PM wishes India 'Merry Christmas' and 'Happy New Year'
Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished the Indian countrymen a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year in the 27th edition of the Mann Ki Baat. Modi wished Atal Bihari Vajpayee- the former Indian PM on his 91st birthday and hailed his contributions towards the country. Modi also touched upon the achievements of former Congress President M.M Malviya on the occasion of his birth anniversary.
Modi asks India to go cashless
Modi hailed the people for going cashless and said that since 8 November, the "cashless business has witnessed a rise of 200 to 300%". He also announced the launch of 2 schemes: the 'Lucky Grahak Yojana' for consumers and 'Digi Dhan Vyapar Yojana' for small traders. Both schemes will reward people for going cashless and also get Income Tax benefits.
Well done Assam: Modi
Modi made a special mention of Assam for taking initiatives to promote a cashless economy amongst the poor people.
Modi hits at the Opposition: The good and the bad
In his address, Modi lashed at the Opposition and thanked the countrymen for not believing the 'rumors' spread during demonetization and upholding his move to end black money. Further, he expressed regret at the stalling of the 'Winter session' in Parliament. However, he said that despite the uproar, the Parliament had come together to pass 'The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Bill'.
Sportsmen and the Indian cricket team get a mention
Modi also mentioned the sportsmen and sportswomen who made India proud in 2016. He also congratulated our Indian cricket team for having defeated England in the recent Test match.
Modi says war on corruption just begun
Prime Minister appreciated the compatriots for carrying out government's demonetization transit despite difficulties. He said those supporting demonetization and being supportive of the battle against black money were the "agents of change". He reemphasized that the demonetization motility was not the end but "just the beginning" of government's struggle against corruption and said the next step would be against Benami properties.
