‘May every family in Kerala prosper and help economy soar to new heights’: PM Modi in Kochi |WATCH

Kochi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday described the renaming of the state from Kerala to Keralam by the Union government as a joyful moment for Malayali brothers and sisters.

He was speaking at the golden jubilee celebrations of the Akila Kerala Dheevara Sabha, an organisation that has worked for the welfare and rights of the fishing community in Kerala for the past 50 years.

In his inaugural address, the Prime Minister lauded the fishermen for their courage, service, and dedication during the 2018 Kerala floods, saying their efforts had been witnessed across the country. He also noted their participation in national movements, including the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, as evidence of their enduring commitment.

“It’s a celebration for my Malayali brothers and sisters. It was your wish to change Kerala to Keralam, and the BJP‑led NDA government has made it a reality. This beautiful place now has the right name. I congratulate everyone for their efforts,” Modi said.

The Prime Minister highlighted several initiatives by the Union government to support the fishermen community. “Safety for fishermen going to sea and returning was a major concern in the past. Now, safety has improved significantly with around 7,000 transponders installed on Kerala’s fishing boats, allowing real-time tracking through technology,” he said.

Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, around ₹1,400 crore has been allocated to Kerala to improve infrastructure, financial support, and mainstream the fishing community. “The youth are to lead the fishermen community in the Blue Economy, strengthening Matsya Farmer Producer Organisations. Fish exports are expected to rise, and the government has provided guaranteed loans to boost the sector further,” Modi added.

The National Fisheries Digital Platform was also highlighted as a step towards modernisation. “Through this platform, all members of the fishermen community—including fishermen, exporters, and boat owners—are connected in a single chain and can access a range of services. I urge all of you to make full use of it,” he said.

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The Prime Minister spoke about modern coastal infrastructure under the Matsya Sampada Yojana, “Nine integrated and modernised coastal fishing villages are being developed. These initiatives aim to improve the life and livelihood of the community, combining modern infrastructure, technology, and financial support for sustainable development.”

Highlighting harbour modernisation, Modi said, “The NDA government is also innovating harbours. Around ₹177 crore has been allocated for the renovation of Muthalapozhi Harbour in Kerala, while dredging work is ongoing at six other harbours. Additionally, 16 ice plants and cold storage facilities have been approved to support the fishing community.”

Concluding his address, he emphasised broader prosperity, stating, “May every family in Kerala prosper and help the economy soar to new heights. Our goal is a strong and resilient India along with a flourishing Keralam.”

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Modi arrived at Kochi International Airport around 11.30 am and travelled by helicopter to the naval base before reaching Marine Drive for the Dheevara Sabha golden jubilee—the first event of his day in poll-bound Kerala, where he will participate in a series of programmes, including the BJP-led NDA’s election convention.

Inputs from Agencies