In an outreach to the farming community, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said the government was standing shoulder to shoulder with the farmers of the country as he launched several projects for their welfare in poll-bound Rajasthan.
Addressing a public gathering in Sikar, where he inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of various development projects, PM Modi said, “Today, after so many decades since Independence, such a government has come to power, which understands the pain and sorrow of the farmer, understands the concern of the farmer. That’s why decisions have been taken continuously in the interest of the farmers in the last nine years.”
The Prime Minister also released around Rs 17,000 crore as the 14th instalment to about 8.5 crore farmer beneficiaries under the PM-KISAN scheme. In the event, the Prime Minister also dedicated 1.25 lakh PM Kisan Samriddhi Kendras (PMKSK) to the nation and launched “Urea Gold” scheme.
The Cabinet had approved the introduction of sulphur-coated urea, known as Urea Gold, last month in a bid to improve soil health and reduce input costs for farmers.
This marks the first-time use of this type of urea in the country. Sulphur-coated urea is more economical and efficient than other types.
“Our government will not allow farmers to suffer due to price of urea. Farmers in India get urea sack for Rs 266. It is available in Pakistan for about Rs 800, Rs 720 in Bangladesh and Rs 2,100 in China,” PM Modi said.
The Prime Minister said creating modern infrastructure in Rajasthan was the priority of the government. “India can only develop when its villages do, govt working to provide in villages every facility available in cities,” he said.
PM Modi also inaugurated six Eklavya model residential schools located in Udaipur, Banswara, Pratapgarh and Dungarpur districts of Rajasthan. Kendriya Vidyalaya Tiwari in Jodhpur was also inaugurated by PM Modi during the programme.
Controversy erupted ahead of PM Modi’s visit to Rajasthan after Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot claimed the PMO (Prime Minister’s Office) removed his pre-scheduled three-minute address from the event in Sikar.
“So, I will not be able to welcome you through speech. Therefore, I am giving you a hearty welcome through this tweet,” Gehlot tweeted.
The Rajasthan CM also took a swipe at PM Modi for visiting the state for the seventh time in six months. Rajasthan goes to polls later this year.
Replying to Gehlot’s tweet, the PMO said the Rajasthan CM was invited as per protocol but the CM’s office said he won’t be able to join the programme.
“In accordance with protocol, you have been duly invited and your speech was also slotted. But, your office said you will not be able to join. During PM’s previous visits as well you have always been invited and you have also graced those programmes with your presence,” the PMO said.
“You are most welcome to join today’s programme. Your name is very much there on the plaque of the development works as well. Unless you have any physical discomfort owing to your recent injury, your presence will be deeply valued,” the PMO further tweeted.
