New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave a clear message to the world amid US tariff threats that he stands as a shield for farmers and India will never compromise on their interests. Addressing the countrymen from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of 79th Independence Day, the Prime Minister said that India’s farmers, livestock farmers and fishermen are our biggest priority.
Prime Minister Modi paid an emotional tribute to India’s farmers, calling them the basis of the nation’s journey from dependence to self-reliance. He recalled how colonial rule had made the country poor, but it was the tireless efforts of the farmers that filled India’s food reserves and secured the nation’s food sovereignty.
In his Independence Day speech, the Prime Minister said that agriculture is the cornerstone of India’s development. India today ranks number 1 in the world in milk, pulses and jute production, while it ranks number 2 in the production of rice, wheat, cotton, fruits and vegetables. India’s agricultural exports have crossed the Rs 4 lakh crore mark, reflecting the country’s strength in global competition.
He declared, “Modi will always stand as a wall of protection for farmers, fishermen and livestock farmers.”
Prime Minister Modi praised the strength of the farmer and said that whether small farmers, livestock farmers, or fishermen, all are benefiting from several development schemes. He said, “Initiatives like PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, rainwater harvesting, irrigation projects, quality seed distribution and timely fertilizer supply have together increased the confidence of farmers across the country.”
He ended this part of his address with a resolution. Reiterating his commitment, he said, “Modi stands as a wall in front of any detrimental policy related to India’s farmers, livestock farmers and fishermen. India will not compromise with the interests of its farmers.”
This speech of PM Narendra Modi is being seen as a message to the US, which recently imposed a 50 percent tariff on India. The US wanted to go ahead with the trade deal in an attempt to gain access to India’s agriculture and dairy sector. However, India flatly refused the deal. This infuriated US President Donald Trump and announced a 50 percent tariff on India. Despite this tariff threat from the US, India is still firm on its decision.
