PMJDY, other schemes giving new sense of confidence to poor: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) and other related schemes are giving a new sense of confidence to the poor.

"In the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, almost 65 thousand crore rupees have been deposited in the banks by our underprivileged brethren. In a way, this is a saving for the poor; this is empowerment for the future. And those who opened their accounts under the PMJDY have received the benefits of insurance as well. Schemes like Pradhan Mantri Jeewan Jyoti Beema Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Beema Yojana with a small premium of Re. 1 or Rs. 30 are giving a new sense of confidence to the poor," Prime Minister Modi said, in the 35th edition of his monthly radio address 'Mann ki Baat'.

The Prime Minister also said that through the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, youth can take loans from banks, without any guarantee, to stand on their own feet.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Modi also discussed a issue raised by a caller - unwarranted haggling with street vendors, shopkeepers, salesmen, while spending limitlessly at malls or restaurants.

"It is not a matter of two or five rupees. It hurts the poor seller deeply, when he feels that you are questioning his honesty. I appeal everyone to stop doing so," he said.

Prime Minister Modi had announced a flagship programme - the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) - aimed at availing financial inclusion for the poor. This included opening bank accounts for the poor, giving them electronic means of payment (via RUPAY cards), and placing them in a position to avail themselves of credit and insurance.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Modi touched upon a variety of topics in his latest 'Mann ki Baat' address, including terrorism, violence, and cleanliness among others.