On 27 June, in an interview with Times Now, Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed the issue of black money, India's NSG membership and foreign policy with the interviewer Arnab Goswami. Modi also broke his silence on the fiasco surrounding the exit of RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan.
PM Modi spoke at length about his future course of action for the country and asserted that the government will take care of the nation's interests and only development was the solution to people's problems. He also answered questions relating to the economy and job creation.
Here are the key highlights of Modi's interview with Arnab Goswami:
- PM Modi explained that to him that foreign policy was more about our relationship with foreign countries. He said that he did not belong to a political family and meeting a political leader was not a usual thing for him.
"Biggest strength of our foreign policy is political stability. After 30 years, a government with a full majority was elected. For us, no nation is small. Every nation has equal relevance. For example, see India's ties with Pacific Islands. Earlier, foreign policy would centre around two super powers. The world is now more interconnected and interdependent."
- When asked about the death of eight CPRF jawans in Jammu and Kashmir, he said, "We are very proud of our Jawans for their courage. Our Jawans have the full freedom, they have been answering and will continue to answer in an appropriate language."
- When asked about his reaction to the comments made by his Rajya Sabha MP Subramanian Swamy on Rajan, PM Modi said that no one is above the system. He said, "Whether it is in my party or not, I think such things are inappropriate. This fondness for publicity is never going to do any good to the nation. People should conduct themselves with utmost responsibility. If anybody considers himself above the system, it is wrong."
- He also reaffirmed that Goods and Services Tax Bill (GST) would be passed at the earliest, "Not passing GST is a loss for the economically disadvantaged people living in poor states. Those in the Rajya Sabha should understand this."
- When asked what was the 'lakshman rekha' for holding talks with Pakistan, Modi said, "Firstly, with whom in Pakistan will you decide on a laxman rekha - with an elected government or with other non-state actors? India will have to be alert and conscious all the time. There should not be any laxity and negligence."
- "The process of getting an NSG membership has begun on a positive note. We have an ongoing dialogue with China and they have been cooperating with us to look for solutions," Modi replied when asked about India's chances of getting an NSG membership.
- While speaking about development, Modi said, "My development parameter is very simple. It is about how the poorest of the poor can benefit from development. All the schemes are meant to empower people and improve the quality of life."
- He concluded saying, "No matter at what speed I move forward, I am never satisfied. If today I run at a speed of 100 kmph, I aim to run at 200 kmph next."