Voice of Science in the Noise of Society: Kerala Model - A Reflective Critique

The state of Kerala had undergone a societal transformation for half a
century initiated catalyzed and sustained by conscious intervention of
science. Beginning with the pure program of scientific literacy in the
sixties, it evolved into arguably best in class impactful societal
transformation. In the romantic phase, it created scientific literacy
with exclusive children’s science magazines peaking 100,000 in circulation
and a generation of creative science literateurs with a majestic mentor
authoring over 180 children’s science books. Extrapolating this endeavor,
total literacy status was secured for the state. A series of impactful
interventions was made by dedicated groups of science communicators and
activaists.

Second phase of weaponization or arming people with scientific methodology
and knowledge to eliminate exploitation under the slogan ‘science for
social revolution’ was implemented. It was transformed into a mass
movement with leaders drawn from teachers and workers. Health Education
and quality products came within its ambit. The protection of Silent
Valley was a creditable achievement. Sustainable development brought
conflicts of interest within the cadre. Environmentalism and economic
development were oxymoronically hot topics. This led to politicalization
of the movement. Science was subservient to political paradigms and
political vocabulary and grammar became the language of science. Today
islands of excellence in creative science literature are flourishing with
the development paradigm embroiled in quagmire.

This presentation will highlight the protohistory of this movement with a
pioneering early group from TIFR and BARC, its migration to and growth in
Kerala, promises realized and the perils of politicalization.