Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accused opposition parties of spreading false information about potential shortages of fertiliser and cooking gas amidst the ongoing conflict in West Asia. He made these remarks during a gathering in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district on October 30, asserting that the opposition’s actions were aimed at inciting panic and tarnishing the government’s reputation.
Modi assured the public that the government had maintained the availability of fertilisers despite international tensions and rising costs. He highlighted that the government had shielded farmers from the international price surge by offering substantial subsidies. For instance, a bag of urea that costs around ₹3,000 in the international market is provided to Indian farmers for under ₹300, while DAP fertiliser, priced at approximately ₹5,000 internationally, is available at ₹1,350 per bag in India.
The Prime Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting farmers and agricultural production, stating that the additional financial burden was being absorbed to protect this sector. He also condemned opposition leaders for causing unnecessary alarm among farmers and households regarding the availability of fertiliser and cooking gas, which could disrupt daily life.
During the event, Modi also released the 24th instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme, which provides eligible farmers with ₹6,000 annually in direct income support. He touted the government’s agricultural initiatives, claiming that farmers had benefitted significantly through various policies, with over ₹50 lakh crore in savings or direct payments in recent years. These initiatives include support programmes for minimum support prices, crop insurance, solar-powered irrigation, and soil health improvement.
Additionally, Modi inaugurated the Bharat Bovine Breeding and Research Centre in Bhildi, a facility dedicated to research and development of the indigenous Kankrej cattle breed. He highlighted the importance of expanding income opportunities in rural areas through dairy farming, biogas, and bio-CNG production, including the use of cattle waste.
The Prime Minister reflected on his 25 years in public service, crediting the people of Gujarat for his opportunities to lead at both state and national levels. He is set to attend Rashtriya Ekta Diwas programmes on October 31, commemorating the 151st birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.