A country supplying 'aatank' now struggling for 'aata': PM Modi's jibe at Pakistan

A country supplying ‘aatank’ now struggling for ‘aata’: PM Modi’s jibe at Pakistan

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, without directly taking names, took a dig at Pakistan saying that a nation which was a supplier of ‘aatank’ (terror) is struggling for ‘aata’ (flour) these days.

During an election rally in Damoh, Madhya Pradesh, the Prime Minister highlighted India’s progress in the defence sector, noting that the country, which previously relied on foreign arms imports, is now exporting high-tech weapons like the BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines.

Given the current global situation, PM Modi emphasized the importance of having a strong and stable government at the Centre. He defended his government’s decision to purchase oil from Russia amidst international pressure following the Ukraine invasion in 2022, stating that it was made in the national interest to ensure affordable oil for the people and adequate fertilizers for farmers.

“There are many countries in the world whose condition has worsened. Many are getting bankrupt. Even one of our neighbours, which was a supplier of ‘aatank’ (terrorism), is now struggling for supply of ‘aata’ (flour),” PM Modi said, targeting Pakistan.

The Prime Minister stressed that his government prioritizes the nation’s interests and never succumbs to external pressure. He highlighted the BJP government’s effective handling of the Covid-19 crisis, bringing back citizens from around the world during the global chaos.

During his address, the Prime Minister underlined the significance of the next five years in transforming India into a major global power. With war clouds looming in various parts of the world, he emphasized the need for a government capable of handling any contingencies, alluding to ongoing conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war, tensions in West Asia, and the Iran-Israel conflict.

The Prime Minister accused the opposition of weakening the country’s defense sector, claiming that they prioritize their own vested interests even when it comes to procuring weapons for the defense forces. He criticized the Congress for obstructing the acquisition of Rafale fighter jets and asserted that Tejas planes would not have taken flight under their governance.

Modi highlighted his government’s commitment to the welfare of the poor, mentioning the extension of the free ration scheme for five more years, benefiting nearly 80 crore people. He also praised Iqbal Ansari, a former litigant in the Ramjanmabhoomi-Babri Masjid case, for accepting the invitation to attend the Ram temple consecration ceremony in Ayodhya, while condemning the opposition for boycotting the event.

For more news like this visit TOI. Get all the Latest News, City News, India News, Business News, and Sports News. For Entertainment News, TV News, and Lifestyle Tips visit Etimes