PM Modi Inaugurates Major Projects Worth Rs 11,000 Crore in Kerala
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday dedicated a series of development projects valued at nearly Rs 11,000 crore to the state of Kerala during his visit, while also formally launching the National Democratic Alliance's (NDA) electoral campaign in the poll-bound region. The significant infrastructure push and political mobilization marked a pivotal moment in the state's pre-election landscape.
Substantial Investments in Refinery, Highways, and Railways
During the event in Kochi, PM Modi laid the foundation stone for a polypropylene unit at the Kochi refinery of Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), with an estimated cost exceeding Rs 5,500 crore. This project is expected to bolster the petrochemical sector and generate employment opportunities.
Additionally, the Prime Minister inaugurated two major highway projects, each costing over Rs 2,000 crore, aimed at enhancing connectivity and reducing travel time across key corridors. He also dedicated railway initiatives worth Rs 142 crore to the nation, focusing on modernizing rail infrastructure and improving passenger amenities in Kerala.
Formal Endorsement of 'Keralam' Name Change
In his addresses, PM Modi repeatedly referred to the state as "Keralam," aligning with the central government's approval to rename Kerala. He emphasized that this move fulfills a longstanding demand of the people. The Union Cabinet had approved the proposal on February 24, following a resolution passed by the state assembly in 2024, formalizing the transition to the traditional name.
Political Dynamics and Absences at the Event
Notably, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and state ministers M B Rajesh and K Krishnankutty were absent from the PM's official event. While no specific reason was provided for Vijayan's absence, his cabinet colleagues cited personal inconvenience. This absence highlighted the ongoing political tensions between the central and state governments.
NDA Rally and Call for Political Change
At the NDA rally, PM Modi urged Kerala to break its cyclical pattern of alternating between the Communist Party of India (Marxist)-led Left Democratic Front (LDF) and the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) governments. He appealed for a five-year mandate to transform Kerala into a developed state, promising accelerated growth and development under NDA leadership.
Criticism of Rahul Gandhi and Congress
Taking a direct swipe at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, PM Modi criticized his awareness of India's youth achievements, particularly in drone manufacturing. He referenced Gandhi's recent statement in Thiruvananthapuram, where the Congress MP claimed China dominates drone production and India lags behind. Modi countered, stating, "He doesn't know many companies in India are manufacturing drones. He doesn't know that Keralam's youth are building drone startups. He is limited to a small circle and cannot see the growth of India."
Modi also accused the Congress of making "provocative and irresponsible statements" regarding the West Asia crisis for political gains, alleging they aim to worsen the situation and blame the government. "That is their game," he asserted, without delving into specific details.
Allegations in Sabarimala Gold Scam
In a pointed attack on both LDF and UDF, PM Modi referenced the Sabarimala gold scam, alleging, "While LDF functionaries are accused of looting the gold from the temple, UDF is accused of selling the looted gold." He did not elaborate further on the allegations, but the remarks underscored the political rivalry and corruption charges in the state.
The visit underscored the central government's focus on infrastructure development in Kerala, coupled with a robust political campaign as elections approach. The projects and political rhetoric set the stage for intensified electoral battles in the coming months.
