Modi in Kerala: PM welcomes Keralam name change, describes Dheevara community as children of the sea
Addressing the golden jubilee celebrations of the All Kerala Dheevara Sabha in Kochi on Wednesday, he said that the new name truly reflects Malayali culture and identity.
PM began his speech in Malayalam and greeted the fishermen community by calling them "children of the sea." Recalling the selfless service of the Dheevara community during the Kerala floods, PM Modi said that the entire world has witnessed their courage and it can never be forgotten.
He said, "The fishing community sees the sea and rivers not just as resources but as their mother." Modi said that he had come here not to bless them, but to seek their blessings. He also mentioned the contributions of social reformer Pandit Karappan and Mata Amritanandamayi, whom he described as great examples of selfless service.
Emphasizing the economic empowerment of the fishing community, the Prime Minister said that the Central Government has created a separate Ministry for Fisheries. He said that Rs 1,400 crore has been allocated for Kerala alone under the 'Fish Processing Project'.
The Prime Minister also encouraged the youth to take leadership in the 'Blue Economy' and increase fish exports.
Participated in a grand road show in Kaloor
Following the ceremony, the Prime Minister participated in a grand road show in Kaloor, where a large crowd gathered to welcome him. He reiterated his commitment to transform Kerala through national highway projects and other infrastructure works. PM Modi said that the government is taking every possible step to ensure the safety of fishermen going to sea.
PM launches multiple development projects
Earlier, PM Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects worth around Rs 10,800 crore in Ernakulam, marking a major push for infrastructure, energy, and industrial growth in Kerala.
Speaking after inaugurating the projects, the Prime Minister said the initiatives, together valued at nearly Rs 11,000 crore, were being offered “with humility” to the people of Kerala and would help accelerate economic growth and employment.