PM Modi Inaugurates, Lays Foundation for ₹11,000-Crore Projects in Keralam

Petrochemicals, renewable energy, rail and road projects to boost industry, connectivity and tourism in Keralam

Kochi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for multiple infrastructure and industrial projects worth around ₹11,000 crore in Kochi, marking a major development push for Keralam.

Addressing a gathering in Ernakulam district, Modi said the projects are aimed at strengthening industrial growth, improving connectivity and enhancing ease of living for the people of the state.

A key project announced during the visit was the polypropylene unit at the Kochi Refinery, designed to strengthen the petroleum sector and support domestic manufacturing. The facility is expected to produce about four lakh tonnes annually, supplying raw material for packaging, textile and medical device industries. Modi said the expansion of the petroleum sector is critical to advancing the Make in India initiative and building a self-reliant economy.

The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for a 50 MW floating solar power project at West Kallada, highlighting kerala’s strong potential for solar power generation due to its numerous water bodies. He said the project reflects the government’s push toward cleaner energy and sustainable development.

In the transport sector, railway modernization projects under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme were announced for Shoranur junction, Kuttipuram and Changanassery. A new Palakkad–Pollachi train service was also launched to improve connectivity between Keralam and Tamil Nadu.

Road infrastructure projects were also highlighted, including six-lane highway works such as the Kozhikode bypass and improved connectivity to Azhikkal port, which are expected to ease congestion and reduce travel time.

Modi said global recognition of India’s infrastructure expansion reflects sustained investment in modern connectivity, adding that the Union Budget has allocated record funding for infrastructure development.

The Prime Minister noted that such investments are already delivering significant benefits to kerala and will support sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, tourism and industry while creating employment opportunities for youth.

He expressed confidence that the projects will play a crucial role in achieving the vision of a developed Keralam, describing infrastructure investment as a key driver of economic growth and regional development.

During the visit, Modi also highlighted emerging opportunities in seaweed cultivation and modern fish farming, noting that government initiatives, including the creation of a dedicated ministry for fisheries, are strengthening livelihoods in coastal communities.

He also acknowledged the role of Akhila Kerala Dheevara Sabha in promoting social harmony and unity in society.