Kochi, March 11 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that the Centre's renaming of the state from Kerala to Keralam was a joyous moment for the "Malayali" people.
The PM was addressing the golden jubilee celebration of the Akhila Kerala Dheevara Sabha, an organization that works for the welfare of the fishing community in the state.
In his inaugural address, Modi praised the role of the fishing community during the 2018 floods in Kerala, highlighting their courage, service, and dedication at that time.
He also pointed out that the Dheevara Sabha has been working for the rights of fishermen for 50 years.
Modi said that the Centre has also been working for the welfare of the fishing community and has implemented various initiatives to empower them.
He also said that the Union government has taken various measures, including installing over 4,500 satellite-based transponders in fishing boats, to ensure the safety of fishermen at sea.
Modi arrived at the Kochi international airport around 11.30 am and then travelled by helicopter to the naval base here.
From there, he travelled by road to Marine Drive for his first event of the day – the golden jubilee celebrations of the Akhila Kerala Dheevara Sabha.
The PM arrived in poll-bound Kerala to participate in a series of programmes here, including the inauguration of the BJP-led NDA's election convention.