Rewind: Unveiling China's poverty alleviation miracle - Sudheendra Kulkarni's exclusive insights

BEIJING - In an interview with Guangming Online on Dec. 4, 2023, Indian socio-political activist Sudeheendra Kulkarni shared insights into China's innovative methods for eradicating extreme poverty. Kulkarni has recently wrapped up a field trip to explore poverty alleviation efforts in rural China, accompanied by members of the International Poverty Reduction Center of China. Without witnessing a single village steeped in poverty, Kulkarni praised China's poverty alleviation policy, calling it a "miraculous" achievement.

Kulkarni highlighted China's innovative strategies, exemplifying the success of rural tourism and industrialization. He pointed out the transformative impact of rural tourism, where infrastructure development and community participation have revitalized villages. Moreover, he lauded China's rural industrialization, emphasizing the integration of agriculture and industry. Besides, the innovative paring strategy of pairing prosperous areas with less developed regions was also acknowledged for its positive outcomes.

Kulkarni commended China's commitment to modern agricultural practices, using the growth of avocado cultivation in one village he visited in Sichuan Province as a testament to the country's dedication to scientific advancements and efficient marketing strategies.

Regarding future collaboration, Kulkarni highlighted opportunities in media engagement, research institution collaboration, and joint efforts in promoting green development. The interview concluded with a call to preserve the rural character during modernization.

As Kulkarni aptly puts it, "China, by lifting nearly 800 million poor people out of poverty in the last 10 years, has done great service to humanity."