Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs and Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri George Kurian highlighted the transformative developmental strides made under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi over the past 11 years while addressing a press conference at Kavaratti Island, UT of Lakshadweep.

Shri Kurian said that the Modi Government’s tenure is being written in golden letters in the annals of India’s history, marking a golden era of “Sankalp Se Siddhi” towards a Developed and Self-Reliant India. He emphasised that this journey of transformation has been made possible through the collective efforts, dreams, and determination of 140 crore Indians, steered by the Prime Minister’s resolute vision.

Fisheries: Backbone of Lakshadweep’s Economy

Recognizing fisheries as a vital sector and lifeline for Lakshadweep, Shri Kurian shared that the UT’s waters hold an annual fish catch potential of 1 lakh MT. Further, the Centre has approved Rs. 14.06 crore under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) for the Union Territory of Lakshwadeep. Lakshadweep has been designated as a Seaweed Cluster also.

Education and Healthcare: Foundations of Social Welfare

The Minister commended the 91.65% literacy rate in Lakshadweep and the zero school dropout rate. Eleven schools have been selected under the PM SHRI scheme, with high-speed internet, computer labs, and digital libraries enhancing learning experiences.

In the healthcare sector:

Modern Infrastructure: Ports, Jetties and Roads

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways (MoPSW) has undertaken major infrastructure upgrades:

Eco-Tourism and Green Energy

Eco-tourism is getting a major boost with three Water Villa Projects being developed in Minicoy, Kadmat, and Suheli, in consultation with NITI Aayog, with a combined investment of ₹810 crore. Weekly cruise liner operations are also underway, connecting Mumbai, Kochi, Agatti, and Thinnakara.

To reduce dependence on diesel, Lakshadweep is transitioning to renewable energy:

Water Security and Basic Amenities

To ensure access to drinking water:

National Achievements Under PM Modi’s Leadership

Shri Kurian reiterated the national progress made during the Amrit Kaal, including:

Empowering Women: Nari Shakti Rising

The Nari Shakti Vandan Act guarantees 33% reservation for women in legislatures. Other initiatives like MUDRA Yojana, Maternity Benefit Scheme, and 90 lakh self-help groups are transforming the lives of Indian women. Women are now permanently serving in the armed forces, including on the Line of Control, and leading in fields like STEM and aviation.

A New Era of Possibilities

Shri Kurian concluded:

“Modi Hai Toh Mumkin Hai is not just a slogan — it’s a proven reality. Politics is no longer about promises, but performance.”

-SK-

Read this release in: Malayalam

George Press Release