Inspired by his father, a Madras Regiment swimmer, this businessman has helped 15,000 specially-abled children learn swimming; PM Modi praises his work

Prime Minister Narendra Modi used the latest episode of his monthly radio programme, Mann Ki Baat, to highlight the inspiring work of a Kerala-based swimming instructor whose community initiative has helped thousands learn a life-saving skill.

During the 134th episode of the programme on May 31, Modi praised Saji Valasheril for his efforts in teaching swimming to people of all ages, including specially-abled children, through a unique river-based training programme in Aluva.

PM Modi Highlights Kerala Swimming Initiative in Mann Ki Baat

Speaking about community-driven efforts that create meaningful social change, PM Modi shared the story of Valasheril's swimming club.

The Prime Minister described it as a place where people of all ages gather to learn swimming without the need for large buildings or conventional classrooms.

"This isn't a story. This is a true effort. In Aluva, Kerala, Saji Valasheril runs one such swimming club. More than 15,000 people have learned to swim here," PM Modi said.

He also praised the instructor for training Divyang children and making swimming accessible to a wider section of society.

Who Is Saji Valasheril?

Valasheril is a businessman from Kerala who runs a furniture business and has been passionate about swimming since childhood.

According to reports, he learned swimming at a young age from his father, who was an accomplished swimmer and served with the Madras Regiment.

For more than 15 years, he has been conducting swimming classes at Desham near Aluva Manappuram in Kerala's Ernakulam district.

His mission is simple: to ensure that drowning does not claim lives that could otherwise be saved through basic swimming skills.

What Inspired Saji Valasheril's Swimming Campaign?

PM Modi revealed that a tragic incident became the turning point behind Valasheril's initiative.

Several years ago, a boat accident involving students deeply affected him.

"He thought, if the children knew how to swim, perhaps many lives could have been saved, and that's where his campaign began," the Prime Minister said.

The incident motivated Valasheril to dedicate his time and resources towards teaching swimming and water safety.

How Does the Swimming Camp Work?

The swimming camp is generally conducted between November and May each year and attracts participants from different age groups.

Reports suggest that trainees follow a structured learning programme covering key skills, including:

• Floating in water
• Basic kicking techniques
• Swimming with the head underwater
• Breathing control
• Swimming while periodically lifting the head to breathe

To ensure safety, a rescue boat and ambulance remain on standby throughout the training sessions.

Participants contribute a one-time fee of around Rs 100 towards safety arrangements.

More Than 15,000 People Trained

Over the years, Valasheril's initiative has reportedly helped more than 15,000 people learn swimming.

The programme has also focused on inclusivity by providing training opportunities to specially-abled children, making it one of the region's notable community service efforts.

PM Modi's Message on Service and Social Change

While highlighting the initiative, PM Modi said Valasheril's work demonstrates how a single individual can make a lasting difference through dedication and consistent effort.

"Service doesn't require vast resources; what's needed is a good intent and consistent effort. On the strength of these alone, the lives of thousands can be transformed," he said.

At a time when water safety remains a concern in many parts of India, Valasheril's initiative shows how community-led programmes can help save lives and spread awareness.

His work has not only taught thousands a valuable skill but has also become an example of how local efforts can create a wider social impact, something that earned recognition from the Prime Minister on a national platform.

Inputs from agencies