New Delhi: On the 78th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a heartfelt tribute to India’s farmers, hailing them as the backbone of the nation and a driving force in its journey from dependency to self-reliance. From the ramparts of the Red Fort, he recalled how colonial exploitation had left India impoverished — yet it was the dedication and hard work of farmers that filled the nation’s granaries and secured its food sovereignty.
Farmers – Pillars of Prosperity
PM Modi highlighted how India’s robust economic growth is directly benefiting farmers, livestock rearers, and fishermen. Today, the country ranks:
- No. 1 globally in milk, pulses, and jute production.
- No. 2 globally in rice, wheat, cotton, fruits, and vegetables.
Agricultural exports have surpassed ₹4 lakh crore, reinforcing India’s status as a global agricultural power. To bridge regional gaps, PM Modi announced the PM Dhanya Dhanya Krishi Yojana, targeting 100 of the most backward farming districts.
Reaffirming his unwavering support, he said:
“For farmers, fishermen, and livestock rearers, Modi will always stand as a wall of protection.”
Indus Water Treaty – Protecting India’s Rights
Calling the Indus Water Treaty unjust, the Prime Minister stated that it has disadvantaged Indian farmers for decades. He announced that Bharat will no longer accept a one-sided arrangement and will reclaim its rightful share of water to serve its own people and fields.
Agricultural Self-Reliance
PM Modi emphasized the urgent need to produce fertilisers and key agricultural inputs domestically, ensuring that food security is not dependent on foreign imports. This, he stressed, is essential for strengthening both farmers’ welfare and the nation’s economic sovereignty.
Stronger, More Confident Farmers
The Prime Minister praised farmers’ resilience, noting that government initiatives such as PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, rainwater harvesting projects, modern irrigation systems, quality seed distribution, and timely fertiliser supply have boosted confidence among cultivators across the country.
A Wall for Farmers’ Protection
PM Modi closed his address with a pledge that resonated deeply across rural India:
“Bharat ke kisaano, pashu-paalako aur macchuaro se judi kisi bhi ahitkaari neeti ke aage Modi deewar ban kar khada hai. Bharat apne kisaano ke hithon ke sath koi samjhota nahi karega.”
(Against any harmful policy concerning farmers, cattle rearers, and fishermen, Modi will stand like a wall. Bharat will make no compromise on the interests of its farmers.)
