Debate on government's performance good for democracy: PM Narendra Modi

NEW DELHI: Completing one year in office, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today said the 'manthan' (debate) about the performance of his government is good for democracy as it would help him know what was "lacking".

During his monthly 'Mann Ki Baat' radio programme, he said the entire nation has conducted analysis of the first year of his government and there has been "criticism" even while "many gave distinction to us".

"In a democracy, this 'manthan' (debate) is necessary. Views, for and against, are important. It is very essential to know what was lacking. The good things have their own benefits," he said.

Contending that he feels for the poor, he specially mentioned three social security schemes -- PM Insurance Scheme, the Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana and Atal Pension Scheme, for the benefit of the downtrodden people.

He said these schemes had become a hit within 20 days as 8.52 crore people had enrolled for them.

"I feel for the poor... These schemes are a very important step for social security... These will ensure that the poor are not dependent on anybody and are empowered," Modi said.

"I want to create an army from among the poor to fight poverty and defeat it so that the burden of poverty that the nation is carrying for years is removed. For ridding the nation of poverty, we will continue to make efforts and succeed," he said.

Talking about the 'Kisan TV channel' launched recently, the Prime Minister said it will help the farmers as well as fishermen to learn the best practices and improve productivity.

In this context, he emphasised the need for better nurturing of milk-bearing animals to improve production as he observed that India was far behind in terms of milk production per animal. He pressed for use of scientific technology in this regard.