Empowering Alappuzha: A Candid Conversation with Shobha Surendran
MV Correspondent
In the heart of Kerala, amidst its scenic coastal vistas and vibrant communities, lies the constituency of Alappuzha—a land brimming with potential yet grappling with pressing issues. In this exclusive interview, we delve into the vision and strategies of NDA candidate Shobha Surendran, who aspires to lead this constituency into a new era of progress and prosperity.
You talk a lot about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Nari Shakti: We read that one of the hits in this election is your poll promise of 25,000 scholarships to girls. Can you shed some light on it?
Certainly. For the first time in Kerala’s electoral history, a candidate has released a comprehensive women’s manifesto centered around three key pillars: women’s representation, empowerment, and safety. Recognizing the crucial role education plays in empowering young women, I have devised a master plan to support girls in pursuing their academic aspirations. Having personally experienced financial hardships during my own education, I am deeply committed to ensuring that no girl in my constituency faces similar obstacles. Therefore, I am proud to introduce the Heera Ben Modi scholarship initiative. By leveraging various resources including the PM-YASASVI scheme, central government funds, and CSR funds, this initiative aims to provide ₹25,000 scholarships to each girl who completes 12th standard and enrolls in college. This scholarship not only offers financial assistance but also serves as a beacon of hope, encouraging young girls to pursue higher education and realize their full potential.
What’s your plan or how are you planning to address Coastal issues and what solutions do you have?
Kerala boasts 590km of coastline, making fisheries a cornerstone of its economy. However, the neglect of fishermen during the 65 years of state rule by both Congress and CPI(M) is undeniable. Recognizing the critical importance of this sector, Prime Minister Modi took proactive steps by establishing a Ministry for Fisheries, marking a significant turning point. Since 2015, the Modi government's initiatives have attracted over ₹35,000 crore in investments to India, with substantial support extended through the PMMSY to fishermen. The challenges faced by coastal communities, including storms, erosion, landslides, and sea-level rise, are daunting. Surprisingly, state governments in Kerala have failed to implement essential preventive measures like "Pulimutt" or other mechanisms to address these issues. In response, my plan involves comprehensive strategies aimed at safeguarding coastal regions and addressing the concerns of fishermen.
We heard that you were talking about a Housing project for the homeless, could you please explain?
Absolutely. The issue of housing insecurity hits close to home for me, as I personally experienced it while growing up in a house with inadequate security measures. Recognizing the dire need for action, Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji has already initiated the provision of more than 10,000 homes in Alappuzha alone. However, the incumbent CPI(M) MP from Alappuzha has displayed a lack of commitment towards securing homes for the underprivileged. Instead of prioritizing the needs of the poor, the focus has been diverted towards supporting controversial entities like the radicals-Popular Front during its ban. In response to this neglect, I have made a solemn promise to the people of Alappuzha: within three years of assuming office as Alappuzha’s MP, I will ensure that not a single person in our constituency remains homeless. This commitment underscores my unwavering dedication to serving the community and addressing the pressing issue of homelessness.
Your constituency has a long coastal area and is predominantly from the Christian community. How are you going to address their concerns?
As a true nationalist and secular individual, I enjoy the support from the Christian community and people of all other communities. I recently had the privilege of engaging in inspiring and heartwarming meetings with esteemed bishops across Kerala. During my visit last Saturday, on April 20, 2024, I sought their blessings and support while deeply understanding their concerns.
One memorable encounter was with Mar Joseph Kariyil, the Bishop Emeritus of the Kochi Latin Diocese, and Rt. Rev. Monsignor Shyju Pariyathussery, who oversees the Apostolic administration of the Diocese. In a moment filled with reverence and promise, the venerable Bishop bestowed his divine blessings upon me, emphasizing the importance of resolute, incorruptible, and transparent leadership. During our discussions, the Bishop expressed grave concerns about the surge of terrorist activities in coastal regions and the collusion between anti-national elements and the drug trade, which threaten the unity and integrity of our nation. I wholeheartedly resonated with these concerns and pledged my unwavering support to address them. Furthermore, the Bishop shared profound insights into the transformation of India into "Shresht Bharat," highlighting the pivotal role of uplifting coastal communities.
Additionally, I was warmly welcomed by Major Archbishop Rev Fr Raphel Thattil of Kochi, who fondly recounted his recent pleasant meeting with our esteemed Prime Minister Modi. Similarly, I had the opportunity to exchange my vision for this election with Varappuzha Archbishop Mar Joseph Kalathiparambil. I am immensely grateful for the support and blessings extended to me by these respected religious leaders.
I can assure you that as a BJP MP, my relentless fight for the nation will always be compassionate and focused on uplifting the downtrodden. The encouragement and inspiration I receive from the blessings of these leaders and the overwhelming support of the people are invaluable to me. Prime Minister Modi's personal letter expressing his desire to include me in his team further motivates me to serve the people of Alappuzha diligently. It is noteworthy that the bishops wholeheartedly appreciated my relentless efforts in Kerala, particularly my commitment to the families in the coastal area.
How confident are you in winning this election?
Victory is not just a possibility but a certainty for me. I am fully confident that I will emerge victorious in this election, and not just by a small margin, but with a significant and record-breaking margin. My track record speaks for itself, as I have a reputation for transforming constituencies into "A class category" during elections. With the overwhelming support of the people and my proven ability to deliver results, there is no doubt in my mind that victory is assured.
