NEW DELHI: BJP MP Sambit Patra delivered a powerful speech in the Parliament today during discussions on the Supplementary Demands for Grants. He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, emphasizing that every rupee spent under his government strengthens the economy, empowers citizens, and contributes to building a stronger India.
Patra stated that the additional budget requested is not merely a financial record but a roadmap for India’s future. He highlighted key initiatives such as the PM Gati Shakti project, PM Kisan Yojana, and measures to enhance national security, stressing their importance for India’s progress.
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Criticizing the previous UPA government, Patra recalled how ₹9,460 crore across 14 departments, including social welfare and rural development, remained unutilized between 2004 and 2014. In contrast, he emphasized that the Modi government ensures each rupee is spent with accountability, transparency, and commitment.
He highlighted that the agriculture budget under the UPA in 2013-14 stood at ₹2,763 crore, whereas it has now increased fivefold to ₹1,37,756 crore under the Modi government. Fertilizer subsidies have also seen a similar increase.
Patra mentioned a recent ₹2,000 crore release under the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme, benefiting nearly 10 crore farmers. He also criticized the Congress party for past corruption cases, citing an incident where a minister allegedly claimed ₹100 crore worth of cauliflower was grown in a pot to evade taxes.
India’s Economic Turnaround
Patra drew comparisons between the financial crises faced during the Congress regime and the economic stability achieved under Modi’s leadership. He recounted how India had to pledge 67 tonnes of gold in 1991 due to economic turmoil. In contrast, in May 2024, 100 tonnes of gold were brought back to India under Modi’s leadership, symbolizing India’s strengthened economic position.
Patra cited the infamous July 2012 blackout, which plunged 22 states into darkness during the UPA regime. He contrasted this with India’s achievement in May 2024, when power demand hit a record 250 GW without any grid failure. He credited this stability to the Modi government’s investment in building the world’s largest unified power grid.
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Relief Measures in Manipur
Addressing concerns about the situation in Manipur, Patra provided detailed data on the government’s relief efforts for internally displaced persons (IDPs). Key measures included:
- Housing Assistance: 2,660 houses completed, 2,520 occupied, and 340 set for completion by month-end.
- Financial Aid: ₹30 crore distributed across five phases, with an additional ₹27 crore allocated for housing reconstruction.
- Relief Camps: ₹280 crore allocated for camp operations.
- Compensation for Farmers: ₹32 crore provided to support agricultural losses.
- Education Support: 11,763 displaced students enrolled in educational institutions, with free admissions facilitated in government schools and colleges.
- Employment and Skill Development: 426 IDP-led startups supported, providing jobs to over 500 individuals.
- Medical Assistance: Free treatment provided to displaced individuals at key medical facilities.
Patra concluded his speech by thanking organizations like Air India, IndiGo, and the Ministry of Tourism for helping relocate 500 displaced children from Manipur to safer regions.
His address was met with applause from BJP members, reinforcing the party’s commitment to economic stability, development, and social welfare.
