PM Modi Arrives in Kochi to Unveil Major Projects and Launch NDA's Election Drive

Key Takeaways

PM Modi's visit marks the launch of critical infrastructure initiatives.

The exclusion of State Minister Riyas has sparked political controversy.

Key projects include major expansions of national highways in Kerala.

The event serves as a kickoff for the NDA's electoral campaign in the state.

The Left Democratic Front has expressed strong criticism regarding the protocol breach.

Kochi, March 11 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi has touched down in Kochi on Wednesday, marking the commencement of significant development initiatives while also launching the NDA's electoral campaign in Kerala.

His arrival at Cochin International Airport was recorded at approximately 11:35 a.m.

The Prime Minister's agenda encompasses the inauguration of infrastructure projects valued in the thousands of crores, alongside a political rally for the National Democratic Alliance as the Assembly elections approach.

Additionally, PM Modi is set to host a road show in Kaloor. His visit to the state will conclude as he departs for Tamil Nadu around 3 p.m.

However, an official function will proceed without the participation of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and other high-ranking state officials, following controversy surrounding the exclusion of State Public Works Minister P. A. Mohammed Riyas from the inauguration event.

Minister Riyas, who oversees roads and highways in the state, reportedly did not receive an invitation.

The projects being unveiled include the six-lane expansion of the Thalappady–Chengala section of National Highway 66 and the six-lane Vengalam–Ramanattukara stretch of the Kozhikode bypass, both integral to the ongoing expansion of Kerala's national highway network.

This exclusion has drawn significant criticism from the ruling Left Democratic Front, which deems it a violation of established norms.

Typically, the state minister responsible for the relevant department is invited to such events.

State General Education Minister V. Sivankutty remarked on the unprecedented nature of this situation.

"It is customary for the state minister in charge to be present. It is surprising that the state BJP president has received an invitation instead. If that is the case, leaders from other political factions should also have been included," he stated.

Sivankutty further asserted that this exclusion is unprecedented and accused the BJP of attempting to claim sole credit for projects that have been executed collaboratively with the state government.

"This seems to be a tactic by the BJP to monopolize recognition for these initiatives. It poses a challenge to the people of Kerala," he concluded.

Point of View

PM Modi's visit to Kochi is a pivotal moment for the NDA as it prepares for the upcoming elections in Kerala. The controversy surrounding the exclusion of a state minister highlights underlying tensions in state politics, making this event a focal point for both development and political strategy.

NationPress

29 Jun 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of PM Modi's visit to Kochi?

PM Modi's visit aims to launch major development projects and initiate the NDA's election campaign in Kerala.

What projects will be inaugurated during the visit?

The projects include significant expansions of National Highway 66 and the Kozhikode bypass.

Why was Minister P.A. Mohammed Riyas excluded from the event?

Minister Riyas was reportedly not invited, leading to criticism from the ruling Left Democratic Front.

What was the reaction of the Left Democratic Front to the exclusion?

The Left Democratic Front criticized the exclusion as a violation of established norms and an attempt by the BJP to claim sole credit for collaborative projects.

When did PM Modi arrive in Kochi?

PM Modi arrived at Cochin International Airport around 11:35 a.m. on March 11.