Kochi, 11 March (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid foundation stones for development projects worth nearly ₹11,000 crore in Kochi on Wednesday, stressing petroleum sector expansion as vital for Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India goals.

Petrochemical and Green Energy Boost

The Kochi Refinery's new polypropylene unit will produce 400,000 tonnes annually, supporting packaging, textiles, automobiles, and medical devices. PM Modi highlighted India's rise as a manufacturing hub in AI and semiconductors, with rising green energy demand met by projects like the 50 MW floating solar initiative at West Kallada reservoir—tapping Kerala's vast water bodies for solar potential.

Infrastructure Overhaul

Modernization under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme transformed Shoranur Junction, Kuttippuram, and Changanassery stations, alongside electrification of the Shoranur-Nilambur line and launch of Palakkad-Pollachi train service linking Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Six-laning of Azhikkal Port road and Kozhikode Bypass will ease congestion, cut travel times, and boost farmer incomes, tourism, and jobs for thousands of youth.

PM Modi affirmed these initiatives will realize a Viksit Kerala vision amid global acclaim for India's infrastructure push and record central budget allocations.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar