PM’s Message To Farmers: ‘Can’t Build New Century With Old Laws, Reforms Needed’

New Delhi: In an indirect but unambiguous message to the agitating farmers who have been demanding the withdrawal of farm laws, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Monday that reforms are needed for development.

“Reforms are needed for development. Reforms are very much needed for a new order and to give new facilities. We cannot build the next century with the laws of the previous century,” he said while launching the Agra metro rail project through video conference.

Modi, however, made no direct reference to the contentious three new laws or the farmers’ protest, which is getting stronger by the day.

“Some laws that used to be good in the past century have become a burden in the present century. Reforms should be a continuous process,” he said, adding that his government is carrying out ‘holistic’ reforms.

“Earlier, reforms used to happen in a piecemeal manner, or keeping in mind some sectors and departments,” the Prime Minister said.

Unlike in the past, Modi said his government ensures the availability of funds once a new project gets rolling.

He informed that work is under way to set up 1,000 km of new metro rail lines in 27 cities.

The Agro Metro project, estimated to cost Rs 8,379.62 crore, covers a total length of 29.4 km and will connect prominent tourist attractions like Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Sikandara with railway stations and bus stands.

The project is scheduled to be completed in 5 years.