Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that a developed Kerala is vital to achieving a developed India, emphasizing the Union government’s commitment to supporting the people of Kerala. The Prime Minister made these remarks while in Thiruvananthapuram on Friday, January 23, 2026.
New Rail Lines and Economic Initiatives
During his visit, Mr. Modi flagged off four new trains – three Amrit Bharat Express trains and one passenger train – to enhance rail connectivity within Kerala. He noted that these improvements will benefit both ease of travel and the state’s tourism sector, with the new Guruvayur-Thrissur passenger train specifically aiding pilgrims. Alongside the rail projects, various developmental initiatives across multiple sectors were launched.
The Prime Minister highlighted efforts to transform Thiruvananthapuram into a major start-up hub. A key component of the day’s announcements was the launch of the PM SVANidhi Credit Card scheme in Kerala, designed to provide financial assistance to street vendors, hawkers, and those working on footpaths nationwide.
Expanding Financial Access for the Vulnerable
Mr. Modi underscored the Union government’s broader efforts to improve access to banking for marginalized communities. He stated that over the past 11 years, a significant push has been made to connect citizens to the banking system, enabling access to loans for the poor, SC, ST, OBC communities, women, and fishermen, often with the government acting as a guarantor. He specifically noted the transformation of conditions for street vendors through the PM SVANidhi Scheme, allowing them access to credit previously unavailable.
In addition to the financial initiatives, a new CSIR Innovation Hub and a Radio Surgery Centre at a medical college hospital were inaugurated, aiming to position Kerala as a center for science, innovation, and healthcare.
State Government Response
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan expressed gratitude for the projects approved by the Prime Minister and voiced hope that further “genuine demands” from Kerala would be addressed promptly. He indicated confidence that the projects would be implemented efficiently.
The newly launched trains – the Thiruvananthapuram-Tambaram, Nagercoil-Mangaluru, Thiruvananthapuram-Charlappalli Amrit Bharat Express trains, and the Thrissur-Guruvayur Passenger Train – began their inaugural journeys following the ceremony.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the primary focus of Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Kerala?
The primary focus was on strengthening Kerala’s infrastructure, particularly rail connectivity, and launching initiatives to support the economic empowerment of vulnerable populations, such as street vendors.
How many houses have been constructed for the poor in Kerala under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana?
Nearly 1.25 lakh urban poor families in Kerala have received permanent houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, as of January 23, 2026.
What is the PM SVANidhi Credit Card scheme intended to achieve?
The PM SVANidhi Credit Card scheme aims to provide financial assistance to street vendors, hawkers, and those working on footpaths across the country, enabling them to access credit for their businesses.
Will these new initiatives lead to further economic development in Kerala, and how might the state leverage these investments to attract further innovation and growth?
