I will do in 50 months what others didn't do for the poor in 50 years : PM Modi

"I am surprised that those who did not open a single account in bank are showing their concern that the accounts are not being operated properly. I am here to tell them that what they failed to do in 50 years, I will do in 50 months," Modi said while addressing a function of rickshaw distribution in his parliamentary constituency Varanasi.

The Prime Minister mocked the  opposition for raising questions against his ambitious Jan Dhan Yojana and  asked how those  who kept poor away from banking facilities even after four decades of nationalization of banks are seeking account of h a scheme of government which has brought Rs 30,000 crores cash in rotation in a record time.

Referring to the "Garibi Hatao" sologan raised by the Congress in the past, Modi said : "We have been hearing the slogan of 'Garibi hatao' for 40-50 years, but there has been very little change in the lives of the poor.  Chanting this slogan has only become a tradition and there is a need to come out of it."

Stressing that education is the best way to fight poverty, the Prime Minister, who was on his third visit to his constituency after assuming office in May last year, appealed to the poor to send their wards to schools at any cost. "I urge all of you , whatever circumstances are, ensure that your children receive education. Education is the best  way to fight poverty..."If we educate our children, no power on earth can stop us," he said.

Speaking on  ambitious skill development programmes of his government, Modi said, "How a little support to develop skill of hard working  poor is developing confidence among them was evident when I talked to some of beneficiaries here. A rickshaw puller has become aware about the works `skill development' and its importance. Carry on this programme at broader scale as the same rickshaw pullers and auto drivers create first impression on any tourist because  their training how to behave with guests is also equally important."

Earlier, Uttar Pradesh Governor and Chief Minister  Akhilesh Yadav welcomed the PM at LBS International Airport after his special flight landed. 

Modi then reached the Cantonment area  to address the function in which he distributed 101 e-rickshaw, 501 bicycle rickshaw, packages under Jan Dhan Yojana, solar lanterns to rickshaw, pushcart and street vendors. 


The PM is also scheduled to launch schemes  relating to power and road sectors and inaugurate a  trauma centre inside Banaras Hindu University premises.