Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday reiterated that poll freebies increase the burden on taxpayers, prevent the nation from becoming self-sufficient and block investments in new technologies.

“As a Country, we have to take a pledge that we will not allow such tendencies to grow. This is a collective responsibility of the country,” Modi said in his address after dedicating to the nation a modern ethanol plant of Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) through video conferencing.

“If there is selfishness in politics, then anyone can come and announce to give free petrol and diesel. Such steps will take away the rights of our children, and prevent the country from becoming self-reliant. Due to such selfish policies, the burden on honest taxpayers of the country will also increase. To deal with the challenges that the country is facing, it needs clear intentions and commitment. It requires extreme hard work, policy, and huge investments,” Modi further added.

“This is not policy, it is immorality. This is not national interest; it is a loss of the nation. This is not nation-building, it is an attempt to push the nation back. To deal with the challenges facing the country, it takes clear intentions, loyalty, policy,” Modi said.