Demographics & Cultural Identity
As of 2021, Nenmara had approximately 192,592 electors—slightly up from 190,765 in
2016 ([turn0search12]turn0search0]). In 2016, voter turnout reached 80.87%,
demonstrating highly engaged civic participation ([turn0search0]). The religious
composition (2011 Census) includes roughly 55% Hindus, 27% Muslims, and 18%
Christians—a diverse mix typical of Palakkad
locales ([turn0search0]turn0search12]).
Geographically, the toll booth-covered terrain stretches from plains to forest
fringes—encompassing fertile farms and scenic Nelliyampathi hills. The famed
NenmaraVallanghy Vela, one of Kerala’s brightest temple festivals, lights up paddy
fields every April with fireworks, processions, elephants, and cultural rivalry
across villages ([turn0search13]).
Economic Livelihood Patterns
Local incomes are shaped by:
Agriculture & Plantation Farming: Residents cultivate paddy, coconut, banana,
spices, and hill crops in villages like Puthunagaram, Elavanchery, and
Kollengode.
Remittances (NRIs) are a notable income buffer for many households, especially
in Koduvayur and Pallassana, helping sustain middleincome lifestyles.
Smallscale trade & crafts: Kollengode is historically known for woodcraft and
toddy tapping; local markets serve nearby towns. Tourism around Nelliampathi
has also stirred hospitality jobs.
Public services & education: Panchayat offices, rural health centres, schools, and
cooperative banks provide formal work—though the constituency has no blue
economy, being inland.
Economic Strata
The vast majority of Nenmara’s population falls into the middle-income bracket,
supported by farming returns and remittances. A smaller group—landowners, traders,
artisans, and diasporabacked families—comprises the higher-income tier. Some
marginal farmers and daily wage laborers—particularly in remote hillside
hamlets—reside below the poverty line, though high literacy (~88–90%) and welfare
schemes help prevent deep deprivation.
Recent Development Initiatives
Polling infrastructure upgrade: The count rose to 171 polling booths in 2021,
significantly easing access across dispersed
wards ([turn0search0]turn0search10]).
Festivaltourism support: Following safety concerns at NenmaraVela,
crowdmanagement and basic infrastructure near the festival field were
improved under local govt directives ([turn0reddit16]).
Rural connectivity upgrades: Roadworks connecting Nenmara town to Puthunagaram,
Kollengode, and Seetharkundu viewpoints have enhanced access to markets and
tourist trails.
Agricultural extension programs: Cooperative farming initiatives and spice crop
support schemes are being promoted under LSGD programs in Koduvayur,
Kollengode, and Pallassana panchayats.
Nenmara Assembly Constituency offers a landscape of paddy plains, hill slopes, and
cultural vibrancy. Anchored by agriculture, festival tourism, and migrant
remittances, with a predominantly middleincome population, it is steadily
progressing. With upgraded polling access, road and tourism infrastructure, and
livelihood schemes reaching deeper wards, Nenmara is embracing inclusive rural
development rooted in its vibrant identity.
