PM Modi Unveils Rail and Development Initiatives in Kerala, Stressing State's Role in India's Growth
Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that enhanced rail connectivity will significantly boost travel and tourism, thereby fostering the overall development of Kerala. Speaking in Thiruvananthapuram after flagging off four new trains, including three Amrit Bharat services, and launching a series of projects, Modi asserted that a developed Kerala is essential for realizing the dream of a developed India. "In this, the Centre stood with the people of the state," he added, highlighting the collaborative efforts between the central and state governments.
Comprehensive Central Schemes Benefiting All Sections of Society
Modi detailed how various central schemes are designed to uplift diverse groups, including the poor, urban poor, middle class, and salaried individuals. He pointed out that investments in science and technology are poised to transform Thiruvananthapuram into a thriving hub for startups, attracting innovation and entrepreneurship to the region. The Prime Minister noted that the Centre's initiatives to develop Kerala have gained a new direction, with a focus on inclusive growth and infrastructure enhancement.
PM SVANidhi Credit Card: Empowering Small Traders and Street Vendors
One of the key announcements was the launch of the PM SVANidhi credit card, which is set to benefit small traders, tailors, pushcart vendors, and road stall owners. Modi revealed that approximately 10,000 people across Kerala and 600 in Thiruvananthapuram will gain from this scheme. Reflecting on the past 11 years, he mentioned that crores of individuals have been integrated into the banking network, enabling easier access to loans for the poor, SC/ST communities, OBCs, women, and fishermen. "They did not have any guarantee, but the government became the guarantor," he stated, underscoring the role of state support in financial inclusion.
Modi highlighted the plight of street vendors who previously had to borrow even small amounts like Rs 100 at exorbitant interest rates. The introduction of the PM SVANidhi scheme has allowed lakhs of such vendors to secure bank loans for the first time in their lives. Taking it a step further, the Centre has now provided them with credit cards, a facility once reserved for the affluent, thereby democratizing access to credit and fostering economic empowerment.
Urban Development and Housing Initiatives for the Poor
Stressing the critical role of cities in India's development, Modi announced that the Centre is making substantial investments in urban development. The urban poor are reaping benefits through schemes like the PM Awas Yojana, which aims to uplift them by providing housing. Out of the four crore homes constructed for the poor nationwide, one crore has been allocated to the urban poor, with 25 lakh urban poor in Kerala also receiving this support. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to improve living conditions and reduce urban poverty.
Health, Energy, and Tax Benefits Reaching Kerala
Modi also touched upon other central schemes that are making a difference in Kerala. The PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana helps poor families save on power bills, while the PM Jan Arogya Yojana offers a health cover of Rs 5 lakh. Additionally, the government has made income up to Rs 12 lakh tax-free, with these benefits extending to the state, particularly aiding the middle and salaried classes. These measures are designed to enhance financial security and well-being across societal strata.
Key Projects Inaugurated and Launched in Thiruvananthapuram
During the event, Modi flagged off three Amrit Bharat trains: Thiruvananthapuram Central-Tambaram, Thiruvananthapuram-North-Charlapalli, and Nagercoil-Mangalore Junction, along with a passenger train connecting Thrissur and Guruvayur. He also laid the foundation stone for the CSIR-NIIST innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship hub, inaugurated a modern radiosurgery centre at the Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, and launched the new head post office building at Poojappura. These projects are expected to boost infrastructure, healthcare, and technological advancement in the region.
In summary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Thiruvananthapuram underscored a multifaceted approach to Kerala's development, combining improved rail connectivity, financial inclusion, urban housing, healthcare, and startup promotion. By leveraging central schemes and local initiatives, the aim is to propel Kerala towards greater prosperity, contributing to India's overall growth trajectory.
