Later on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Pune to deliver an address at the inauguration of International Conference on sugarcane value chain.
Modi Speaks of Importance of Technology in Agriculture in Pune Address
Emphasising the importance of technology in the sphere of agriculture, Modi said that over the years, India has lagged in the world in agricultural research and technology.
The day is not far when technology will play an important role in developing agricultural pattern of the country.Narendra Modi
On the topic of demonitisation, Modi explained:
I couldn’t have taken this step before 8 November because people who have stashed black money would have become alert.
He further added:
I can assure that no one has to exchange their Rs 500/1000 notes for even 1 rupee less, you will get the exact change...My farmer brethren, no one will impose any taxes on you. Don’t worry, this country is yours, I am yours. Don’t be misled.
Soon after his address in Mopa, Goa, Narendra Modi reached Belgaum, Karnataka.
Modi Reaches Belgaum, Karnataka
He arrived at the valedictory of the year-long centenary celebrations of the Karnataka Lingayat Education (KLE) Society where he will also address a public gathering.
The entire address can be watched here:
Support me Till 30 December, Reiterates Modi in Belgaum
During his address in Belgaum, Modi reiterated what he had said a couple of hours ago in Goa and said that he wants people to support and be patient with him till 30 December.
This government will never trouble honest people...If to punish the cheaters we have to face some inconvenience for 50 days, will you or will you not support me?...The poor slept peacefully on the 8th while the rich went out to buy sleeping pills and couldn’t find any.
He also praised the KLE and said that when Tokyo hosts Olympics in 2020, it can win gold medals. Modi further added that even though Indian universities are not among the top 100 in the world, but government and private universities should come forward to change that for the better.
Additionally, the Prime Minister responded to questions raised by Congress.
Congress is asking why did we discontinue Rs 1000 and 500 notes. Did we question you when you discontinued the chawanni? That was the extent of your power. But you also agreed on the ban, even though it wasn’t in your power to discontinue big denominations.
Earlier, Narendra Modi arrived in Goa on Sunday and inaugurated the electronic city project in Tuem, North Goa. This was followed by laying the foundation stone of Mopa greenfield airport.
This is Modi's second visit to the state in two months; he hosted the BRICS summit in October this year.
You Asked for End to Black Money, You Knew It Would Cause Problems: PM Modi
During his address in Goa, Narendra Modi spoke about demonetisation.
On 8th, in front of the country, India took important steps in its war against black money and corruption. But some people are always lost in their own thoughts, who keep measuring things according to their own scales. Had they changed their scales after I came to power then this problem wouldn’t have risen. They should have understood that the country chose and voted for a government in 2014 which is against corruption and black money. You had asked me for this and you knew it would cause some problems.Narendra Modi
‘Whatever I Had, I Left it For the Country’
As Modi continued with his speech, he was overwhelmed with emotions and had to pause and take a sip of water to collect himself.
I was not born to sit on a chair of high office. Whatever I had, my family, my home – I left it for the nation.Narendra Modi
Commenting further on demonetisation, the Prime Minister added:
Those involved in big scams, now have to stand in long queues to take out Rs 4000.
Give Me 50 Days and I Will Give You the India You Dreamt Of: Modi
He said demonetisation was implemented in an effort to help the poor and the honest of the country.
Give me a chance till 30 December. If you still think I am lacking in something, or making a mistake, I will accept whatever punishment the country deems fit for me in any city square you choose... My countrymen, (give me) only 50 days. After that I promise to give you the India you dreamt of.
He concluded his speech with a comment on those who oppose his decisions and policies.
They will not leave me alive. They will destroy me. Let them do what they want. (For) 50 days, help me. The country should just help me for 50 days. This is not the end. This is not a full stop. I am openly saying, this is not a full stop. There are other projects in my mind to stop dishonesty and corruption in the country. These projects are coming.
Akbar Had Nine Jewels in His Cabinet, I Have Many: Modi on Manohar Parrikar
The Prime Minister also lauded Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar’s efforts and contribution to Goa’s progress.
I laud Manohar Parrikar for ushering in a political culture in Goa – that of taking Goa to new heights of progress. Because of him, Goa saw political stability and formation of a Government that works for the welfare of the state. It’s said Akbar had nine jewels in his cabinet, I am proud to say I have many including the valuable Parrikar ji from Goa.
Of the two projects being kick-started by Modi, the Mopa airport is Goa's first civilian airport and is being developed by GMR Airports and the electronic city is expected to host manufacturing units for electronics components, envisaged under the Make in India scheme.
(With inputs from media agencies.)
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