BJP Nationwide Campaign on Local Products

Small shopkeepers, farmers and cattle breeders' interests will remain govt priority, says PM

- RAJESH KUMAR THAKUR @ New Delhi

IN a veiled reference to the US announcement of a 50% tariff on Indian goods from August 27, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday assured small shopkeepers, farmers, and cattle breeders that their interests will remain his government's priority.

The PM was addressing the people on Day 1 of his two-day Gujarat visit which started with a massive roadshow and public meeting in Nikol, Ahmedabad, where he inaugurated projects worth ₹5,477 crore. From pledges of self-reliance and tax reforms to sharp attacks on the opposition, Modi's 52-minute address wove together development, nationalism, and Gujarat pride, striking both emotional and political chords. Underlining the country's social transformation, the PM claimed that 25 crore citizens have risen out of poverty, drawing global recognition.