Nirmala Sitharaman counters Opposition's criticism with 'Modi ki Guarantee'

Addressing the political dynamics in Tamil Nadu, Sitharaman highlighted the prevailing anti-incumbency sentiments towards the ruling party.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, in an exclusive interview with News18, provided insights into the government's priorities, addressing key issues ranging from manifesto commitments to Opposition's criticism, and the political landscape in Tamil Nadu.

Sitharaman shed light on the government's vision encapsulated in the "Viksit Bharat 2047" manifesto, emphasising Prime Minister Narendra Modi's unwavering commitment to welfare schemes aimed at empowering the underprivileged and supporting farmers. She underscored the importance of women-led development and highlighted the extensive consultation process that involved over 15 lakh inputs from across India. Sitharaman stressed the imperative to empower marginalized sections of society, particularly farmers facing hardships.

"Viksit Bharat 2047 was clearly in PM's mind and he wanted this to reflect in the manifesto. His emphasis was to relentlessly pursue the welfare scheme to empower the poor and help farmers. To have a women-led development. More than 15 lacs input came from all over India. We want this thing to be added to the manifesto. It is a matter of reality that there is a section of our society that needs empowering. Farmers are fighting against all odds. Therefore we need to empower them," Sitharaman stated regarding the manifesto, emphasizing the importance of the "Viksit Bharat 2047" vision.

Sitharaman defended the government's actions, asserting that all aspects have been meticulously accounted for. She refuted claims of unfulfilled promises, clarifying that while the government did not pledge 15 lakhs directly to individuals, it has taken decisive action against corruption. Sitharaman emphasized the credibility of the government's assurances, epitomized by the phrase "Modi ki guarantee."

Sitharaman responding to Opposition criticism said, "What else can the Opposition do? If they just could read it, we have accounted for everything. Nobody promised 15 lakhs, but we did say we will take action against the corrupt, and it is happening. When we say, 'Modi ki guarantee', that is a guarantee of guarantee."

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Addressing the political dynamics in Tamil Nadu, Sitharaman highlighted the prevailing anti-incumbency sentiments towards the ruling party. She expressed concerns about alleged links between the ruling party and drug dealings and collaboration in the film industry.

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"There is anti-incumbency in Tamil Nadu. The ruling party is with drug dealers. They are producing films together. No reaction has come from the first family," Sitharaman remarked on the political dynamics in Tamil Nadu.

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