Thiruvananthapuram: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the PM SVANidhi Credit Card Scheme in the state capital on Friday. Addressing a large gathering, the Prime Minister stated that prioritizing the economic stability of the working class is a key pillar of his government’s policy. At a public welfare and infrastructure development event, the Prime Minister inaugurated the credit card scheme and distributed loans to one lakh beneficiaries.
He emphasized that this initiative has freed street vendors and hawkers from the clutches of usurers (moneylenders who charge high interest). PM Modi said, “For the first time in their lives, street vendors have access to formal banking credit. Millions have already benefited from this change.” He further stated that such schemes are crucial in creating self-employment opportunities. The Prime Minister also detailed the Central Government’s achievements in the field of social welfare. He specifically mentioned the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY). He explained that over 40 million houses have been built across the country to provide housing to the homeless, of which over 10 million have been given to the urban poor. He emphasized that Kerala has been a major beneficiary of this scheme, with nearly 2.5 million urban residents in the state having secured safe housing.
Talking about issues related to the daily lives of the middle class and the poor, Modi mentioned the relief provided by the PM Surya Ghar Free Electricity Scheme and the health protection provided by Ayushman Bharat, which provides free treatment up to ₹5 lakh annually. He also emphasized the recent income tax reforms, particularly the exemption on annual incomes up to ₹12 lakh, which he described as a major relief for Kerala’s salaried middle class.
Focus on innovation and infrastructure
Towards modernizing the state’s economy, the central government announced plans to transform Thiruvananthapuram into a major startup hub. The Prime Minister laid the foundation stone for the CSIR-NIIST Innovation, Technology, and Entrepreneurship Hub. This project is expected to accelerate the region’s scientific and technological progress.
Promoting the state’s connectivity, PM Modi flagged off three Amrit Bharat Express trains at a ceremony held at the Puthrikandam grounds. He reiterated the crucial role of cities in the journey towards a “developed India,” emphasizing that the central government has been investing heavily in urban infrastructure over the past 11 years. PM Modi’s Road Show
The Prime Minister also held a road show. After being welcomed at the airport by Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Modi proceeded in an open vehicle from Overbridge Road to the venue (300 meters). Thousands of BJP workers and the public gathered behind roadside barricades, showering him with flowers and chanting slogans.
Targeting Opposition Parties
Prior to the event, the Prime Minister took to social media to praise the BJP’s historic performance in the recent municipal elections and stated that Thiruvananthapuram had “made history.” He targeted the state’s ruling and opposition parties, remarking that Kerala was now eager to break free from the “fixed match” of the LDF-UDF.
Tight Security Arrangements
Tight security arrangements were in place throughout the city during the Prime Minister’s visit. Traffic restrictions and a drone flying ban were in place in key areas from the airport to Kazhakoottam. Addressing the public gathering, which was also attended by Union Minister and Thiruvananthapuram Mayor V.V. Rajesh (whom Modi described as his old friend), the Prime Minister concluded by assuring the central government’s continued partnership in Kerala’s development journey.
