PM Modi inaugurates new train services, launches welfare schemes, and highlights development vision during Thiruvananthapuram visit
New Delhi: On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched four new rail services, including three Amrit Bharat Express trains, and a number of major development projects in Kerala. The visit’s main objectives were to boost the state’s infrastructure, increase financial assistance for the underprivileged, and improve train connectivity.
Addressing a large public gathering in Thiruvananthapuram, PM Modi greeted the crowd with a warm “Namaskaram.” He said the people of Kerala are increasingly connecting with the BJP-NDA’s vision of building a “Vikasita Keralam,” meaning a developed Kerala. The Prime Minister also spoke about the state’s growing role in India’s overall development journey.
PM Modi Shares Message After Public Meeting
After the event, PM Modi shared a post on social media highlighting the importance of the Thiruvananthapuram rally. In his post, he wrote: “The public meeting in Thiruvananthapuram was special. The people of Kerala relate with BJP-NDA’s vision of building a Vikasita Keralam.”
The post included images showing a large crowd and banners reflecting the development theme of the programme.
New Amrit Bharat Trains to Boost Rail Connectivity
During the visit, the Prime Minister flagged off four new train services. These include three Amrit Bharat Express trains and one passenger train. The new services are:
Nagercoil–Mangaluru Amrit Bharat Express
- Thiruvananthapuram–Tambaram Amrit Bharat Express
- Thiruvananthapuram–Charlapalli Amrit Bharat Express
- Passenger train between Thrissur and Guruvayur
These trains will improve connectivity between Kerala and neighbouring states such as Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. Officials said the new services will make travel easier, more affordable, and more comfortable. They are also expected to support tourism, education, trade, and employment.
PM SVANidhi Credit Card Launched for Street Vendors
Along with transport projects, PM Modi launched the PM SVANidhi Credit Card during the programme. The card aims to support street vendors, small traders, and hawkers by providing them with a UPI-linked revolving credit facility.
While launching the scheme, the Prime Minister said the credit card marks “a new beginning for the welfare of the poor.” He pointed out that earlier only wealthy people had access to credit cards, but now street vendors will also benefit from formal financial services and digital payments.
During the event, PM Modi distributed PM SVANidhi loans to one lakh beneficiaries. Around 10,000 vendors from Kerala and more than 600 vendors from Thiruvananthapuram received credit cards on the spot.
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Focus on Innovation, Healthcare, and Citizen Services
Along with trains and welfare schemes, the Prime Minister also launched and laid foundation stones for several key projects. First, he inaugurated the CSIR-NIIST Innovation, Technology and Entrepreneurship Hub. This centre will support research, life sciences, sustainable technology, and start-ups.
Next, he laid the foundation for a new Radiosurgery Centre at the Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology. This facility will help strengthen advanced healthcare services.
In addition, he inaugurated the new Poojappura Head Post Office. This post office will offer better postal, banking, insurance, and digital services to the public.
Together, these projects aim to boost innovation, improve access to healthcare, and strengthen public services across Kerala.
Development Message and Political Context
During his speech, PM Modi said that Kerala’s development is moving faster, especially in areas like rail infrastructure and innovation. He also spoke about efforts to turn Thiruvananthapuram into a major start-up and technology hub.
The Prime Minister congratulated P P Rajesh, who was recently sworn in as the Mayor of Thiruvananthapuram. He also referred to the BJP’s historic performance in the municipal elections.
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar were present at the event, showing participation from both state and central leadership.
Overall, the visit highlighted the Centre’s emphasis on inclusive growth, improved connectivity, financial assistance to the poor, and long-term development initiatives aimed at boosting Kerala’s economy and enhancing public services.
