PM Modi Inaugurates Projects Worth ₹10,800 Crore in Kochi, Kerala

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday visited Ernakulam and Kochi in Kerala to inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for multiple development projects valued at approximately ₹10,800 crore. During his visit, the Prime Minister addressed the Golden Jubilee conference of the Akhil Kerala Dheevara Sabha, where he lauded the contributions of the fishermen community to the nation's economy and social fabric. The visit underscored the central government's focus on infrastructure development and social welfare in the southern state.

Concerns Over Middle East Crisis and Global Stability

Addressing the gathering in Kochi, Prime Minister Modi expressed deep concern regarding the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. He noted that the situation in the Gulf region is a matter of natural concern for the people of Kerala, as millions of Indians are employed there. The Prime Minister assured that the BJP-led NDA government is making every effort to ensure the safety of Indian citizens abroad. He emphasized that modern India doesn't abandon its citizens during crises and is working toward self-reliance in all sectors while maintaining close coordination with friendly nations to safeguard the interests of the diaspora.

Criticism of Political Opponents and Regional Coalitions

The Prime Minister launched a sharp political attack on the Congress party and the regional coalitions, LDF and UDF. He accused the Congress of politicizing grave global crises and making provocative statements that could worsen situations. Referring to the LDF and UDF, the Prime Minister stated that while their names differ, their actions remain identical. He alleged that both groups are partners in corruption and crime, and have consistently acted as obstacles to the state's development. He further remarked that the opposition's primary focus has shifted toward personal attacks rather than constructive governance.

Empowerment of the Fishermen Community and Blue Economy

Highlighting the significance of the fishermen community, Prime Minister Modi described them as a major pillar of the national economy. He recalled the 1999 floods, praising the community for their bravery in risking their lives and boats to save thousands of families. The Prime Minister stated that for decades, this community had been neglected, but the current administration is recognizing its potential through the promotion of the Blue Economy. Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, approximately ₹1,400 crore has been allocated to Kerala to modernize the fisheries sector and enhance the livelihoods of those dependent on it.

Approval for Renaming the State to 'Keralam'

In a significant announcement, Prime Minister Modi confirmed that the central government has approved the proposal to rename the state as 'Keralam'. He noted that this had been a long-standing demand of the Malayali people and expressed satisfaction in fulfilling this cultural aspiration. Speaking at the 50th anniversary of the Akhil Kerala Dheevara Sabha, he commended the organization for its five decades of service in protecting the rights of the fishermen community and promoting social harmony and national consciousness.

Major Infrastructure and Industrial Projects Unveiled

The development package of ₹10,800 crore includes several transformative projects for Kerala's industrial and transport sectors. The Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for a new unit at the Kochi Refinery, which will produce raw materials for plastics and medical equipment, thereby reducing import dependency. On top of that, he inaugurated new road stretches under the Mumbai-Kanyakumari corridor and the Kozhikode bypass. Other projects launched include rural road networks, modernized railway stations, and a large-scale floating solar power plant in Kollam, aimed at boosting the state's renewable energy capacity.