Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accused opposition parties of spreading false information about potential shortages of fertiliser and cooking gas amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Speaking in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district on October 30, Modi alleged that these rumours were intended to create panic and tarnish the government’s reputation.
Modi assured the public that his government has maintained the availability of fertilisers despite international tensions and rising prices. He emphasized that the government has been absorbing the additional costs to shield farmers from the impact of increased international prices. For example, a bag of urea, priced at approximately ₹3,000 in the global market, is being provided to Indian farmers for less than ₹300, while DAP fertiliser, which costs around ₹5,000 internationally, is available at ₹1,350 per bag.
The Prime Minister also criticized opposition leaders for allegedly spreading unnecessary fear among farmers and households regarding potential shortages of fertilisers and cooking gas, which could disrupt daily life. He reiterated his commitment to serving the people of India and highlighted the government’s agricultural initiatives.
During the event, Modi 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 claimed that through various policies over recent years, farmers have received or saved more than ₹50 lakh crore. These policies include the Minimum Support Price system, crop insurance, solar-powered irrigation, and soil health improvement.
Additionally, Modi inaugurated the Bharat Bovine Breeding and Research Centre, a 127-acre facility focused on the indigenous Kankrej cattle breed, in Gujarat. The center aims to support research and development in the livestock sector, with an emphasis on expanding income opportunities through dairy farming, biogas, and bio-CNG production.
Reflecting on his political journey, Modi recalled taking 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 allowed him to serve both the state and the country. Modi is set to participate in events commemorating Rashtriya Ekta Diwas on October 31, celebrating the 151st birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.