NE INFRA & ECONOMY BUREAU
KOCHI, MAR 11
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for multiple development projects worth around ₹11,000 crore in Kochi, signalling a major push for infrastructure, industrial growth and energy security in Kerala.
Addressing a big rally in Ernakulam. The people of Keralam are placing their trust in the NDA’s roadmap for development and progress.
https://t.co/DxYoWEtVlI— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 11, 2026
Addressing a large gathering in the coastal city, Modi said the projects would strengthen the state’s economic ecosystem while improving the daily lives of citizens.
“These projects will promote industrial growth, boost tourism and enhance ease of living for the people of Keralam.”
Extending greetings to the people of the state, the Prime Minister remarked:
“I extend my heartiest congratulations to the people of Keralam for these projects.”
Energy and Manufacturing Boost
Among the major initiatives unveiled was the Polypropylene Unit at the Kochi Refinery, which is expected to produce around four lakh tonnes annually. The project is designed to strengthen India’s petrochemical sector and support industries such as packaging, textiles and medical devices.
Highlighting the importance of energy infrastructure for national development, Modi said:
“The expansion of the petroleum sector is essential for Make in India and a self-reliant India, the essence behind laying the foundation stone of the Poly-Propylene unit at Kochi Refinery today.”
Renewable Energy and Green Transition
The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for a 50-MW Floating Solar Power Project at West Kallada, reflecting the government’s focus on renewable energy.
He noted that Kerala’s vast network of water bodies makes it ideal for floating solar installations.
“It is our endeavor that Keralam moves further ahead in solar power generation.”
Linking technological progress with sustainable energy needs, Modi said India’s ambitions in sectors such as artificial intelligence and semiconductor manufacturing require a strong clean-energy ecosystem.
Rail and Connectivity Transformation
The Prime Minister also highlighted major improvements in railway infrastructure under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, including modernisation of Shoranur Junction, Kuttipuram and Changanassery stations, along with a new Palakkad–Pollachi train service that will improve connectivity between Kerala and neighbouring Tamil Nadu.
Commenting on India’s infrastructure momentum, he said: “Today, the world praises India for its investments in modern infrastructure; This year’s Union Budget has also allocated a record amount of funds for infrastructure.”
Road and Port Connectivity
Modi also highlighted several highway and port connectivity projects, including the six-lane Kozhikode Bypass and improved access to Azhikkal Port, which are expected to reduce congestion and improve logistics.
Emphasising the broader economic benefits, he said: “All these projects will benefit the farmers of Keralam; they will give a boost to tourism and other industries here.”
Vision for a Developed Keralam
Reiterating the role of infrastructure as a catalyst for employment and economic growth, Modi said the new projects would significantly contribute to the state’s long-term development.
“Keralam is reaping tremendous benefits from this investment in infrastructure.”
“I am fully confident that these projects will play a pivotal role in fulfilling our resolve for a ‘Viksit Keralam’.”
