Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated the 8,800 crore Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport to the nation during a ceremony in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Marking a major milestone in India’s maritime infrastructure, the Prime Minister described the port as a “symbol of new age development,” and emphasized its critical role in transforming India into a global transshipment hub. Built to handle the world’s largest cargo ships, Vizhinjam is set to triple its capacity in the coming years and significantly reduce India’s dependence on foreign ports for transshipment—currently at 75%—thereby retaining economic gains within the country.
Addressing the gathering on the birth anniversary of Adi Shankaracharya, PM Modi recalled his contributions to India’s spiritual and cultural unity and drew parallels with Kerala’s historical maritime strength. He highlighted Kerala’s ancient global trade links and reaffirmed the Centre’s vision to empower coastal states through enhanced port infrastructure and seamless connectivity under initiatives like Sagarmala and PM Gati Shakti. The Prime Minister noted that over the past decade, India’s port efficiency has improved remarkably, with a 30% reduction in ship turnaround time and a doubling of port capacity. India has also become one of the top three nations globally in seafarer numbers, growing from 1.25 lakh in 2014 to over 3.25 lakh today.
PM Modi launched the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision, outlining India’s strategy for becoming a developed maritime nation. He emphasized Kerala’s key role in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor and announced plans for a shipbuilding and repair cluster in Kochi, expected to generate substantial employment. He also highlighted new policies to boost shipbuilding, which will benefit MSMEs and create nationwide entrepreneurial opportunities.
Underscoring inclusive development, the Prime Minister praised Kerala’s progress in highways, railways, airports, and modern projects like the Vande Bharat trains. He reiterated the Centre’s commitment to Kerala’s welfare through schemes such as Jal Jeevan Mission, Ayushman Bharat, and the Pradhan Mantri Suryagarh Yojana. Fishermen, too, have benefited from financial aid, modernized harbors, and Kisan Credit Cards under the Blue Revolution and Matsya Sampada Yojana.
Paying tribute to Pope Francis, whose passing was recently mourned worldwide, PM Modi expressed condolences and fondly recalled his own meetings with the spiritual leader. Concluding his address, he envisioned Kerala as a global maritime hub and assured full support from the Centre in realizing this goal. The event was attended by Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, and other dignitaries.
