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Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Rs 88 billion Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport in Kerala, marking a significant leap in India鈥檚 maritime infrastructure. Speaking at the event, which coincided with the birth anniversary of Adi Shankaracharya, Modi paid tribute to the spiritual leader鈥檚 unifying contributions and underscored Kerala鈥檚 historical role in India鈥檚 maritime prosperity.Modi emphasised that the Vizhinjam port, India鈥檚 first dedicated container transshipment hub, will triple its capacity in the coming years, allowing India to retain revenues previously lost to foreign ports. Highlighting Kerala鈥檚 strategic location along one of the world鈥檚 busiest sea routes, he noted that the port will enhance the nation鈥檚 role in global trade, generate economic opportunities for Kerala, and create thousands of new jobs.Reviewing the last decade, Modi detailed the government鈥檚 port reforms under Sagarmala and PM Gati Shakti, which have boosted efficiency, reduced ship turnaround times by 30%, and doubled India鈥檚 port capacity. He stressed that under the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision, India aims to become a major global shipbuilding player, with Kochi poised as a shipbuilding and repair cluster.Modi also highlighted the role of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) in modernising India鈥檚 ports, noting that investments have made the sector future-ready. He reaffirmed the government鈥檚 commitment to Kerala鈥檚 development through infrastructure projects, Vande Bharat trains, and welfare schemes, particularly for fishermen under the Blue Revolution and Matsya Sampada Yojana.Addressing recent global grief over Pope Francis鈥檚 passing, Modi paid tribute to his legacy of service and inclusivity, recalling their personal meetings. He concluded with confidence in Kerala鈥檚 future as a major hub for global maritime trade, asserting that India鈥檚 maritime sector is set to reach new heights with continued government and private sector collaboration.The event was attended by Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, and Union Ministers including Suresh Prabhu and George Kurien.(PIB)