The Impressive TimesThiruvananthapuram, Jan 23: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday unveiled a series of key development projects in Kerala’s capital, marking a significant push in rail connectivity, urban welfare, innovation, and healthcare. Addressing a large gathering in Thiruvananthapuram, the Prime Minister said the Centre’s development efforts in Kerala have entered a new phase with projects aimed at boosting employment, infrastructure, and financial inclusion.
A highlight of the event was the nationwide rollout of the PM SVANidhi Credit Card, designed to support street vendors, hawkers, and small informal workers. The Prime Minister said the card will provide easy access to working capital and promote digital transactions among vendors who traditionally lacked access to formal credit. Thousands of beneficiaries in Kerala received the cards and loans during the event.
Emphasizing the role of cities in building a “Viksit Bharat,” the Prime Minister noted that the Union Government has invested heavily in urban infrastructure over the past decade. He also pointed to welfare schemes aimed at improving the lives of urban poor families.
Under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban), more than one crore permanent houses have been provided to city dwellers across India, with around 1.25 lakh homes allotted in Kerala alone. The Prime Minister added that initiatives such as PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana are helping families cut electricity costs, while Ayushman Bharat continues to offer free medical treatment up to ₹5 lakh for eligible citizens.
He further said that expanded banking access over the years has allowed women, SC/ST/OBC communities, fishermen, and other vulnerable groups to receive institutional loans, often with government-backed guarantees.
Strengthening transport infrastructure, the Prime Minister flagged off four new train services, including three Amrit Bharat Express trains and one passenger train. These services will improve connectivity between Kerala and neighboring states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh.
The newly introduced routes are expected to ease long-distance travel, support tourism, and enhance trade and educational mobility. A new passenger train between Thrissur and Guruvayur will also benefit pilgrims and local commuters.
In a move to position Kerala as a hub of scientific research and entrepreneurship, the Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for a CSIR Innovation, Technology and Entrepreneurship Hub in Thiruvananthapuram. The facility will promote research in life sciences, green technologies, sustainable packaging, and bio-economy, while encouraging startups and industry partnerships.
Healthcare infrastructure also received a major upgrade with the foundation stone laid for a state-of-the-art Radiosurgery Centre at the Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute. The centre will provide advanced, minimally invasive treatment for complex brain disorders, strengthening tertiary care facilities in the region.
Additionally, a modern Head Post Office building in Poojappura was inaugurated, offering integrated postal, banking, insurance, and digital services.
Concluding his address, Prime Minister Modi said that Kerala’s progress is essential for achieving the larger goal of a developed India. He reiterated the Centre’s commitment to supporting the state’s growth across sectors including infrastructure, innovation, and social welfare.
Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Union Ministers, and other dignitaries were present at the event.
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