We, the KN Raj Economics Club, represent a vibrant and ambitious initiative based in Kerala, aimed at revolutionising the academic landscape of economics. Named in honour of the esteemed Malayali economist, Prof. K.N. Raj, we were brought into existence in 2021 by rethinker, Vinayakan. He was driven by the realization that Kerala's unique economic narrative deserved a platform for representation and reevaluation. This vision quickly resonated with us, leading to collaboration with Shobha, Abhirami, and numerous other leaders passionate about redefining economic discourse. Together, we aligned with the global "Rethinking Economics" movement, further solidifying our mission to foster a pluralistic and rational approach to economics.

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We are dedicated to creating a community among the young Malayali economics diaspora, advocating for a more humane, inclusive, and diverse understanding of economics. Our initiative stands out by providing an alternative educational experience that diverges from traditional academic settings, thereby making the study of economics not only insightful but also enjoyable. Our activities are designed to accommodate heterodox schools of thought, creating a welcoming space for discussions that challenge conventional wisdom and advocate for academic freedom and inclusivity.

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A testament to our commitment to pluralism was the KN Raj Econ Festival 2022, which attracted around 250 participants from across the globe. The festival showcased a spectrum of economic thought through talks and workshops that covered topics from a post-Keynesian critique, Marxist political economy, to the history of Indian political economy and the reevaluation of economics curricula. These endeavors underscore our dedication to fostering a critical and open-minded academic environment.

Moreover, we are vocally against caste discrimination and all forms of prejudice, actively supporting LGBTQAI+ inclusivity within economics departments. This stance was notably evident in our support for Dr. Vipin P. Veetil amidst his battle against caste-based discrimination at IIT Madras, and our backing of academic freedom alongside Prof. Pulapre Balakrishnan. Such actions reflect our ethos of fostering an academic and social environment that respects and celebrates diversity.

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We draw inspiration not only from our namesake, Prof. K.N. Raj, but also from Kerala's rich heritage. Kerala, often referred to as God’s own country, is celebrated for its natural beauty, cultural diversity, high literacy rate, life expectancy, human development index, and its vibrant festivals. Our engagement with economics is thus deeply interwoven with the Malayali identity, as we operate in a language and culture that boasts a rich literary and cultural heritage.

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By inviting individuals to join our journey, we offer a unique space for young economics students and enthusiasts to explore economic theories and practices from a fresh, Malayali perspective. Our initiative not only enriches the academic field but also serves as a beacon for those seeking to engage with economics in a way that is both intellectually stimulating and grounded in the realities of Kerala's socio-economic context. Our activities and ethos symbolize a bold step towards rethinking and reshaping the landscape of economic education and discourse in Kerala, making it a pivotal movement for current and future generations.

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"ഇവിടെ സാമ്പത്തിക ശാസ്ത്രം ചർച്ച ചെയ്യപ്പെടും!"