Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday urged people in Kerala to consider a new political course, saying the state is standing at an important crossroads in the 21st century.
Referring to the state as ‘Keralam’, he emphasised that the region requires a fresh start beyond the long-standing cycle of governance by the two dominant political alliances.
Speaking at the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) convention in Kochi, the Prime Minister stated that the Union government ensured official recognition of the name ‘Keralam’.
He said, “People across the world will now refer to Kerala as Keralam, and this has been made possible by the NDA government.”
According to him, this recognition would encourage people around the world to identify the state by its traditional name.
PM Modi noted that the coming decades would play a decisive role in shaping Kerala’s future. He remarked that the state possesses vast potential because of its vibrant culture, extensive coastline and favourable climate.
However, he argued that the repeated alternation of power between the Left Democratic Front (LDF) and the United Democratic Front (UDF) has slowed progress. He claimed that this pattern has resulted in corruption and has obstructed development.
The Prime Minister also criticised the UDF, describing it as an ‘MMC alliance’, which he said referred to the Muslim League, Maoists and the Congress.
Promise of a Double-Engine Government
PM Modi encouraged voters to give the NDA an opportunity after decades of governance by the same political formations. He said a ‘double engine government’ would accelerate progress in sectors such as tourism, information technology and emerging industries.
He also highlighted plans to promote destination weddings, international conferences and global meetings to position Kerala as a major tourism destination.
Discussing welfare initiatives, the Prime Minister said the Centre has introduced several schemes to support fishermen, including an insurance cover of Rs 5 lakh for nearly four lakh fishermen across the country.
He also pointed to the Vizhinjam International Seaport as a major infrastructure project backed by the Centre, stating that developments of this scale could significantly strengthen the state’s economy.
Addressing concerns among Malayalis living in Gulf countries amid tensions in West Asia, PM Modi assured that the government would continue to protect and assist Indians overseas.
Also Read: PM Modi Praises Fisher Community At Kerala Dheevara Sabha Golden Jubilee In Kochi
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