New Delhi: In the face of US President Donald Trump's decision to double tariffs on India to 50 percent, including an additional 25 percent duty linked to India’s purchase of Russian oil, Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserted that India will never compromise on the interests of its farmers and fishermen. He underscored his government’s sustained efforts to increase their income while reducing input costs.
PM Modi further stated that he is "personally prepared to pay any price for this cause".
"Our topmost priority is the welfare of our farmers. India will never compromise on the interests of its farmers, livestock rearers, and fishers. I am personally prepared to pay any price for this cause. For our farmers, for our fishers, and for our animal rearers and India stands ready," PM Modi said.
"We are working tirelessly to increase farmers’ income, reduce input costs, and create new sources of livelihood," he said.
“The strength of India’s farmers is the foundation of the nation's progress,” said the Prime Minister after inaugurating the MS Swaminathan Centenary International Conference here, reiterating the government's unwavering commitment to the welfare of farmers, fishermen, and dairy workers.
"Our government considers the strength of farmers as the foundation of India’s development. The policies of the past few years have not just provided support, but also instilled confidence in our farmers.
Listing out the schemes implemented by his government, PM Modi said, "The PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi offers direct financial assistance to small farmers. The PM Fasal Bima Yojana protects them from crop losses. The PM Krishi Sinchai Yojana addresses irrigation issues. The formation of 10,000 FPOs has boosted collective bargaining for small farmers. Support to cooperatives and self-help groups has revitalized the rural economy. Platforms like e-NAM have made it easier for farmers to sell their produce. The PM Kisan Sampada Yojana has accelerated food processing and storage infrastructure. Recently, we approved the PM Dhan Dhanya Yojana, focusing on 100 underdeveloped districts to provide infrastructure and financial support to farming communities."
The Prime Minister noted that India is currently the world’s leading producer of milk, pulses, and jute, and achieved its highest-ever foodgrain output last year. He credited much of this success to the legacy of Dr. MS Swaminathan, lauding his pivotal role in making India self-reliant in food production.
“Dr. Swaminathan not only advanced biodiversity but also introduced the visionary concept of bio-happiness,” Modi said, highlighting the scientist's pioneering contributions to agricultural science. He added that Dr. Swaminathan’s ideas continue to influence India’s agriculture sector to this day.
The Prime Minister stressed the need for the country's agricultural research community to focus on ensuring nutritional security, in addition to food security. He called for the development of more climate-resilient and heat-tolerant crop varieties in view of changing climatic patterns.
Modi also noted that the government had the honour of conferring the Bharat Ratna upon Dr. Swaminathan, in recognition of his invaluable service to the nation. He further added that over the past decade, the handloom sector had been revitalised, gaining both identity and strength across the country.
