Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accused opposition parties of spreading misinformation about potential shortages of fertiliser and cooking gas amid ongoing conflict in West Asia, which he claims are attempts to create public panic and tarnish the government’s image. Speaking in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district on October 30, Modi assured the public that his administration has maintained the availability of these resources despite international tensions and rising costs.
Modi emphasized the government’s efforts in shielding farmers from global price hikes by providing subsidies. He noted that a bag of urea, priced at around ₹3,000 in the international market, is available to Indian farmers for less than ₹300. Similarly, DAP fertiliser, which costs approximately ₹5,000 globally, is supplied domestically at ₹1,350 per bag. The Prime Minister stressed that the government is bearing the financial burden to support farmers and agricultural production.
The Prime Minister also released the 24th instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme during the event, which provides ₹6,000 annually to eligible farmers as direct income support. Modi highlighted various government initiatives that have contributed over ₹50 lakh crore to the agricultural sector through policies like minimum support prices, crop insurance, solar-powered irrigation, and soil health improvement. He cited that wheat and paddy farmers have received about ₹24 lakh crore through the Minimum Support Price system over the past 12 years and that over ₹2 lakh crore has been disbursed under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana.
Additionally, Modi inaugurated the Bharat Bovine Breeding and Research Centre at Bhildi. This 127-acre facility focuses on the indigenous Kankrej cattle breed and aims to enhance research, breeding, and development in the livestock sector. He underscored the importance of expanding income opportunities through dairy farming, biogas, and bio-CNG production, particularly utilizing cattle waste.
Reflecting on his political journey, Modi recalled his first oath as Gujarat Chief Minister in October 2001, marking 25 years in public service. He credited the people of Gujarat for their support, which later enabled him to serve the country as Prime Minister. Modi is scheduled to participate in events commemorating Rashtriya Ekta Diwas on October 31, celebrating the 151st birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.