In big push for 2024 polls, PM Modi holds massive roadshow in Kerala's Kochi, to flag off Vande Bharat Express

Visuals from the event showed PM Modi, surrounded by security personnel, walking the road lined with cheering supporters. This was a departure from his usual practice of riding an open-top vehicle.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">People from all walks of life came to shower their blessings in Kochi. Here are some glimpses. <a href="https://t.co/91CKLQPcyI">pic.twitter.com/91CKLQPcyI</a></p>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1650504399607701506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Dressed in traditional Kerala attire, PM Modi was seen waving to people on both sides of the 2-km route from the INS Garuda naval air station to the venue of a youth conclave. He landed at the naval air station after 5 pm.

High security was sounded in the entire area with thousands of police personnel deployed to ensure the Prime Minister's safety.

After walking for over 15 minutes, he was led to a following SUV by his security personnel.

Later, addressing "Yuvam 2023" PM Modi spoke of the big infrastructure changes in Kerala brought about by the Central government.

"While the previous governments indulged in corruption in every sector, the BJP government is giving opportunities to the youth in every sector. Through vocal for local, we are encouraging local products, we have given opportunities to the youth in space and defence. We have increased manufacturing and exports in the country," he said.

"Today, it's being said that the 21st century is India's century. India has a treasure of youth power. Earlier, people used to think that nothing will change in India. However, today our country can change the entire world. Today's Aatmanirbhar India talks about Digital India, the PM said.

"From "Fragile 5", Inda has now become the "Fastest growing economy". "You all did this. Which is why I trust the youth of this country with this responsibility," he added.

The BJP expects the youth programme to be a game-changer in Kerala politics.

The Prime Minister's move to walk during the roadshow in Kerala is seen as a show of confidence in a state where his party is hoping to make huge inroads ahead of next year's general election.

Over the last few months, the BJP has been aggressively focused on Kerala, not only announcing multiple infrastructure projects but also courting the state's Christian and Muslim communities, which have influence over a chunk of seats.

During his visit, PM Modi will be attending several programmes, including flagging off a Vande Bharat Express.

On Tuesday, he will lay the foundation for the country's first Digital Science Park. The Rs-1,500-crore project will be a multidisciplinary cluster-based interactive-innovation zone focused on digital technologies and is expected to be completed in two years.