PM Modi: In farmer interest, Government hiked diesel price by just Rs 7, not Rs 50

Prime Minister Narendra Modi defended his government's decision to increase diesel prices by only Rs 7 per litre, instead of the required Rs 50, to cushion farmers from the impact of rising crude oil prices due to the war in West Asia. At the India Today Group's 'Kisan Tak Agriculture Conference,' Modi pointed out that other neighboring countries saw a 40-50% increase in fuel prices. The PM emphasized that his government is absorbing a loss of Rs 14,000 crore per month to support farmers.

Modi also criticized some individuals who, while in opposition, had clung to the Constitution, suggesting they now thought Indian democracy and the Constitution were within their grasp. He recalled his time as Chief Minister of Gujarat under the Congress-led UPA government, where Gujarat ranked first in a media ranking, but those in power did not like this praise and attempted to block its publication.

The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of smart farming and empowering farmers for Viksit Bharat (Developed India), stating that previous governments had ignored farmers' needs. He cited a World Bank study showing that 50 crore people in India have been lifted out of poverty in just 12-13 years, with small farmers among those beneficiaries.

Modi reported that agricultural growth averaged 4% for the first time in a decade since Independence. He emphasized that farmers needed empowerment, acknowledging that while filling godowns was previously considered success, farmers deserved more than that. The PM noted that agricultural exports had increased, boosting farmers' income. He highlighted India's leadership in producing milk, rice, jute, and fish, and topping the world in millet production.

The government's focus extends to crop diversification, with a 70% increase in milk production, a 90% rise in egg production, and a doubling of fish production over the last decade. Regarding technology in villages, Modi countered outdated views, showing how drones and mechanization reduced agriculture costs. He urged manufacturers to develop solar-powered farming equipment, promoting farmers as agri-preneurs.

Lastly, Modi called upon farmers to embrace natural farming to protect soil health from chemical damage, stressing their responsibility to Mother Earth. Earlier, at a Diwali Milan program at the BJP headquarters, Modi stressed the importance of deadlines, particularly the year 2047, when India must become a developed nation. He urged the media to highlight India's achievements on the global stage, calling them the 'India Story.'