Malayalis for a long time wanted the name of Kerala to be changed to Keralam. I can see the happiness on all your faces: PM Modi
Previous govts have for decades neglected the fishermen community. But now the NDA govt is progressing and boosting them to unlimited capabilities: PM
Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, a provision of around 1400 crore rupees has been made for Keralam: PM Modi
PM Modi expresses confidence that the growth of Kerala’s coastal economy would contribute to the broader vision of building a Viksit Bharat and a Viksit Keralam

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.

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PM Modi addresses a mega public meeting in Ernakulam, Keralam
March 11, 2026
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Amid a massive gathering in Ernakulam today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the enthusiasm and confidence of the people reflected a strong aspiration for Keralam’s development and a new political direction in the state. He emphasised that the aspirations of the people clearly indicate a desire for faster growth and new opportunities.

Expressing confidence in the people’s mandate, PM Modi said, “The 21st century is a crucial time for Keralam. The state needs a new future and a new beginning. I am happy that the people of Keralam have decided to come out of the cycle of LDF and UDF. The confidence visible in this massive public meeting shows that people are ready for change.”

Highlighting the vision of a double-engine government, He stated Keralam possesses immense natural and human potential. He noted that the state has nature, culture, talent, technology and the blessings of the vast sea. However, he remarked that despite these strengths, development had not progressed at the desired pace due to alternating governments and political patterns that slowed long-term progress.

Calling for a new political direction, PM Modi iterated, “For rapid development, this pattern must change. You have given Congress and the Left more than seventy years. Now give BJP-NDA the next five years and you will see the vision of a Viksit Keralam take shape. You have Modi’s guarantee, what has not changed until now will change and Keralam will move forward.”

The Prime Minister said the vision of BJP-NDA is to position Keralam as a global hub for wellness, tourism and cultural experiences. He said, “For a Viksit Keralam, we must create new opportunities in tourism, talent and technology. The youth of Keralam have tremendous capability, and they should lead new sectors like startups, innovation and emerging technologies.”

Highlighting economic priorities, the PM stated, “Our government has ensured financial support and security for fishermen. Fishermen have been provided access to credit through the Kisan Credit Card and insurance coverage of up to five lakh rupees. Major projects like the Vizhinjam International Seaport show our commitment to strengthening the Blue Economy.”

Addressing concerns related to developments in the Gulf region, PM Modi said the government remains fully committed to the safety and welfare of Indian citizens working abroad. “Whenever any Indian citizen has faced danger anywhere in the world, India has made every effort to bring them back safely. Our embassies and missions are working round the clock to ensure help, food, medical care and support for our people,” he said.

“Whether it was rescuing nurses trapped in Iraq or securing the release of Father Tom from terrorists in Yemen, today’s India does not leave its citizens alone in times of crisis. We also brought Father Alexis Prem Kumar safely back from Afghanistan. Even today, our effort is to ensure safety and every possible assistance for Indians caught in difficult situations,” he added.

Coming down heavily on the Congress, PM Modi said, “It is unfortunate that even in such a serious global situation, the Congress party is indulging in politics. Congress leaders are making provocative statements so that the situation worsens, our people face difficulties and then they can start a campaign of abusing Modi.”

Highlighting the importance of self-reliance, PM Modi said, “India is continuously working to become self-reliant in the energy sector. Solar power capacity is expanding, electric mobility is being promoted and railway electrification is progressing rapidly. These steps are strengthening India’s long-term energy security.”

“On one hand, the BJP-NDA government is working tirelessly to make India self-reliant. On the other hand, Congress and the Left are busy mocking the Aatmanirbhar Bharat campaign. When they were in power, they only increased the country’s dependence on foreign nations. Even today, at a time when the world is facing conflict, Congress, the Left and their ecosystem are spreading rumours and creating panic. I urge the people of the country to stay alert and cautious against such misinformation.”

Criticising political opponents in the state, the Prime Minister said LDF and UDF represent two sides of the same system. He alleged that both groups have been associated with corruption, stalled development and divisive politics, which have hindered the progress of the state.

He continued, “When UDF was in power, the state witnessed the solar scam. Today, under LDF rule, the CMRL scam is dominating the headlines. Look at their partnership even in controversies around the Sabarimala temple. There are allegations of gold loot against leaders of one side and accusations of selling the looted gold against leaders of the other.”

Taking a swipe at the UDF and LDF, PM Modi asserted, "On one side is the UDF led by the Congress, which has now become MMC - Muslim League Maoist Congress. To win elections in Keralam, Congress depends on organisations like Jamaat and others whose radical agendas threaten the peace of the state. On the other side, the LDF has long-standing ties with extremist elements like the PDP, whose leaders are known for spreading extremism among the youth. Therefore, the people of Keralam must remain cautious of both UDF and LDF.”

Calling for a new mandate, the Prime Minister concluded by saying, “The goal of BJP is the development of the nation and the development of Keralam. With a BJP-NDA government here and a double-engine government, Keralam will move ahead with double the speed toward prosperity and growth.”