Modi Announces Rural Empowerment Vision, Urges Diversification of Incomes

In his inaugural address at the Grameen Bharat Mahotsav 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the government's vision to empower rural India by providing ample livelihood opportunities within villages, thereby reducing dependence on urban cities. The PM urged organizations operating in rural areas to establish simple enterprises that can help diversify incomes and improve farmers' produce prices.

Modi highlighted the success of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), which have been instrumental in increasing farmer earnings by introducing better agricultural practices. To replicate this success, the government plans to set up more FPOs and bolster the cooperative movement.

The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of creating a level-playing field for rural consumers by narrowing the gap between urban and rural areas. According to the latest Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES), consumption in rural India has increased nearly threefold since 2011, indicating improved purchasing power.

To achieve this, Modi emphasized the need to implement economic policies that consider every section of society. The government aims to promote micro-irrigation, create more rural enterprises, and maximize the benefits of natural farming. To provide basic amenities like healthcare facilities, sanitation, and drinking water, the government has implemented several programs in each village.

In addition, Modi cautioned against "cause divisions" by the opposition using caste as a means to exploit villagers. He urged Indians to strengthen their collective cultural heritage and preserve their shared values.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that the government is working tirelessly to uplift the poor, youth, farmers, women, and other marginalized sections through various central schemes financed by public sector banks (PSBs). She highlighted the Grameen Bharat Mahotsav as a rich cultural phenomenon showcasing India's diverse heritage and aspirations. The event also featured products from the Northeast, geographical indication tags, natural farming, women's empowerment, and tribal welfare.

The government is committed to establishing more economic policies and programs that address rural concerns and push for sustained growth in these underserved regions.