Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched infrastructure projects worth Rs.4,000 crore in Kerala, signaling a major boost for the region's development. The inauguration took place in Kochi and included three crucial projects: the New Dry Dock at Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL), the International Ship Repair Facility (ISRF) of CSL, and the Indian Oil Corp Ltd's LPG Import Terminal at Puthuvypeen, Kochi. These initiatives align with the government's goal to transform India's ports, shipping, and waterways sector, enhancing capacity and self-reliance.

The New Dry Dock at CSL, with an investment of around Rs.1,800 crore, stands as a testament to India's engineering prowess. This expansive infrastructure, one of the largest in the region, is designed to accommodate future aircraft carriers and large commercial vessels. The ISRF, constructed at a cost of approximately Rs.970 crore, aims to modernize CSL's ship repair capabilities and position Kochi as a prominent ship repair hub.

Indian Oil's LPG Import Terminal, built for about Rs.1,236 crore, ensures a consistent LPG supply in the region, contributing to enhanced energy accessibility for India.

These projects not only elevate India's shipbuilding and repair capacities but also stimulate growth in energy infrastructure, reduce logistics costs, and create numerous domestic and international business opportunities.

The event saw the presence of notable figures, including Kerala's governor Arif Mohammed Khan, chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan, and Union minister for ports, shipping, and waterways Sarbananda Sonowal.

In his address, PM Modi emphasized the crucial role of states in India's journey towards becoming a 'Viksit Bharat' during the Amrit Kaal. He reflected on the historical significance of ports in India's prosperity and envisioned their pivotal role in the contemporary era as India emerges as a key player in global trade.

PM Modi highlighted the government's efforts to strengthen port cities like Kochi, encompassing the augmentation of port capacity, infrastructure investments, and improved connectivity under the Sagarmala Project. The addition of shipbuilding, ship repairing, and the LPG import terminal is poised to drive development in Kerala and the southern region.

Expressing pride in the construction of the 'Made in India' aircraft carrier INS Vikrant at the Kochi Shipyard, PM Modi noted that the new facilities will significantly enhance the shipyard's capabilities.

He also outlined sectoral reforms over the past decade, attracting new investments and creating job opportunities. PM Modi cited a 140% increase in the number of Indian seafarers due to regulatory reforms and growth in passenger and cargo transport through inland waterways. The impressive double-digit annual growth of Indian ports over the last decade reflects significant improvement, surpassing the challenges of long waits and slow unloading times.

PM Modi touched upon India's role in global trade, specifically the agreements made during India's G20 Presidency regarding the Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. This corridor is expected to strengthen India's coastal economy and contribute to the vision of Viksit Bharat. He also mentioned the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision, a roadmap to bolster India's maritime prowess.

Discussing the new dry dock, PM Modi termed it a national pride that will facilitate docking of large vessels, enhance shipbuilding and repair, reduce foreign dependency, and conserve foreign exchange. The International Ship Repair Facility is expected to position Kochi as a prime ship repair center in India and Asia. The new LPG Import Terminal will meet the LPG needs of multiple regions, supporting local industries, economic activities, and job creation.

PM Modi also acknowledged the significant role of the fishermen community in the blue economy and port-led development. He credited the increase in fish production and exports over the last decade to initiatives like PM Matsya Sampada Yojna, modernized boats subsidies, and Kisan Credit Cards for fishermen. Emphasizing that these developments in the seafood processing sector will substantially raise fishermen's incomes and improve their lives.

PM Modi performs Darshan, Puja in Thrissur's Guruvayur Temple

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be on a two-day visit to the South from today