Kochi, 11 March (H.S.):

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing a rapturous rally here ahead of Keralam’s assembly elections, expressed profound thanks to Gulf nations for safeguarding Indian expatriates amid escalating West Asia conflicts, while reaffirming India’s ironclad commitment to its citizens abroad.

Before captivating the crowd at the Golden Jubilee Sammelan, PM Modi inaugurated development projects exceeding ₹10,000 crore, spanning highways, railways, and a major polypropylene unit at BPCL’s Kochi Refinery. These initiatives, from ministries including Petroleum, Road Transport, and Railways, aim to turbocharge infrastructure and connectivity in this coastal powerhouse, positioning Keralam as an AI and technology hub.

Rally Rhetoric Targets Kerala’s Political Stagnation

PM Modi lambasted the alternating LDF-UDF regimes for stifling Keralam’s potential through corruption and complacency. “Despite immense promise, Keralam lags; this cycle of one front after another has inflicted grave damage,” he declared, urging voters to grant BJP-NDA a chance after seven decades of opposition dominance. “With Modi’s guarantee, witness a Viksit Keralam,” he pledged, spotlighting local drone startups overlooked by Congress leaders.

West Asia Crisis: Assurance Over Alarm

With thousands of Keralites ensconced in Gulf states roiled by the US-Iran-Israel war—including strikes on bases in UAE, Bahrain, and Kuwait—Mr. Modi assuaged anxieties. “It’s natural to worry about Gulf and West Asia events, but under BJP-NDA, we deploy every resource for our compatriots’ safety,” he stated, invoking past triumphs like evacuating nurses from Iraq and rescuing Father Tom from Yemen terrorists. He lauded Gulf hosts for their “utmost care” and 24/7 embassy support, censuring Congress for “provocative” politicisation that hampers rescues.

Self-Reliance Echoes in Turbulent Times

The prime minister wove the crisis into a broader narrative of Atmanirbhar Bharat, noting how conflicts—from Covid to Ukraine and now West Asia—underscore self-reliance’s imperative. “India today never abandons its citizens; we ensure aid reaches every Indian in strife-torn lands,” he affirmed, blending reassurance with a call for governance overhaul.

This high-octane visit, Modi’s first post the Union Cabinet’s nod to rename Kerala as Keralam, signals BJP’s aggressive poll push in a state where NDA seeks to shatter the bipolar duopoly ahead of May voting.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar