Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accused opposition parties in India of spreading baseless rumours about potential shortages of fertilisers and cooking gas amidst the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Speaking at a gathering in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district on October 30, Modi alleged that these claims were intended to incite fear among the public and tarnish the government’s reputation.
Modi reassured the public that his government has maintained a steady supply of fertilisers despite international tensions and rising prices. He emphasized the government’s commitment to shielding farmers from the impact of increased international fertiliser costs through substantial subsidies. For instance, he noted that a bag of urea costing around ₹3,000 in the international market is provided to Indian farmers for less than ₹300, while DAP fertiliser, priced at approximately ₹5,000 internationally, is available to them at ₹1,350 per bag.
In addition to addressing the fertiliser issue, Modi accused opposition leaders of creating panic by suggesting that cooking gas supplies could be disrupted, potentially affecting daily life for households across the nation. He reiterated his lifelong dedication to serving the people of India and highlighted various government initiatives aimed at supporting the agricultural sector.
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 praised the government’s efforts to benefit farmers through policies such as minimum support prices, crop insurance, solar-powered irrigation, and soil health improvement. He claimed that these initiatives had resulted in significant financial benefits for farmers, including approximately ₹24 lakh crore received by wheat and paddy farmers through the Minimum Support Price system over the past 12 years.
Further emphasizing the government’s commitment to agriculture, Modi inaugurated the Bharat Bovine Breeding and Research Centre, a 127-acre facility dedicated to the indigenous Kankrej cattle breed, in Gujarat. He highlighted the importance of expanding income opportunities through dairy farming, biogas, and bio-CNG production.
Modi’s speech also marked his 25 years in public service, recalling his first oath as Gujarat Chief Minister in October 2001. He credited the people of Gujarat for their support throughout his political career. Modi is scheduled to participate in events for Rashtriya Ekta Diwas on October 31, celebrating Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s 151st birth anniversary.