Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, is on an official visit to Kerala today, January 23, 2026, where he is scheduled to inaugurate and lay the foundation for a series of significant development initiatives in the state capital, Thiruvananthapuram. The visit reflects the central government’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure, strengthening urban livelihoods, and expanding access to modern amenities across Kerala.
One of the key components of the Prime Minister’s programme is a major boost to rail connectivity. Mr. Modi will flag off four new train services, including three Amrit Bharat Express trains and a new passenger train between Thrissur and Guruvayur. These rail links are expected to enhance connectivity not only within Kerala but also with neighbouring states such as Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana — promoting tourism, education, trade and employment opportunities for the region.
In addition to transportation upgrades, the Prime Minister will launch urban livelihood initiatives, including the nationwide rollout of the PM SVANidhi Credit Card, an interest-free, UPI-linked revolving credit facility designed to provide instant liquidity and help street vendors build formal credit histories. Mr. Modi is also expected to disburse SVANidhi loans to around one lakh beneficiaries, with many recipients from Kerala’s informal sector.
The visit also focusses on science, innovation and healthcare. A foundation stone will be laid for the CSIR–NIIST Innovation, Technology and Entrepreneurship Hub in Thiruvananthapuram — a centre aiming to integrate traditional knowledge systems like Ayurveda with modern biotechnology and support startup activity. A state-of-the-art Radiosurgery Centre at the Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute of Medical Sciences and Technology will also be initiated, enhancing advanced healthcare services in the state.
Mr. Modi’s programme highlights government efforts to combine infrastructure development with economic inclusion and advanced technology investment, setting the tone for Kerala’s growth in the coming years.
News as reported
