The Vizhinjam International Seaport, inaugurated yesterday by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is not just a milestone in Kerala's development history but also a significant marker in India’s progress. This massive project, which promises a transformative shift in Kerala’s development trajectory, has opened new windows of opportunity through its successful launch. As India’s largest transshipment terminal, Vizhinjam will now shine in history as a gateway to development for both Kerala and the nation. The Prime Minister, while commissioning the port, remarked that Vizhinjam stands as a model for a new era of development. He emphasised that this is also the beginning of a political culture centred around development.

The Prime Minister underlined that the slogan “Together, let’s build a developed Kerala” is a call to unite for the state’s growth, instead of following narrow political opposition. His inaugural address, which he began in Malayalam, concluded with the proud slogan, “Jai Kerala, Jai Bharat.” The commissioning of Vizhinjam port was made possible through the joint efforts of the central and state governments. The Modi administration offered unwavering support for the project. The Adani Group, which took up the port’s construction, swiftly completed its first phase — a feat worthy of much praise. The Pinarayi Vijayan government also demonstrated exemplary leadership in overcoming challenges related to the port’s development.

The realisation of Vizhinjam port is due in no small part to leaders like K. Karunakaran, E.K. Nayanar, A.K. Antony, V.S. Achuthanandan, Oommen Chandy, M.V. Raghavan, Pinarayi Vijayan, and V.N. Vasavan. It is our duty to remember and acknowledge all of them.

Fighting over credit will only harm the pride and unity of our land. The success of Vizhinjam should be celebrated as a collective victory for all of Kerala. As the Chief Minister rightly said, the credit belongs to the state. It is also important for everyone to realise that development cannot proceed without private sector participation. Prime Minister Modi also appreciated Minister V.N. Vasavan’s mention of the Adani Group as a government partner during his welcome speech. The same approach taken for this port project should be followed in the development of the Thiruvananthapuram Airport as well. With the full completion expected by 2028, Vizhinjam is set to become the number one port in the world. Even now, it has secured a leading position among major international ports.

As Kerala’s dream was realised yesterday, we take great pride in having played a part in it. When various attempts and agitations were made to sabotage the Vizhinjam port project due to the adverse influences of international ports, we took a firm stand against all of them and revealed the facts one by one. We dismantled those deceptions with a vision that Kerala needs development, not controversies. When efforts were made to mislead the local people, we revealed the hidden interests behind those actions. From the time Vizhinjam was just an idea, we presented the potential benefits the port would bring once it became a reality. Now, as the port is commissioned, we wholeheartedly share in the joy of the state. When this is finally commissioned, we are also overjoyed to be part of this momentous occasion.