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The Union Cabinet has approved the renaming of Kerala to 'Keralam', a decision that Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated by congratulating the citizens of Kerala, stating that the state has finally received its rightful name. While addressing the golden jubilee celebrations of the All Kerala Fishermen's Association, Modi praised the fishing community of the state. He expressed, 'As I stand here today, there is a joyous atmosphere across the state. The long wait for my Malayali brothers and sisters has come to an end. You have been advocating for the name change to 'Keralam' for years, and our NDA government has now approved this proposal. I can see the happiness on your faces. This beautiful state has received its rightful name in accordance with Malayali culture.'

On February 24, the Union Cabinet sanctioned the proposal to rename Kerala to Keralam. The Kerala Assembly had passed a resolution for this name change in June 2024. Modi, while commending the efforts of the All Kerala Fishermen's Association, remarked, 'Today, we witness a historic moment. The All Kerala Fishermen's Association is celebrating its 50th anniversary. This organization has been working for the rights of the fishing community. I extend my congratulations to all fishermen of Keralam and the members of the All Kerala Fishermen's Association. It was mentioned that the Prime Minister has come to bless, but for me, the public is akin to God, and I have come to seek their blessings.'

He further noted that during his recent visit to Kerala, he engaged in discussions with members of the All Kerala Fishermen's Association. He highlighted that the association exemplifies a remarkable balance between life, employment, progress, and nature. 'You embody Indian philosophy and thought. While the world views water, rivers, and oceans as resources, the fishing community regards the oceans as their 'Amma' (mother),' he stated. Criticizing the LDF and UDF, he accused previous governments of neglecting the fishing community.

Modi asserted that past administrations had overlooked the fishing community for decades. However, he emphasized that the NDA government is making strides towards progress and unlocking their unlimited potential. 'Our government has recognized the capabilities of the fishing community and its role in the blue economy. The BJP-NDA government has established a separate ministry for fisheries. Numerous initiatives have been taken to bring them into the mainstream. Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, approximately ₹1400 crores have been allocated for Kerala, which is why the fishing sector in Kerala is advancing rapidly.'