PM Modi Kicks Off BJP's Southern Campaign with Development Focus
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to launch the Bharatiya Janata Party's election campaign in Kerala and Tamil Nadu today, marking a significant political move in the two poll-bound southern states. The Prime Minister's visit combines official development initiatives with political outreach, reflecting a strategic approach ahead of the crucial Assembly elections scheduled for April this year.
Thiruvananthapuram: Development Projects and Roadshow
In Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, PM Modi will begin his day with an official program focused on launching and laying foundation stones for multiple development projects. At approximately 10:45 AM, he will inaugurate, lay foundation stones, and flag off various initiatives that span critical sectors such as rail connectivity, urban livelihoods, science and innovation, citizen-centric services, and advanced healthcare. According to an official statement, these projects underscore the Prime Minister's emphasis on inclusive growth, technological advancement, and enhancing the quality of life for citizens.
Before the project inaugurations, PM Modi is expected to hold a vibrant roadshow in Thiruvananthapuram. The roadshow will commence from the Thiruvananthapuram airport and traverse key stretches of the city, culminating at Putharikandam Maidan. This public engagement is seen as a way to connect directly with voters and build momentum for the BJP's campaign.
Boost to Rail Connectivity with New Train Services
A highlight of the visit is the flagging off of four new train services, which include three Amrit Bharat Express trains and one passenger train. The specific services are:
- Nagercoil-Mangaluru Amrit Bharat Express
- Thiruvananthapuram-Tambaram Amrit Bharat Express
- Thiruvananthapuram-Charlapalli Amrit Bharat Express
- A new passenger train between Thrissur and Guruvayur
The official statement highlights that these new services will significantly enhance long-distance and regional connectivity across Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh. By making travel more affordable, safe, and time-bound, the improved connectivity is expected to provide a strong impetus to tourism, trade, education, employment, and cultural exchange in the region.
Political Context in Kerala
PM Modi's visit to Kerala comes shortly after the BJP achieved a historic victory in the Thiruvananthapuram Municipal Corporation election last month. The party won 50 out of 101 seats and secured its first Mayor in the civic body, marking a notable political breakthrough in the state. This success adds momentum to the BJP's campaign as it aims to make inroads in Kerala's upcoming Assembly elections.
Moving to Tamil Nadu for NDA Rally
From Kerala, PM Modi will travel to Tamil Nadu, another poll-bound state, to launch the National Democratic Alliance's (NDA) election campaign. The rally is scheduled in suburban Madurathakam and is being viewed as the BJP's first major show of strength in Tamil Nadu. Ahead of the Prime Minister's visit, senior BJP leader and Tamil Nadu election in-charge Piyush Goyal held a series of meetings with allies to ensure unity within the NDA coalition.
The party has successfully garnered support from key allies, including AMMK general secretary T T V Dhinakaran and the PMK Anbumani faction. Other allies such as G K Vasan-led TMC, T R Paarivendhar-led Indhiya Jananayaga Katchi, A C Shanmugam of New Justice Party, and B John Pandian of Tamizhaga Makkal Munnetra Kazhagam have also reiterated their backing for the NDA.
Logistics and Expectations for the Tamil Nadu Rally
PM Modi will arrive at the Chennai airport from Thiruvananthapuram and then proceed to Maduranthakam by helicopter. From there, he will travel by road to address the rally at 3 PM. The Prime Minister is scheduled to leave Maduranthakam by helicopter at 4:30 PM, return to Chennai airport, and depart for the national capital around 5 PM.
Union Minister L Murugan, who reviewed the arrangements for Modi's tightly-scheduled three-hour visit under high security, stated, "The Prime Minister will address the NDA public meeting at Madhuranthaam, Chengalpattu, to mark the beginning of NDA's election campaign in Tamil Nadu."
AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami, after meeting Piyush Goyal, expressed optimism, saying, "PM Modi's rally in Madhuranthakam on Friday will be a big turning point. Around five lakh people are expected to attend." This underscores the high stakes and anticipated impact of the event as Tamil Nadu prepares to elect a new assembly in April.
The Prime Minister's dual-state visit blends development initiatives with political strategy, aiming to strengthen the BJP's presence in southern India while addressing key infrastructure and connectivity needs. With both Kerala and Tamil Nadu heading to the polls soon, this campaign kickoff is poised to set the tone for the upcoming electoral battles.
