 50% 70% 50.3
Q4 ₹2,500 ₹100 68% 1 (Yes) 90% 60% 80% 51
Q5 (Richest) ₹1,200 ₹80 75% 1 (Yes) 95% 70% 90% 52
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 23
How the KMUT Helps Different
groups
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 24
Minorities ( Muslims, Christians
and others)
Income Quintile Income Range (₹) Minorities (%) Non-Minorities (%)
Lowest 20% Up to 100,000 25 75
Lower-Middle 20% 100,001–
180,000
18 82
Middle 20% 180,001–
250,000
12 88
Upper-Middle 20% 250,001–
350,000
8 92
Top 20% Above 350,000 5 95
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 25
Econometric Methods used for
Research
Tool Primary Use Application in Tamil Nadu
Propensity Score Matching
(PSM)
Estimate causal effects by matching
treated/control
Evaluate reservation impacts on employment, matching
beneficiaries with similar non-beneficiaries
Difference-in-Differences-in-
Differences (DDD)
Compare outcomes over time,
groups, and regions
Assess policy effects across Tamil Nadu and other states,
comparing pre/post reservation trends
Instrumental Variables (IV) Address endogeneity, use exogenous
instruments
Analyze reservation self-selection, using policy access points
as instruments
Seemingly Unrelated
Regressions (SUR)
Analyze multiple correlated outcomes
simultaneously
Capture holistic effects on income, education, and health
from reservation policies
ARIMAX Model time-series with exogenous
variables
Track long-term income trends, incorporating reservation
policies and economic factors
6/11/2025
ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 26
Quintile Creation and Income
Distribution
Income Distribution in Tamil Nadu
Log-Normal Distribution: Used to model right-skewed income data.
Gini Coefficient: 0.32, indicating moderate inequality.
Quintile Breakdown:
◦ Lowest 20% → Top 20% analysed for disparity.
Key Pattern:
Urban wealth concentration (e.g., Chennai)
Lower earning potential in rural areas
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 27
Social Groups in five Quintiles
Category Population % Lowest
20%
Lower-Middle
20%
Middle
20%
Upper-Middle
20%
Top
20%
Reservation % Key Issues
Scheduled
Castes (SC)
20% 30% 25% - - 10% 18% (SC/ST
combined)
Historical discrimination, limited
access to resources
Scheduled
Tribes (ST)
1% 2% - - 0.5% 0.5% 18% (SC/ST
combined)
Marginalization, reliance on
subsistence agriculture
Other
Backward
Classes (OBC)
76% 65% - 75% 80% - 50% (30% BC, 20%
MBC)
Intra-group disparities
General
Category
3% 3% - - - 7.5% - Better access to education,
opportunities, and professional
networks
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 28
Five Quintiles and per capita
income
F. Year Total per
capita
Income
Lowest per
capita
Income
Lower-
Middle per
capita
Income
Middle per
capita
Income
Upper-
Middle per
capita
Income
Top per
capita
Income
2020-21 143,547 50,000 90,000 130,000 180,000 270,000
2021-22 154,557 55,000 95,000 140,000 195,000 290,000
2022-23 166,590 60,000 100,000 150,000 210,000 310,000
2023-24 179,732 65,000 110,000 160,000 225,000 335,000
2024-
25*
189,732 70,000 115,000 170,000 235,000 350,000
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 29
Characteristics of the Income
Groups
Income Group Description Average Per Capita Quartile
Lowest 20% Subsistence-level incomes, reliant
on subsidies and informal work
70,000 Q1
Lower-Middle 20% Basic wage earners, including
semi-skilled labourers
115,000 Q2
Middle 20% Skilled workers and small business
owners
170,000 Q3
Upper-Middle 20% Professionals and salaried
employees
235,000 Q4
Top 20% High-income professionals,
industrialists, and entrepreneurs
350,000 Q5
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 30
Changes in income for the past 4
years
Category Income FY
2020-21 (₹)
Income FY
2024-25 (₹)
Growth (%)
Top 20% 270,000 350,000 29.63
Lowest 20% 50,000 70,000 40
Income Gap 220,000 280,000 27.27
Middle & Upper-
Middle Quintiles
- - 30-31
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 31
Income Inequalities are showing a lower
trend
This is a positive sign for social cohesion and investment.
6/11/2025
ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 32
Theil’s Index
Aspect Details
Analysis Focus Income inequality in Tamil Nadu using Theil Index
Advantages of Theil Index Sensitivity to tails, Decomposability
Sensitivity to Tails Different versions highlight inequality in high-income (Theil T) or low-income (Theil L) groups
Decomposability Can separate inequality into between-group and within-group components
State Average Per Capita Income (2024-25) ₹3.58 lakh at current prices
Sample Districts Kanyakumari (₹4.5 lakh), Chennai (₹4.2 lakh), Coimbatore (₹3.6 lakh), Ariyalur (₹2.0 lakh), Perambalur (₹1.9 lakh)
Population Estimates Based on scaled 2011 Census data
Theil T Index 0.1572
Between-group Component (Theil T) 0.0201 (13% of total)
Within-group Component (Theil T) 0.1371 (87% of total)
Theil L Index 0.1592
Between-group Component (Theil L) 0.0221 (14% of total)
Within-group Component (Theil L) 0.1371 (86% of total)
Key Findings Moderate overall inequality, Within-district inequality dominates, Between-district inequality is low, Tail sensitivity insights
Policy Implications Urban inequality, Rural development, Balanced approach
Data Requirements Complete district-level per capita income data, Updated population figures, Individual or household-level income data,
Additional demographic breakdowns
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 33
Increase in LFPR across Groups
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 34
Caste Distances Index of Tamil
Nadu
Caste Brahmins Gounders Nadars Chettiars Thevars Vanniars Yadavas SC ST
Brahmins 0 3.5 3.2 3.0 4.0 4.2 4.5 4.8 4.9
Gounders 3.5 0 2.8 2.5 2.0 2.3 3.0 4.5 4.7
Nadars 3.2 2.8 0 2.2 2.5 2.7 3.2 4.3 4.6
Chettiars 3.0 2.5 2.2 0 2.3 2.5 3.0 4.2 4.5
Thevars 4.0 2.0 2.5 2.3 0 2.0 2.8 4.0 4.3
Vanniars 4.2 2.3 2.7 2.5 2.0 0 2.5 4.1 4.4
Yadavas 4.5 3.0 3.2 3.0 2.8 2.5 0 4.0 4.2
SC 4.8 4.5 4.3 4.2 4.0 4.1 4.0 0 2.0
ST 4.9 4.7 4.6 4.5 4.3 4.4 4.2 2.0 0
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 35
Cross Validation of Data
MPCE(2024)
State/Region Area MPCE (₹)
Tamil Nadu Rural 5,872
Tamil Nadu Urban 8,325
Gujarat Rural 4,190
Gujarat Urban 7,198
All India Rural 3,773
All India Urban 6,459
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 36
Debunking the "Freebies" Myth
Refuting the "Dependency Trap" Narrative
•The Myth: Welfare schemes are "freebies" that encourage laziness.
•The Reality: Research decisively proves they are not. Instead, they function as crucial enablers.
•The Evidence: There is a direct correlation between these schemes and a significant increase in
the Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR).
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 37
Breakfast and Midday meals
scheme Social Impact
Aspect Finding Source URL
Social Eating and Wellbeing Increases happiness, life satisfaction, and social
networks
University of Oxford
Trust and Cooperation Eating same food speeds up agreements, increases
trust
NPR
Evening Meals and Closeness Feels closer, especially with laughter,
reminiscences, and alcohol
PMC
Family Benefits Improves communication, reduces loneliness,
enhances support networks
Parents
Community Impact Reduces loneliness, builds social capital through
events like The Big Lunch
University of Oxford
6/11/2025
ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 38
Benefits of Eating together
Aspect Finding Source URL
Social Eating and Wellbeing Increases happiness, life satisfaction, and
social networks
University of Oxford
Trust and Cooperation Eating same food speeds up agreements,
increases trust
NPR
Evening Meals and Closeness Feels closer, especially with laughter,
reminiscences, and alcohol
PMC
Family Benefits Improves communication, reduces
loneliness, enhances support networks
Parents
Community Impact Reduces loneliness, builds social capital
through events like The Big Lunch
University of Oxford
6/11/2025
ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 39
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 40
Gender & Subsidy: Labor Force Participation
Shift
Key Insights:
Women benefited more (LFPR +0.12 after subsidy)
Baseline LFPR: Women 43%, Men 59%
Policy Effect: Women more responsive (Est. 0.10, p=0.05)
DDD Analysis Highlights:
Three-way interaction: Gender, Time, Subsidy (p=0.02)
Graph shows steeper rise for women post-subsidy
Time effect not significant (Est. 0.03, p=0.55)—change driven by subsidy
Conclusion:
Subsidy narrowed gender gap, but disparities persist
Proof of policy effectiveness, reinforcing targeted intervention
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 41
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 42
DID Analysis
School Going children are not
going for employment as they are
going to school and older adults
are going for employment.
6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 43
Helping Aged and Adolescents
Age-Based Impact of Subsidy – Education & Employment
Key DID Insights:
Lower Age Group (Students)
Before Subsidy: Limited school enrollment due to financial barriers.
After Subsidy: Increased access to education—higher enrollment rates.
Higher Age Group (Workers)
Before Subsidy: Workforce participation restricted by lack of support.
After Subsidy: Economic uplift leads to higher employment rates.
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 44
DID Model Breakdown
ge-Based Impact of Subsidy – Education & Employment
Key DID Insights:
Lower Age Group (Students)
Before Subsidy: School enrollment at 62%.
After Subsidy: Enrollment increased to 79%.
Higher Age Group (Workers)
Before Subsidy: Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR) at 55%.
After Subsidy: LFPR rose to 68%.
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 45
Do Subsidies Make the Poor Lazy?
Impact of Subsidies on Labor Force Participation (LFPR)
Income Quintiles:
LFPR rises most in Q1-Q2 (+2%), where subsidies are critical.
No reduction in work—breakfast & transport aid enable jobs.
Gender Effects:
Women’s LFPR gains (+3%) outpace men’s (+2%).
SC/ST women in Q1 lead gains (+3-4%), driven by targeted support.
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ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 46
Do Subsidies Make the Poor Lazy?
Social Groups:
SC/ST see highest LFPR boost (+2.5-2.8%)—strong empowerment.
OBC: Moderate gains (+2%) OC: Least impact (+1%).
Age Dynamics:
30-44 women gain most (+3.5%)—strong workforce integration.
15-29 age group (+2%) prioritizing education.
No age group shows LFPR decline, reinforcing policy effectiveness
6/11/2025
ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 47
Vanakkam
Kindly provide your feedback
6/11/2025
ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 48

The Economics of Dravidian Model- Equity and Social Justice

  • 1.
    The Economics ofDravidian Model: Justice and Equity for All Presentation by Dr.K.Prabhakar, Professor (Rtd) 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 1
  • 2.
    Introduction A Proven Modelof Inclusive Growth with Social Justice The Central Conclusion: The Dravidian Model has successfully balanced high economic growth with a deep commitment to social justice. A New Paradigm: Unlike models that prioritize growth at the expense of equity, Tamil Nadu demonstrates that the two can be achieved simultaneously. This presentation distils the 15 key successes of this model, as empirically validated using advanced statistical tools. 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 2
  • 3.
    Economic Growth (StateGDP) Tamil Nadu's Economic Growth (2023-24) Growth Rate: 9.69% (highest among large states), vs. India’s 6.5%. Sector Contribution to GSVA: Services: 53.63% Manufacturing: 33.37% Agriculture: 13% 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 3
  • 4.
    Different Schemes andBudgetary Allocation Program/Scheme Budget Allocation (₹ Crore) Details Kalaignar Magalir Urimai Thittam 13,807 Monthly ₹1,000 assistance to 1.15 crore women, totalling ₹12,720 crore annually. Fare-Free Bus Travel for Women 3,600 Subsidy for women, saving ₹888/month on average, fifty lakh daily users. Working Women’s Hostels 77 Ten new 'Thozhi' hostels, thirteen already functioning. Children Who Lost Both Parents - ₹2,000 monthly stipend for education until age 18, ~50,000 families. Urban Women’s Safety 50 Focus on secure spaces and infrastructure. Women Entrepreneurs Initiative 225 Skill development and loans up to ₹10 lakh with 20% subsidy. ‘Anbucholai’ Old Age Homes 10 Twenty-five centres in ten cities for senior citizens’ well-being. Moovalur Ramamirtham Ammaiyar Scheme 420 ₹1,000 monthly for 4.06 lakh girls for higher education. CM Breakfast Scheme Extension 600 Extended to three lakh additional students. Government Schools Infrastructure 1,000 Improving infrastructure in government schools. Kalaignar Kanavu Illam Housing 3,500 Construction of one lakh houses, total 8 lakh by 2030. Health and Family Welfare 21,906 Overall allocation for health services, including cervical cancer vaccination (₹40 crore). Rural Development and Panchayat Raj 29,465 Includes MGNREGS and rural infrastructure development, pending ₹3,796 crore from Centre. 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 4
  • 5.
    How social toxicitymanifests for SC/ST in India Life Stage SC/ST Female Mortality Risk Factor Magnitude vs General Population Infancy Vaccine-preventable diseases 2.3× higher Reproductive Age Pregnancy-related sepsis 1.7× higher Adulthood Chronic kidney disease (from dehydration) 3.1× higher Elderly Early-onset dementia (nutritional deficits) 2.8× higher 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 5
  • 6.
    Methodology Tamil Nadu's DravidianModel: Socio-Economic Impact Study Focus: Evaluates reservation policies on income distribution, employment, & social equity (FY 2020-21 to FY 2024-25). Data Sources: RBI, Tamil Nadu Economic Survey 2024-25, NFHS-5, World Bank reports (No primary data collection). Key Economic Metrics: GSDP: ₹27.22T (FY 2023-24) → Projected ₹31.55T (FY 2024-25) (16% growth) Per Capita Income: ₹315,220 (FY 2023-24) (1.71x national avg.) Implications: Strong investment potential & diversified economic base (agriculture, manufacturing, services). Caste-based income distribution modeling enhances policy assessment. 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 6
  • 7.
    Labor Force ParticipationRate Age Group Participation Rate 2021 Projected Participation Rate 2025 Remarks Prime Working Age (25-44) Highest 80.5% Highest participation rates observed Youth (15-24) 32.5% 34.5% Lowest participation, steady increase Older Workers (60+) Lower 30% Consistent growth, productively employed Trend Analysis Gradual increase Improvement Broad-based improvement across age groups Caste Group LFPR 2021 Projected LFPR 2025 Remarks ST (Scheduled Tribes) 52% 54% Highest LFPR OBC (Other Backward Classes) 51.5% 53.5% Strong participation rates SC (Scheduled Castes) 48.5% 50.5% Steady growth Others 47% 49% Lowest participation rates Disparity Analysis Gap stable 5 percentage points Gap between highest and lowest remains stable 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 7
  • 8.
  • 9.
  • 10.
    Comparison with Gujarat IndicatorTamil Nadu (Urban) Tamil Nadu (Rural) Gujarat (Urban) Gujarat (Rural) Literacy Rate Higher (above 90%) Lower (around 75- 80%) Higher (above 85%) Lower (around 70- 75%) Poverty Rate Lower due to better job opportunities Higher, but reduced significantly Lower due to industrial growth Higher, with slower reduction Healthcare Access Strong public and private healthcare Public healthcare available but fewer private hospitals Private healthcare dominant Limited access to quality healthcare Employment Opportunities Diverse industries, IT, manufacturing Agriculture, small-scale industries Business, trade, manufacturing Agriculture, handicrafts Infrastructure Well-developed roads, transport, electricity Basic infrastructure, improving Strong urban infrastructure Rural infrastructure still developing 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 10
  • 11.
    Education outcomes TN/UP AspectTamil Nadu Uttar Pradesh Mid-Day Meals Implemented since 1925, strong impact on outcomes Implemented, but with reported quality issues Free Breakfast Chief Minister’s Scheme since 2022, expanded 2024 No statewide scheme Free Transport Free bus passes for students, high accessibility No statewide scheme for school students Class 12 Pass Rate (2024) 94.56% (State Board), 98.48% (CBSE 2025) 82.6% Dropout Rate (Secondary) 0.5% 31% 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 11
  • 12.
    Comparison with UP SocialIndicator Tamil Nadu Uttar Pradesh Literacy Rate 81.1% 67.7% Infant Mortality Rate (per 1,000 live births) 15 41 Poverty Rate ( Base year 2011-12) 9.2% 31.9% Sex Ratio (Females per 1,000 males) 993 912 Public Health Infrastructure/Public Distribution System Strong, near universal coverage Comparatively weaker Economic Growth Rate 9.63% per annum 6.5% per annum 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 12
  • 13.
    Economic Theory ofDravidian Model Aspect Barrier-Targeted Investment Universal Basic Income (UBI) Focus Addresses specific barriers faced by different caste groups Provides uniform financial support to all, regardless of barriers Equity High, as it targets marginalized groups with tailored support Moderate, may not address specific caste- based inequalities Administrative Complexity High, requires detailed data (e.g., caste surveys) Low, simpler to implement with uniform application Risk of Stigmatization High, may reinforce caste identities Low, no specific targeting reduces stigma Effectiveness in India Mixed, effective in public sectors but limited in private/informal Potential for broad coverage, but may miss specific needs Examples Affirmative action, SC scholarships, Telangana caste survey Hypothetical UBI proposals in India 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 13
  • 14.
    Income Distribution social group wise data IncomeDistribution of SC, ST, OBC, and Other Classes in Tamil Nadu, FY 2025-26 (Nominal Estimates) Note: Percentages are estimated based on socio-economic data and reservation impacts (Government of Tamil Nadu, 2025, p. 38; IIPS, 2021; AISHE 2019-20). Income Quintile Income Range (₹) SC (%) ST (%) OBC (%) Others (%) Lowest 20% Up to 100,000 30 2 65 3 Lower-Middle 20% 100,001– 180,000 25 1 70 4 Middle 20% 180,001– 250,000 20 1 75 4 Upper-Middle 20% 250,001– 350,000 15 0.5 80 4.5 Top 20% Above 350,000 10 0.5 82 7.5 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 14
  • 15.
    Propensity Score Matching… 6/11/2025 ECONOMICSOF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 15 •Largest Pre-Matching Imbalance: Income saw the biggest absolute reduction in •Standardized Mean Difference (SMD) after matching. •Key Result: PSM successfully brought all covariates below 0.1 SMD threshold (green dashed line). •Before Matching: Income gap (Treated: 120,000 INR Control: 90,000 INR), SMD = 0.4. •After Matching: Gap reduced (Treated: 115,000 INR Control: 113,500 INR), SMD = 0.07. •High p-value (0.8): Indicates no significant residual difference → Successful balance achieved.
  • 16.
    Propensity Score Matching… Education& Caste Balance in Matching Education: ◦ Before matching: Treated: 11.8 years Control: 9.5 years (SMD = 0.35) ◦ After matching: Treated: 11.5 years Control: 11.4 years (SMD = 0.06, p = 0.83) → No significant difference Caste (SC/ST Proportion): Before matching: Treated: 0.35 Control: 0.2 (SMD = 0.3) After matching: Treated: 0.33 Control: 0.32 (SMD = 0.05, p = 0.87) → Excellent balance achieved 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 16
  • 17.
    Propensity Score Matching Linguistic& Urban Balance in Matching Tamil Speakers: ◦ Before matching: Treated: 75% Control: 60% (SMD = 0.25) ◦ After matching: Treated: 73% Control: 72% (SMD = 0.04, p = 0.9) → Near-perfect balance Urban Proportion: Before matching: Treated: 50% Control: 30% (SMD = 0.32) After matching: Treated: 48% Control: 46% (SMD = 0.08, p = 0.76) → No significant differenc 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 17
  • 18.
    Propensity Score Matching Allfive Important Dimensions have shown significant improvement across these dimensions 1. Income 2.Education 3.Caste 4.Liguistic Diversity 5. Urban and Rural. 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 18
  • 19.
  • 20.
    Benefits across society AspectObservation Impact Female Participation Significant rise in female LFPR Tamil Nadu's policies supporting women's economic participation Inclusive Growth Consistent improvement across all caste groups Economic opportunities becoming more accessible across social categories Aging Workforce Engagement Steady increase in LFPR for the 60+ age group Improving conditions for older workers to remain economically active Youth Integration 15-24 age group has the lowest participation rates among working- age groups Steady increase suggests improving pathways for youth to enter the workforce Policy Effectiveness Tamil Nadu's comprehensive approach to social welfare Contributing to broader economic participation 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 20
  • 21.
    Hypothesis testing andResults Hypothesis Key Variables Estimate P-value Odds Ratio Interpretation H1: Subsidies boost LFPR for ST women Subsidy’s: Female 0.18 0.01* 1.20 Supports Ha: Subsidies significantly increase labor force participation for ST women (~1% of population). ATET (0.06) indicates a 6% LFPR increase. Subsidy: SC 0.08 0.38 1.08 Non-significant effect suggests weaker impact for SC in Q1-Q2. Subsidy’s 0.15 0.06 1.16 Marginally significant effect for ST overall. H2: Women's LFPR gains exceed men's post- subsidy Gender: Time: Subsidy 0.12 0.02* - Supports Ha: Women's LFPR (43%) gains exceed men's (59%) post-subsidy. Gender: Subsidy 0.10 0.05* - Reinforces female advantage in subsidy response. H3: ST gain more LFPR than other groups ST: Subsidy 0.17 0.02* 1.19 Supports Ha: ST gain more in LFPR with marginal effect of 0.04. SC: Subsidy 0.13 0.07 1.14 Marginally significant, suggesting partial support for SC groups. H4: 30-59 age group benefits more than 15-29 Subsidy: Age Group 0.14 0.02* - Supports Ha: 30-59 age group benefits more than 15-29 group. First-Stage F-statistic 15.2 - - Validates instrument strength in IV regression. H5: Women's unpaid work persists despite subsidies Subsidy: Gender (Unpaid) 0.20 0.01* - Supports Ha: Women's unpaid work (~2.0 hrs.) persists despite subsidies. Subsidy: Gender (Paid) 0.15 0.25 - Non-significant effect on paid hours aligns with H0. 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 21
  • 22.
    Addressing the Dropoutsand pre- preparation of students 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 22 Alternative Models for SC/ST Empowerment in Tamil Nadu NEET Coaching: Tamil Nadu offers free coaching for SC/ST students, contributing to higher medical admissions. In 2025, there are 5,250 government MBBS seats and 6,450 private MBBS seats available. TMT Self-Help Groups: Studies show SHGs have boosted entrepreneurship among SC/ST women, improving economic independence and income levels. SC/ST Act Enforcement: Tamil Nadu has a dedicated SC/ST Commission to oversee legal protections, ensuring justice access and addressing caste-based discrimination. Ambedkar Scholarships: These scholarships support higher education and employability for SC/ST students, including financial aid for professional courses and overseas education assistance.
  • 23.
    Women Children Well-being Quintile (Income) Subsidies (S) CerealConsumption (C) Learning Score (L) AI Exposure (A) Toilet Provision (T) Menstrual Disposal (M) Harassment Awareness (H) Estimated Well-being (W) Q1 (Poorest) ₹5,500 ₹150 50% 0 (No) 70% 30% 50% 44 Q2 ₹4,500 ₹135 52% 0 (No) 80% 40% 60% 45 Q3 ₹3,500 ₹120 60% 1 (Yes) 85% 50% 70% 50.3 Q4 ₹2,500 ₹100 68% 1 (Yes) 90% 60% 80% 51 Q5 (Richest) ₹1,200 ₹80 75% 1 (Yes) 95% 70% 90% 52 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 23
  • 24.
    How the KMUTHelps Different groups 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 24
  • 25.
    Minorities ( Muslims,Christians and others) Income Quintile Income Range (₹) Minorities (%) Non-Minorities (%) Lowest 20% Up to 100,000 25 75 Lower-Middle 20% 100,001– 180,000 18 82 Middle 20% 180,001– 250,000 12 88 Upper-Middle 20% 250,001– 350,000 8 92 Top 20% Above 350,000 5 95 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 25
  • 26.
    Econometric Methods usedfor Research Tool Primary Use Application in Tamil Nadu Propensity Score Matching (PSM) Estimate causal effects by matching treated/control Evaluate reservation impacts on employment, matching beneficiaries with similar non-beneficiaries Difference-in-Differences-in- Differences (DDD) Compare outcomes over time, groups, and regions Assess policy effects across Tamil Nadu and other states, comparing pre/post reservation trends Instrumental Variables (IV) Address endogeneity, use exogenous instruments Analyze reservation self-selection, using policy access points as instruments Seemingly Unrelated Regressions (SUR) Analyze multiple correlated outcomes simultaneously Capture holistic effects on income, education, and health from reservation policies ARIMAX Model time-series with exogenous variables Track long-term income trends, incorporating reservation policies and economic factors 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 26
  • 27.
    Quintile Creation andIncome Distribution Income Distribution in Tamil Nadu Log-Normal Distribution: Used to model right-skewed income data. Gini Coefficient: 0.32, indicating moderate inequality. Quintile Breakdown: ◦ Lowest 20% → Top 20% analysed for disparity. Key Pattern: Urban wealth concentration (e.g., Chennai) Lower earning potential in rural areas 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 27
  • 28.
    Social Groups infive Quintiles Category Population % Lowest 20% Lower-Middle 20% Middle 20% Upper-Middle 20% Top 20% Reservation % Key Issues Scheduled Castes (SC) 20% 30% 25% - - 10% 18% (SC/ST combined) Historical discrimination, limited access to resources Scheduled Tribes (ST) 1% 2% - - 0.5% 0.5% 18% (SC/ST combined) Marginalization, reliance on subsistence agriculture Other Backward Classes (OBC) 76% 65% - 75% 80% - 50% (30% BC, 20% MBC) Intra-group disparities General Category 3% 3% - - - 7.5% - Better access to education, opportunities, and professional networks 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 28
  • 29.
    Five Quintiles andper capita income F. Year Total per capita Income Lowest per capita Income Lower- Middle per capita Income Middle per capita Income Upper- Middle per capita Income Top per capita Income 2020-21 143,547 50,000 90,000 130,000 180,000 270,000 2021-22 154,557 55,000 95,000 140,000 195,000 290,000 2022-23 166,590 60,000 100,000 150,000 210,000 310,000 2023-24 179,732 65,000 110,000 160,000 225,000 335,000 2024- 25* 189,732 70,000 115,000 170,000 235,000 350,000 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 29
  • 30.
    Characteristics of theIncome Groups Income Group Description Average Per Capita Quartile Lowest 20% Subsistence-level incomes, reliant on subsidies and informal work 70,000 Q1 Lower-Middle 20% Basic wage earners, including semi-skilled labourers 115,000 Q2 Middle 20% Skilled workers and small business owners 170,000 Q3 Upper-Middle 20% Professionals and salaried employees 235,000 Q4 Top 20% High-income professionals, industrialists, and entrepreneurs 350,000 Q5 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 30
  • 31.
    Changes in incomefor the past 4 years Category Income FY 2020-21 (₹) Income FY 2024-25 (₹) Growth (%) Top 20% 270,000 350,000 29.63 Lowest 20% 50,000 70,000 40 Income Gap 220,000 280,000 27.27 Middle & Upper- Middle Quintiles - - 30-31 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 31
  • 32.
    Income Inequalities areshowing a lower trend This is a positive sign for social cohesion and investment. 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 32
  • 33.
    Theil’s Index Aspect Details AnalysisFocus Income inequality in Tamil Nadu using Theil Index Advantages of Theil Index Sensitivity to tails, Decomposability Sensitivity to Tails Different versions highlight inequality in high-income (Theil T) or low-income (Theil L) groups Decomposability Can separate inequality into between-group and within-group components State Average Per Capita Income (2024-25) ₹3.58 lakh at current prices Sample Districts Kanyakumari (₹4.5 lakh), Chennai (₹4.2 lakh), Coimbatore (₹3.6 lakh), Ariyalur (₹2.0 lakh), Perambalur (₹1.9 lakh) Population Estimates Based on scaled 2011 Census data Theil T Index 0.1572 Between-group Component (Theil T) 0.0201 (13% of total) Within-group Component (Theil T) 0.1371 (87% of total) Theil L Index 0.1592 Between-group Component (Theil L) 0.0221 (14% of total) Within-group Component (Theil L) 0.1371 (86% of total) Key Findings Moderate overall inequality, Within-district inequality dominates, Between-district inequality is low, Tail sensitivity insights Policy Implications Urban inequality, Rural development, Balanced approach Data Requirements Complete district-level per capita income data, Updated population figures, Individual or household-level income data, Additional demographic breakdowns 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 33
  • 34.
    Increase in LFPRacross Groups 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 34
  • 35.
    Caste Distances Indexof Tamil Nadu Caste Brahmins Gounders Nadars Chettiars Thevars Vanniars Yadavas SC ST Brahmins 0 3.5 3.2 3.0 4.0 4.2 4.5 4.8 4.9 Gounders 3.5 0 2.8 2.5 2.0 2.3 3.0 4.5 4.7 Nadars 3.2 2.8 0 2.2 2.5 2.7 3.2 4.3 4.6 Chettiars 3.0 2.5 2.2 0 2.3 2.5 3.0 4.2 4.5 Thevars 4.0 2.0 2.5 2.3 0 2.0 2.8 4.0 4.3 Vanniars 4.2 2.3 2.7 2.5 2.0 0 2.5 4.1 4.4 Yadavas 4.5 3.0 3.2 3.0 2.8 2.5 0 4.0 4.2 SC 4.8 4.5 4.3 4.2 4.0 4.1 4.0 0 2.0 ST 4.9 4.7 4.6 4.5 4.3 4.4 4.2 2.0 0 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 35
  • 36.
    Cross Validation ofData MPCE(2024) State/Region Area MPCE (₹) Tamil Nadu Rural 5,872 Tamil Nadu Urban 8,325 Gujarat Rural 4,190 Gujarat Urban 7,198 All India Rural 3,773 All India Urban 6,459 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 36
  • 37.
    Debunking the "Freebies"Myth Refuting the "Dependency Trap" Narrative •The Myth: Welfare schemes are "freebies" that encourage laziness. •The Reality: Research decisively proves they are not. Instead, they function as crucial enablers. •The Evidence: There is a direct correlation between these schemes and a significant increase in the Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR). 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 37
  • 38.
    Breakfast and Middaymeals scheme Social Impact Aspect Finding Source URL Social Eating and Wellbeing Increases happiness, life satisfaction, and social networks University of Oxford Trust and Cooperation Eating same food speeds up agreements, increases trust NPR Evening Meals and Closeness Feels closer, especially with laughter, reminiscences, and alcohol PMC Family Benefits Improves communication, reduces loneliness, enhances support networks Parents Community Impact Reduces loneliness, builds social capital through events like The Big Lunch University of Oxford 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 38
  • 39.
    Benefits of Eatingtogether Aspect Finding Source URL Social Eating and Wellbeing Increases happiness, life satisfaction, and social networks University of Oxford Trust and Cooperation Eating same food speeds up agreements, increases trust NPR Evening Meals and Closeness Feels closer, especially with laughter, reminiscences, and alcohol PMC Family Benefits Improves communication, reduces loneliness, enhances support networks Parents Community Impact Reduces loneliness, builds social capital through events like The Big Lunch University of Oxford 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 39
  • 40.
  • 41.
    Gender & Subsidy:Labor Force Participation Shift Key Insights: Women benefited more (LFPR +0.12 after subsidy) Baseline LFPR: Women 43%, Men 59% Policy Effect: Women more responsive (Est. 0.10, p=0.05) DDD Analysis Highlights: Three-way interaction: Gender, Time, Subsidy (p=0.02) Graph shows steeper rise for women post-subsidy Time effect not significant (Est. 0.03, p=0.55)—change driven by subsidy Conclusion: Subsidy narrowed gender gap, but disparities persist Proof of policy effectiveness, reinforcing targeted intervention 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 41
  • 42.
  • 43.
    DID Analysis School Goingchildren are not going for employment as they are going to school and older adults are going for employment. 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 43
  • 44.
    Helping Aged andAdolescents Age-Based Impact of Subsidy – Education & Employment Key DID Insights: Lower Age Group (Students) Before Subsidy: Limited school enrollment due to financial barriers. After Subsidy: Increased access to education—higher enrollment rates. Higher Age Group (Workers) Before Subsidy: Workforce participation restricted by lack of support. After Subsidy: Economic uplift leads to higher employment rates. 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 44
  • 45.
    DID Model Breakdown ge-BasedImpact of Subsidy – Education & Employment Key DID Insights: Lower Age Group (Students) Before Subsidy: School enrollment at 62%. After Subsidy: Enrollment increased to 79%. Higher Age Group (Workers) Before Subsidy: Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR) at 55%. After Subsidy: LFPR rose to 68%. 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 45
  • 46.
    Do Subsidies Makethe Poor Lazy? Impact of Subsidies on Labor Force Participation (LFPR) Income Quintiles: LFPR rises most in Q1-Q2 (+2%), where subsidies are critical. No reduction in work—breakfast & transport aid enable jobs. Gender Effects: Women’s LFPR gains (+3%) outpace men’s (+2%). SC/ST women in Q1 lead gains (+3-4%), driven by targeted support. 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 46
  • 47.
    Do Subsidies Makethe Poor Lazy? Social Groups: SC/ST see highest LFPR boost (+2.5-2.8%)—strong empowerment. OBC: Moderate gains (+2%) OC: Least impact (+1%). Age Dynamics: 30-44 women gain most (+3.5%)—strong workforce integration. 15-29 age group (+2%) prioritizing education. No age group shows LFPR decline, reinforcing policy effectiveness 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 47
  • 48.
    Vanakkam Kindly provide yourfeedback 6/11/2025 ECONOMICS OF DRAVIDIAN MODEL 48