In a political conclave titled ‘Manch’ organized by India News today (July 29), Union Minister Pralhad Venkatesh Joshi participated in a notable discussion with India News Mumbai Bureau Chief Vikas Srivastava. Joshi, who is the Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, as well as the 10th Minister of New and Renewable Energy since 2024, addressed key issues under his departments and shared insights into the government’s agenda and strategies.
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi (@JoshiPralhad) speaks to Rakesh Singh (@rakesh91739833), Managing Editor, India News. An engaging discussion on the Modi government’s Viksit Bharat 2047 goal and the opposition’s role in democratic processes. Watch the conclave live on #NewsX:… pic.twitter.com/c6mmlaw4vG
— NewsX World (@NewsX) July 29, 2024
What is the 100-day agenda under your department?
In the renewable energy sector, our agenda is to achieve a target of 200 gigawatts, which we have successfully accomplished. We are also celebrating this achievement. On the consumer side, we have made changes to consumer protection rules. Our focus remains on food and civil supply. This forms our 100-day agenda.
Urea Coating Strategy:
What is the government’s strategy for urea coating?
Although this doesn’t fall under my department, I can say that the benefits of neem-coated urea have been realized. Discussions on sulfur-coated urea and other variations are being conducted by the relevant department. It would be more appropriate for the minister of that department to provide a detailed answer.
What is Department’s Plan in Mission 2047?
For Mission 2047, we aim to achieve 500 gigawatts by 2030. By 2047, our mission is to reduce emissions and increase renewable energy to achieve a developed Bharat. India has become a world leader in renewable energy, holding the fourth largest installed capacity globally. We have exceeded our targets and continue to progress, with around 400 gigawatts in the pipeline.
Do you see Rahul Gandhi as a challenge?
Rahul Gandhi’s criticisms lack logic. In the Mahabharat, seven warriors confronted Abhimanyu, but Gandhi’s version adds six more, which is inconsistent. Our budget has made significant allocations to infrastructure, generating jobs, and positioning India to become the third-largest economy. His statements are illogical and don’t reflect the progress we’ve made.
Interruption During PM’s Address:
Interrupting the Prime Minister’s address is unprecedented and detrimental to democratic discourse. During my 10 years in opposition, we never interrupted the Prime Minister’s response. The opposition’s actions are not in the interest of the public.
The opposition claims the government is not answering Rahul Gandhi’s questions.
During the parliamentary session, Rajnath Singh clarified the compensation for Agniveer, with documents from the army. However, the opposition refuses to accept this. It’s challenging to engage with those who pretend not to understand the facts.
#IndiaNewsManch | ‘Defence Minister has clarified that compensation has been given to Agniveer martyrs, even the army has clarified it but Rahul Gandhi is ready to listen to anyone’ says Union Minister Pralhad Joshi@prahladjoshi121
Watch the conclave live on NewsX:… pic.twitter.com/41EktTuZEb
— NewsX World (@NewsX) July 29, 2024
Take On ‘Sarkaar Bachao’ Budget Allegation:
When I was in opposition, there were similar claims. For instance, a significant allocation to railways was criticized despite being a record amount. The Andhra Reorganization Act commitments are often misunderstood. The opposition’s allegations are illogical, and the public doesn’t take them seriously.
#IndiaNewsManch | The opposition didn’t let the PM speak for more than 2 hours. How is it a good thing that PM was not given an opportunity to speak in Parliament?’ says Union Minister Pralhad Joshi@prahladjoshi121
Watch the conclave live on NewsX: https://t.co/1i4wztUJjZ… pic.twitter.com/UHeDm7wUCF
— NewsX World (@NewsX) July 29, 2024
Is BJP Misusing ED and CBI?
When a Chief Minister is arrested, it reaches the Supreme Court, and bail isn’t granted for months. The same applies to Deputy Chief Ministers. If there were any wrongdoing, the courts would address it. Recently, in Karnataka, an officer under pressure from unauthorized fund transfers committed suicide. Shouldn’t the ED investigate such matters?
