PM Modi lauds fishermen at Akhila Kerala Dheevara Sabha

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday addressed a public rally in Kochi while participating in the Golden Jubilee Sammelan of the Akhila Kerala Dheevara Sabha, where he lauded the contributions of the fishing community and highlighted key initiatives taken for their welfare.
Beginning his address in Malayalam, the Prime Minister described the event as a historic moment as the organisation marked its 50th anniversary. He congratulated members of the fishermen community for their decades of service and commitment.“Today we are all witnessing a historic occasion. The Akhil Kerala Dheevara Sabha is celebrating its 50th anniversary. For the past 50 years, this organisation has been continuously working to protect the rights of the fishermen community,” Modi said.He praised the dedication and spirit of service shown by the community and extended greetings to fishermen across Kerala, also referred to as Keralam.
Referring to the Centre’s decision to approve the proposal to change the state’s name from Kerala to Keralam, the Prime Minister said the move fulfilled a long-standing demand of the people of the state.“Today, as I stand among you, there is a sense of joy for the entire state. The long wait of my Malayali brothers and sisters has come to an end. You have all been demanding for years that Kerala’s name be changed to Keralam. Our BJP-led NDA government at the Centre has approved this proposal,” he said.

#WATCH | Kochi, Kerala | Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, "Today, as I stand among you, there is a sense of joy for the entire state. The long wait of my Malayali brothers and sisters has come to an end. You have all been demanding for years that Kerala's name be changed to… https://t.co/V758L0Qi1f pic.twitter.com/dQXbZQYabW

— ANI (@ANI) March 11, 2026

Modi also appreciated the role played by fishermen during the devastating 2018 Kerala floods, noting that their courage and selfless service were remembered across the country.
“During the devastating floods in Keralam, the entire country witnessed the efforts of the fisherman community. You rescued people who were trapped and delivered essential supplies to those in need. The nation remembers the courage, service and dedication of the fisherman community with respect,” he said.Highlighting measures taken for the safety of fishermen, the Prime Minister said more than 4,500 satellite-based transponders had been installed in fishing boats to improve communication and ensure safety at sea.
The Golden Jubilee Sammelan brought together members of the fishing community and representatives of the organisation to celebrate five decades of the Akhila Kerala Dheevara Sabha’s work in safeguarding the interests and welfare of fishermen in the state.