Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended the fisher community during the golden jubilee celebrations of the Kerala Dheevara Sabha in Kochi. He highlighted the government’s efforts to strengthen the fisheries sector, aiming to connect with the politically influential coastal population in the state. PM Modi, on a brief visit to Kochi, attended this event as his first engagement of the day.
Addressing a large audience at the organization’s 50th-anniversary celebration, PM Modi termed it a “historic day” for a group that has dedicatedly worked for the welfare of fisher folk. In response to Sabha president V. Dinakaran’s statement that the Prime Minister had come to bless the community, PM Modi humbly mentioned that he was there to seek their blessings.
Dinakaran, a former Congress MLA who recently joined the BJP, leads the association that represents a substantial portion of Kerala’s fishing community. With an estimated 2.5 million fisher folk across the state, the Kerala Dheevara Sabha holds sway in about 45 Assembly constituencies, making them a significant political force in Kerala.
PM Modi praised the community for their historical role in safeguarding the nation’s coastal resources and traditions, emphasizing their cultural reverence for water bodies as a manifestation of ‘Mother Nature.’ He also acknowledged the humanitarian efforts of spiritual leader Mata Amritanandamayi.
Reflecting on Kerala’s past floods, the Prime Minister lauded the fisher folk for their bravery and service in rescuing affected residents. He outlined the government’s initiatives for the fisheries sector, including a dedicated ministry to bolster the “blue economy” and projects worth approximately Rs 1,400 crore for Kerala’s fisher folk under various schemes.
PM Modi highlighted initiatives such as the National Fisheries Digital Platform, satellite-based navigation support for fishing boats, and the establishment of nine modern integrated coastal villages in Kerala. He underlined the modernization of fishing harbors and the provision of facilities like ice plants with financial support from the Central government.
Emphasizing the sector’s shift towards modern technology and innovation, PM Modi mentioned schemes like Sagar Mitra aimed at ensuring that the benefits of this transformation reach fisher folk households. He praised the strong presence of the Dheevara Sabha at the event, expressing confidence in the community’s continued role in propelling Kerala’s economic and social advancement.
