“The Agriculture Minister is just a phone call away for taking forward the talks,” PM Modi

Addressing the all-party meeting on the budget session of parliament, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said the Centre is approaching the issue of farm laws with an open mind.

The Prime Minister said the government's stand is the same as it was on January 22, and the proposal given by the Agriculture Minister still stands.

He reiterated that the Agriculture Minister is just a phone call away for taking forward the talks. On references made by the leaders on the unfortunate incident on January 26, the Prime Minister said that the law will take its own course.

Prime Minister Modi said that the government is open to detailed discussion on issues raised by the leaders in the meeting.

He reaffirmed the importance of smooth functioning of parliament and comprehensive debates on the floor of the House.

He added that frequent disruptions mean smaller parties suffer as they can’t express themselves adequately. He said that it is for the bigger parties to ensure that parliament functions smoothly, there are no disruptions and thus, the smaller parties are able to voice their views in parliament.

The Prime Minister highlighted the role India can play to further global good in many sectors. He referred to the skills and prowess of our people, which can be a force multiplier for global prosperity.

While paying tributes to Mahatma Gandhi on his Punya Tithi, he said, “We must strive towards fulfilling his dreams.”

He also condemned the desecration of Mahatma Gandhi’s statue in the US this morning, saying that such “an atmosphere of hate is not welcome for our planet.”