Narendra Modi reaffirmed the NDA government’s commitment to strengthening the welfare and livelihood of the country’s fishermen while addressing the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the Akhila Kerala Dheevara Sabha in Kochi. The Prime Minister highlighted the crucial role of the fishing community in India’s economy and society, and emphasised the government’s efforts to empower them through targeted policies and welfare initiatives.
During his address, Modi praised the fishermen of Kerala for their courage and service, particularly recalling their remarkable contribution during the 2018 Kerala floods. He noted that when the devastating floods struck the state, fishermen risked their own lives to rescue thousands of stranded people using their boats, earning them recognition as “the true heroes of the crisis.”
The Prime Minister also lauded the work of the Akhila Kerala Dheevara Sabha, describing it as an organisation that has consistently worked for the rights and welfare of the fishermen community. According to him, the organisation has set an example of how traditional livelihoods can be balanced with modern progress while maintaining harmony with nature.
Modi highlighted the cultural and philosophical values of the Dheevara community, noting that they consider the oceans as their “amma” or mother. He said this reflects India’s age-old philosophy of respecting nature and living in harmony with it. The Prime Minister added that such values are essential in today’s world, especially when sustainable development and environmental balance are becoming global priorities.
Congratulating the people of Kerala, the Prime Minister also welcomed the Union Cabinet’s approval to officially rename the state as Keralam. He said the decision gives the state its rightful and culturally rooted name, reflecting its linguistic and historical identity.
At the same time, Modi criticised the previous governments led by the Left Democratic Front and the United Democratic Front, alleging that they had neglected the welfare of the fishermen community for decades. He said the BJP-led NDA government has recognised the immense potential of fishermen and their importance in strengthening India’s blue economy.
Highlighting policy measures taken by the Centre, the Prime Minister said the government created a separate Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying to ensure focused attention on the sector. He also pointed to major investments under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, under which nearly ₹1,400 crore has been allocated for the fisheries sector in Keralam.
According to Modi, these initiatives are helping modernise infrastructure, improve fish production, enhance fishermen’s income, and strengthen coastal economies. As a result, he said, the fisheries sector in Keralam is witnessing rapid progress and opening new opportunities for employment and economic growth.
Concluding his address, the Prime Minister reiterated that empowering fishermen is central to India’s broader vision of a thriving blue economy and inclusive development. He emphasised that the government will continue to introduce reforms and welfare measures to ensure dignity, prosperity, and sustainable livelihoods for fishing communities across the country.
Leave Your Comment