Addressing the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the Akhila Kerala Dheevara Sabha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the occasion marked a historic milestone as the organisation completed 50 years of service to the fishermen community. Congratulating the members and fishermen across Keralam, the PM iterated, “For five decades, this organisation has worked continuously to protect the rights of fishermen. This journey reflects your hard work, dedication and spirit of service.”
Recalling his recent visit to the state, PM Modi said he was pleased to once again interact with members of the community. He noted that the long-standing aspiration of the people had been fulfilled with the approval to rename the state as ‘Keralam’. He said that the decision had brought immense joy to Malayali brothers and sisters, adding that the beautiful state had now received a name that reflects its cultural identity.
Highlighting the values of the fishermen community, PM Modi described it as a symbol of sustainable living. He observed that the community has long demonstrated a balance between livelihood and nature, progress and environment.
He asserted, “While much of the world views water bodies and oceans merely as resources, the Dheevara community reveres the sea as ‘Amma’, reflecting the deep-rooted Indian philosophy of respecting nature as a divine consciousness.”
Speaking about the spirit of nationalism within the community, PM Modi said the Akhila Kerala Dheevara Sabha has consistently stood for national causes. He observed that members of the fishermen community have served as the first line of guardians along India’s maritime borders and have actively contributed to social harmony and national movements over the years.
Recalling the devastating floods in the state, the PM praised the courage and service of fishermen who played a crucial role in rescue operations. He said the entire country witnessed how members of the community risked their own boats and lives to save stranded families and deliver essential supplies.
The Prime Minister said the hardworking fishermen community has the capability to power India’s growth through the Blue Economy.
Detailing the government’s initiatives, PM Modi said, “The fisheries sector now has dedicated institutional support. Our government created a separate ministry for fisheries and launched several schemes to bring fishermen into the mainstream of development.” He added, “The National Fisheries Digital Platform is transforming the fisheries ecosystem. It allows fishermen, boat owners and exporters to register on a single platform and access government schemes more easily.”
PM Modi noted that satellite-based transponders have been installed on thousands of boats, allowing better tracking and weather alerts, which has significantly enhanced safety for fishermen and reassurance for their families.
Speaking about modernisation efforts, the PM said, “Fishing harbours in the state are being upgraded and dredged to improve efficiency and safety. In recent years, multiple ice plants and cold storage facilities have also been approved to strengthen the fisheries value chain.”
Looking ahead to new economic opportunities, PM Modi stated, “The ocean economy goes beyond traditional fishing. Emerging sectors like seaweed production are opening new possibilities. With government support, seaweed cultivation clusters are being developed in the state, creating new income opportunities for women and youth.”
Concluding his address, the Prime Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to prosperity and development. He expressed confidence that the growth of Keralam’s coastal economy would contribute to the broader vision of building a Viksit Bharat and a Viksit Keralam.
Akhila Kerala Dheevara Sabha is celebrating its 50th anniversary today.
— narendramodi_in (@narendramodi_in) March 11, 2026
For the past 50 years, this organisation has continuously worked to protect the rights of the fishermen community: PM @narendramodi
The long wait of my Malayali brothers and sisters has finally come to an end.
— narendramodi_in (@narendramodi_in) March 11, 2026
For many years, all of you wished that the name of Kerala should be changed to Keralam.
Our BJP-NDA government at the Centre has approved this proposal: PM @narendramodi
Akhila Kerala Dheevara Sabha has played a very important role in promoting social harmony: PM @narendramodi
— narendramodi_in (@narendramodi_in) March 11, 2026
The hard work and capabilities of our fishermen community have the potential to give new momentum to the country's economy: PM @narendramodi at Golden Jubilee celebrations of Akhila Kerala Dheevara Sabha
— narendramodi_in (@narendramodi_in) March 11, 2026
