“Today's Event Will Keep Many Awake Tonight,” Says PM Modi at Vizhinjam Port Inauguration – Here's Why

Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala – Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the much-awaited Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport in Kerala today, marking a significant milestone in India's maritime infrastructure. The launch ceremony witnessed the presence of Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, senior leaders, and prominent industrialists, including Gautam Adani.

Calling it a turning point for India’s shipping and logistics sector, PM Modi emphasized how this deepwater port will transform coastal trade and reduce dependence on foreign ports.

A Bold Statement from PM Modi

Addressing the gathering from the inauguration stage, PM Modi stirred political waters with a pointed remark. He said,
"Our Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan is a strong pillar of the INDIA alliance. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor is also present here. Today’s event will surely keep many people awake tonight."

The statement drew applause from the audience and was seen as a subtle jab at political rivals, hinting at the scale and future impact of the Vizhinjam Port on the region’s economy and politics.

Key Features of the Vizhinjam Port

• The port is being developed at a cost of ₹8,900 crore.
• Once operational, it will be capable of handling some of the largest cargo ships in the world.
• This seaport is part of India’s Sagarmala Project, aimed at boosting port connectivity and infrastructure nationwide.
• Developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, the port project is being executed in collaboration with Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd. (APSEZ).

According to PM Modi, “Currently, around 75% of India’s transshipment cargo is handled by ports outside the country, leading to significant financial losses. With Vizhinjam Port, this will change. Now, Indian money will stay in India. The funds that were being spent overseas will generate jobs and opportunities for the people of Kerala.”

Political and Economic Impact

PM Modi’s strong emphasis on the strategic importance of the port highlights not only its economic benefits but also the emerging political narrative. With Kerala being a crucial state for opposition parties, such a massive central government initiative sends a clear message.

The Prime Minister's remark about the event disrupting the sleep of many was interpreted as a direct nudge toward his political opponents—suggesting that this development project may reshape voter sentiment in the region.

Adani Group’s Involvement

Billionaire industrialist Gautam Adani, chairman of the Adani Group, was also present at the ceremony. The Adani Group, through APSEZ, is playing a key role in building and managing the port infrastructure.

Adani praised the central government’s commitment to enhancing India’s global trade capabilities and thanked PM Modi for his visionary leadership in driving forward such transformative projects.

The Vision of Sagarmala

The Sagarmala Project, led by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, focuses on modernizing India's ports, improving connectivity, and making India a global maritime hub. Vizhinjam is a flagship example of this mission.

According to PM Modi, “The central government, in coordination with state governments, has strengthened the country’s port infrastructure and significantly improved port connectivity.”

Final Thoughts

The inauguration of Vizhinjam Port is more than just a ceremonial event—it symbolizes India's ambition to become self-reliant in maritime logistics, reduce dependency on foreign ports, and promote economic growth through world-class infrastructure.

With its strategic location, deep natural draft, and capacity to host ultra-large container vessels, Vizhinjam Port is poised to become a game-changer for India’s global shipping footprint.