Govt, Parliament have great respect for farmers, says PM in Lok Sabha

The Congress walked out of Lok Sabha as PM Modi explained the government's stand on the three farm laws

Taking a dig at Opposition parties for their stand on farm laws, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said the central government and the Parliament have great respect for the farmers who are voicing their views on the three farm bills.

Replying in Lok Sabha to the discussion on the motion of thanks to the President''s address to the joint sitting of Parliament, Modi again allayed apprehensions on the farm laws, saying neither any agriculture ''mandi'' (market) has shut down after the three laws were enacted nor has the MSP stopped, rather the MSP has only increased which no one can deny.

Follow Parliament proceedings live here

"This House, our government and we all respect farmers who are voicing their views on the farm bills. This is the reason why topmost ministers of the government are constantly talking to them," he said.

"After the laws relating to agriculture were passed by Parliament, no ''mandi'' has shut. Likewise, MSP has remained. Procurement on MSP has remained. These facts can't be ignored," he said.

When Opposition parties tried to disrupt his speech, the PM said those who are disrupting the House are doing so as per a well-planned strategy as they are unable to digest that people can see the truth.

Also Read | Parliament likely to adjourn a day early on Friday

"Through their games, the trust of the people can never be won," he said, amidst protests by the opposition members.

As Modi tried to defend his government stand on farm bills, the Congress walked out of Lok Sabha.

Modi said India has managed the Covid-19 pandemic successfully despite adverse predictions and the country has now become a ray of hope for the world.

"Predictions were made India cannot survive as a nation, but people of our country proved them wrong and we are now a ray of hope for the world," he said.

Complimenting health care and frontline workers for their relentless work during the pandemic, the prime minister said the way India has managed the coronavirus crisis is a turning point and the world has seen its success.