Prime minister Narendra Modi said on Monday (April 24) that India's 'Yuva Shakti' is the driving force behind our country's development journey, after holding a mega roadshow in Kochi dressed in traditional Kerala attire. PM Modi began his road show on foot, waving to the crowds gathered on both sides of the road along the route, which was heavily guarded. Speaking at the 'Yuvam Conclave', the PM emphasised the strength and capabilities of the youth of the country.
"Have faith in the youth, who are instrumental in transforming India into one of the fastest growing economies in the world," PM Modi said. "There was a time when India was one of the Fragile Five. However, we are now known as the fastest-growing economy. You, the youth, are responsible for making this possible. That is why I have the most faith in the country's youth," he was quoted as saying by PTI.
"When India is walking ahead with the resolution of New India, when India is shouldering global responsibilities, the youth of the country and Kerala has stepped forward to lead India's development journey," the PM said, expressing his delight.
PM Modi declared a strike against the Pinarayi Vijayan government, saying that, unlike other BJP-ruled states, Kerala is being deprived of youth-centric employment opportunities. He added, "In all BJP-ruled states, the drive to provide Govt jobs to the youth is going on rapidly. But the Kerala government's focus is not on the youth's employment or self-employment. I've been told that in Kerala, neither the Rojgar Mela is held nor is much attention paid to recruitment for Govt jobs. Youth of the state can't forget such attitude of the state government."
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PM Modi Holds Mega Roadshow In Kochi:
Earlier in the day, prime minister Narendra Modi, who arrived in Kerala for a two-day visit, held a mega roadshow in Kochi. PM Modi walked through the streets of Kochi dressed in traditional Kerala attire. People lined up on both sides of the street to cheer on the Prime Minister. They also showered him with flower petals. PM Modi was also seen shaking people's hands. After more than 15 minutes of walking, security personnel escorted him to an SUV.
The roadshow was unlike the PM's previous roadshows, where he usually rides in an open-top vehicle. PM Modi's roadshow in Kerala is being interpreted as a show of strength in the southern state, where the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is hoping to make inroads ahead of the general elections next year.
Prime minister Narendra Modi will launch the country's first water metro service on Tuesday, connecting Kochi's islands to the mainland. He will also take part in a number of other programmes and meet with senior church leaders.