PM Modi Slams Congress Over ‘Garibi Hatao,’ Highlights Welfare Wins

Surat : Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his first visit to Surat after being elected as Prime Minister for the third time, took a strong dig at the opposition Congress, questioning the effectiveness of the long-standing ‘Garibi Hatao’ slogan. Addressing a large gathering, PM Modi outlined his government’s initiatives in poverty alleviation, MSME support, and nationwide welfare schemes that have transformed lives across India.

PM Modi declared, “Jisko kisi ne nahi poocha, usko Modi ne pooja” (Those ignored by others, Modi has worshipped). He reiterated his commitment to serving the poor, building a self-reliant India, and ensuring that every citizen benefits from the nation’s economic growth.

PM Modi recalled how, in earlier decades, poor individuals seeking to start businesses were denied bank access due to a lack of guarantees. “This poor mother’s son took the guarantee,” he said, referring to the launch of the Mudra Yojana, under which Rs 32 lakh crore has been provided as loans without collateral to small businesses, hawkers, vegetable vendors, and street vendors.

Highlighting another major initiative, he announced that the PM Vishwakarma Scheme would provide credit cards to skilled workers, allowing daily wage laborers and traditional artisans to receive financial support and skill training. These schemes aim to empower self-reliant individuals and strengthen grassroots entrepreneurship.

PM Modi claimed that about 25 crore people in India have risen out of poverty due to various government initiatives. He emphasized tax relief for the middle class, stating that individuals earning up to Rs 12 lakh annually will not be required to pay income tax, with additional benefits for salaried employees up to Rs 12.75 lakh. This move, he stated, will allow the middle class to save more and invest in their children’s future.

Calling Surat’s Food Security Campaign a role model for India, PM Modi praised its efficiency and transparency. “There is no discrimination, no corruption, and no one is left out,” he asserted. The Surat administration has identified 2.15 lakh new beneficiaries, including elderly citizens, widows, and disabled individuals, ensuring they receive free ration and nutritious food under government schemes.

PM Modi underscored the success of One Nation, One Ration Card, which enables migrant workers to avail food grains anywhere in India. He pointed out that in Surat alone, thousands of migrants from Odisha, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar have benefited from the scheme, ensuring food security regardless of location.

He also revealed that his government eradicated over 5 crore fake ration cards by linking them with Aadhaar, preventing misuse and ensuring rightful distribution.

PM Modi reiterated his government’s mission to fight malnutrition and anemia, emphasizing the PM Poshan Scheme, which provides nutritious food to 12 crore school children. Additionally, under the Ayushman Bharat health scheme, 60 crore Indians are eligible for free medical treatment up to Rs 5 lakh, with Rs 16,000 crore already disbursed to families in need.

Recognizing Surat’s industrial prowess, PM Modi announced a Rs 5 lakh credit card for MSMEs, enabling small businesses to expand. He stressed Surat’s significant role in India’s economy and promised continued infrastructure development, particularly in textile, chemical, and engineering sectors.

He highlighted key projects such as the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, Dedicated Freight Corridor, and Surat’s Integrated Terminal Building, all of which will enhance connectivity, boost trade, and improve quality of life for residents. PM Modi reaffirmed his vision to elevate Surat to a global industrial hub with world-class air and rail connectivity.