Kochin: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Kerala after inaugurating a host of projects in Tamil Nadu. In the event in Kochi, he inaugurated the Propylene Derivatives Petrochemical complex of Kochi Refinery and 4 other projects. ALSO READ | Jammu Police Arrest Three Suspects In Probe Over Foiled IED Blast, Reveal Details Of Terror Plan


Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan welcomed PM Narendra Modi by draping a shawl and presenting a memento to him.


Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan also graced the event and welcomed the announcement of development projects by saying "This is a happy occasion for us Keralites. A handful of projects are coming to life in our state today. While some being dedicated to the nation, foundation stone is being laid for others. Both state and central govt are working together in all these projects".


Among the projects were the dedication of BPCL's Rs 6,000-crore propylene derivatives petrochemicals project to the nation; the launch of Sagarika, the Cochin Port's new Rs 25 crore international cruise terminal; laying the foundation stone for Cochin Port's reconstruction of the south coal berth and a new knowledge center of Cochin Shipyard Ltd Vigyana Sagar.


After inaugurating the PDP complex, Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his address by saying "We have gathered here to celebrate the development of Kerala and India. The works being inaugurated today cover a wide range of sectors. They will energize the growth trajectory of India".


Elaborating about the Propylene Derivatives Petrochemical complex of Kochi Refinery, he said that "this project will help strengthen our journey towards being Atmanirbhar. A wide range of industries would gain employment opportunities".


ALSO READ | PM Modi Hands Over 'Made In India' Arjun Tank To Army, Pays Tribute To Pulwama Martyrs In Chennai


"Through the national infrastructure pipeline, Rs 110 lakh crores being invested. In this, special attention is being given to coastal parts, the Northeast & mountain areas. Today, India is embarking on an ambitious program of broadband connectivity to every village," he added as announced the plan to bring broadband to all rural areas of the nation.


The Prime Minister urged entrepreneurs to invest in local projects as he talked about Indians, instead of going abroad, opting for Indian destinations for traveling to support the vision of 'Vocal For Local'.


"Indians working in the Gulf should know that the full support of the government is there to ensure their welfare," he said.


"India is devoting topmost importance to developing our blue economy. Our vision and work in include improving infrastructure, sustainable coastal development, coastal connectivity and more," the Prime Minister added.


After his programme, Modi attended the core committee meeting of the state BJP unit and then returned to the national capital.