QuoteThese Laws signify the end of colonial-era laws: PM Modi
QuoteThe new criminal laws strengthen the spirit of - "of the people, by the people, for the people," which forms the foundation of democracy: PM Modi
QuoteNyaya Sanhita is woven with the ideals of equality, harmony and social justice: PM Modi
QuoteThe mantra of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita is - Citizen First: PM Modi

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi dedicated to the nation the successful implementation of three transformative new criminal laws—Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam today at Chandigarh. Addressing the gathering, Shri Modi remarked that the identity of Chandigarh was associated with the Goddess Maa Chandi, a form of power which establishes truth and justice. He added that the same philosophy was the basis of the whole format of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita. The Prime Minister said that the coming into effect of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, inspired by the spirit of the Indian Constitution, was an illustrious moment as the nation was at the important juncture of moving ahead with the resolution of Viksit Bharat as well as commemorating the completion of 75 years of Indian Constitution. He added that it was a concrete effort towards fulfilling the ideals that our Constitution envisioned for the citizens of the country. Shri Modi said that he had just got a glimpse of how the laws will be enforced by a live demonstration of the same. The Prime Minister urged the people to visit the live demo of the laws. He extended his warm greetings to all the citizens on the occasion of successful implementation of three new criminal laws. He also congratulated all the stakeholders of the administration of Chandigarh.

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The Prime Minister underscored that the process of making the country's new Nyay Sanhita has been as comprehensive as the document itself. He added that it involved the hard work of the nation's many great constitution and legal experts. Shri Modi noted that the Ministry of Home Affairs had asked for suggestions in January 2020. He added that there were suggestions of many Chief Justices of the Supreme Court along with support from the Chief Justices of many High Courts of the country. He said that many stakeholders including the Supreme Court, 16 High Courts, Judicial Academies, Law Institutions, Civil Society Organizations and many intellectuals were involved in debates and discussions and used their vast experience over years to give their suggestions and ideas for the new Sanhitas. He further added that there were deliberations on the needs of the nation in today’s modern world. Shri Modi also noted that there was intensive brainstorming over the challenges faced by the Judicial System in the seven decades of Independence along with looking into the practical aspect of each and every law. He added that even the futuristic aspect of the Nyay Sanhita was worked upon. All these intensive efforts, he said, had given us the current form of the Nyay Sanhita. Shri Modi expressed his gratitude to the Honorable Supreme Court, High Courts - Punjab and Haryana High Court, in particular and all the honorable Judges for their concerted efforts towards the new Nyay Sanhita. He also thanked the Bar for coming forward and taking its ownership. Shri Modi expressed confidence that this Nyay Sanhita of India, made with everyone's cooperation, would prove to be a milestone in India's judicial journey.

Noting that the Criminal laws were made by the Britishers in the pre-Independence era as means of oppression and exploitation, Shri Modi said that Indian Penal Code (IPC) was introduced in 1860 consequent to the country's first major freedom struggle in 1857. He added that a few years later, the Indian Evidence Act was introduced and then the first structure of CRPC came into existence. Shri Modi remarked that the idea and purpose of these laws was to punish Indians and enslave them. He expressed that it was unfortunate that even decades after independence, our laws revolved around the same penal code and penal mindset. He further added that despite changes in the laws from time to time, their character remained the same. Shri Modi underscored that this mindset of slavery had impacted India's progress to a great extent.

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Emphasizing that the country should now come out of that colonial mindset, the Prime Minister urged that the strength of the nation should be used in nation building, which necessitated national thinking. He recalled that during the Independence day speech this year, he had pledged to the country to get rid of the mentality of slavery. Shri Modi underlined that with the implementation of the new Nyay Sanhitas, the country had taken another step forward in that direction. He added that the Nyaya Sanhita was strengthening the spirit of 'of the people, by the people, for the people', which is the basis of democracy.

Remarking that the Nyay Sanhita was woven with the ideas of equality, harmony and social justice, Shri Modi said despite everyone being equal in the eyes of the law, the practical reality was different. He added that the poor were afraid of the laws, stepping into the court or a police station even. The Prime Minister remarked that the new Nyaya Sanhita would work to change the psychology of the society. He added that every poor person will have faith that the law of the country is a guarantee of equality. This, he said, embodied the true social justice assured in our Constitution.

The Prime Minister underlined that Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita had sensitivity towards every victim. He stressed that it was imperative for the citizens of the country to know its details. Urging the gathering to see the live demo there, Shri Modi stressed that the live demo shown at Chandigarh today should be promoted and broadcast by the police of every state. The laws involved provisions such as within 90 days of the complaint, the victim will have to be given information regarding the progress of the case and this information will reach him directly through digital services like SMS. He added that a system had been created to take action against the person who obstructs the work of the police and a separate chapter was introduced to ensure the safety of women including their rights and safety at workplace, home and society. Shri Modi remarked that the Nyay Sanhitas ensured that the law stands with the victim. He added that in heinous crimes against women like rape, charges would be framed within 60 days from the first hearing and it was also made mandatory to pronounce the verdict within 45 days of the completion of the hearing along with no adjournments for more than twice in any case.

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“Citizen First is the basic mantra of Nyay Sanhita”, exclaimed Shri Modi and added that these laws were becoming the protectors of civil rights and the basis of 'ease of justice'. Noting that it was very difficult to get an FIR registered earlier, Shri Modi remarked that now Zero FIR was legalized and now a case could be registered from anywhere. The Prime Minister also noted that the victim had been given the right to be given a copy of the FIR and now any case against the accused would be withdrawn only when the victim agrees. He added that now the police would not be able to detain any person on their own and informing his/her family members had been made mandatory in the Nyay Sanhita. Highlighting Humanity and Sensitivity as the other important aspects of new Nyaya Sanhita, Shri Modi said that now the accused could not be kept in jail for a very long time without punishment and now in the case of a crime punishable with less than 3 years, arrest can also be made only with the consent of the higher authority. He added that the Provision of mandatory bail was also made for minor crimes. Elaborating further, the Prime Minister noted that in ordinary crimes, the option of Community Service was also kept in place of punishment. This, he said, will give the accused new opportunities to move forward in a positive direction in the interest of society. Shri Modi underlined that the new Nyay Sanhita was also very sensitive towards first time offenders and after the implementation of the Nyay Sanhita, thousands of such prisoners were released from jails, who were imprisoned due to old laws. He added that the new Nyay Sanhitas will further strengthen the empowerment of civil rights.

Emphasising that the first criterion of justice was timely justice, the Prime Minister said that the country had taken a big leap towards speedy justice by introducing the new Nyay Sanhita. He added that priority was given to file chargesheets and give verdicts quickly in the Nyay Sanhita by setting time limits for completing each stage in any case. Remarking the newly implemented Nyay Sanhita needed time to mature, Shri Modi was pleased that in such a short span of time, the results received from different parts of the country were highly satisfactory. He cited the examples of Chandigarh where a vehicle theft case was completed in just 2 months and 11 days and accused in case of spreading unrest in an area was also sentenced by the court after a complete hearing in just 20 days. He further cited examples of speedy justice in Delhi and Bihar and added that these speedy verdicts showed the power and impact of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita. Shri Modi emphasised that this change showed that changes and results were ascertained when there was a government dedicated to the interests of ordinary citizens and solving their problems. He further urged that these verdicts should be discussed as much as possible in the country so that every Indian knows how his power for justice has increased. He added that this would also make the criminals wary of the old and non-existent delayed justice system.

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“Rules and laws are effective only when they are relevant to the times”, said Shri Modi. Adding that today the methods of crime and criminals had changed which necessitated the introduction of new laws which are modern. Noting that digital evidence can be kept as an important evidence and Videography of the entire process had been made mandatory to ensure that evidence is not tampered with during investigation, Shri Modi said that useful tools like e-Saksha, Nyay Shruti, Nyay Setu, e-Summon Portal were developed to implement the new laws. He added that now summons can be served directly on the phone by the court and the police through electronic mediums. He further added that Audio-video recording of witness statements could also be done. Noting that the Digital evidence would also be valid in the court now, Shri Modi said it will become the basis of justice and would prevent unnecessary wastage of time till the criminal is caught. He noted that these changes were equally important for the security of the country and Integration of digital evidence and technology would also help us fight against terrorism. He added that terrorists or terrorist organizations would not be able to take advantage of the complexities of the law under the new laws.

Highlighting that the new Nyay Sanhitas will increase the productivity of every department and speed up the country's progress, Shri Modi emphasized that it will help in curbing corruption which surged due to legal hurdles. He added that most foreign investors did not want to invest in India earlier because of the fear of long and delayed justice. He further added that when this fear ends, investments would increase, thereby strengthening the country's economy.

Noting that the law of the country was for the citizens, the Prime Minister said, therefore, legal processes should also be for the convenience of the public. Highlighting the lacunae in the Indian Penal Code and the fear of the law for the honest people as against the criminals, Shri Modi said the new Nyay Sanhitas had freed the people from such troubles. He added that the Government had abolished more than 1500 old laws of British rule.

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Shri Modi urged that there was a need to broaden our perspective so that the law becomes a medium of citizen empowerment in our country. He added that there were many laws which lacked discussions and deliberations. Citing the example of abrogation of Article 370 and Triple Talaq, Shri Modi said there were a lot of discussions on it. He added that these days, the law related to the Waqf Board was also being debated. The Prime Minister stressed that there was a necessity to give the same importance to those laws which were made to increase the dignity and self-respect of the citizens. He cited the example of implementation of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, which not only empowered the Divyangs, but was also a campaign to make the society more inclusive and sensitive. He added that the Nari Shakti Vandan Act was going to lay the foundation for a similar kind of big change. Similarly, he added, the laws related to transgenders, Mediation Act, GST Act, were made, on which positive discussions have been necessary.

“The strength of any country is its citizens, and the law of the country is the strength of the citizens”, exclaimed the Prime Minister. This would encourage people to be law-abiding and this loyalty of the citizens towards the law is a big asset of the nation, said Shri Modi. He added that it was the responsibility of all of us to ensure that the trust of the citizens should not be shattered. Shri Modi urged every department, every agency, every officer and every policeman to know the new provisions of the Nyay Sanhita and understand their spirit. He urged the state governments to work actively to ensure that the Nyay Sanhita are implemented effectively, so that their impact was visible on ground. He also urged the citizens to be as aware of these new rights as possible. Remarking that there was a need to work together for this, the Prime Minister added that the more effectively the Nyay Sanhita are implemented, we would be able to give a better and brighter future to the country, which would determine the life of our children and determine our service satisfaction. Concluding the speech, Shri Modi expressed confidence that all of us would work together in this direction and increase our role in nation building.

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Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Union Territory of Chandigarh, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, Union Minister for Home Affairs and Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah and Rajya Sabha MP Shri Satnam Singh Sandhu were present among other dignitaries at the event.

Background

Prime Minister Narendra dedicated to the nation the successful implementation of three transformative new criminal laws—Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam today at Chandigarh.

The conceptualisation of the three laws was driven by the vision of the Prime Minister to remove colonial era laws which had continued to exist post independence, and to transform the judicial system by shifting focus from punishment to justice. Keeping this in mind, the theme of this programme is "Secure Society, Developed India- From Punishment to Justice".

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The new criminal laws, which were implemented nationwide on July 1, 2024, aim to make India’s legal system more transparent, efficient, and adaptable to the needs of contemporary society. These landmark reforms mark a historic overhaul of India’s criminal justice system, bringing in new frameworks to tackle modern-day challenges such as cybercrime, organized crime and ensuring justice for victims of various offenses.

The programme showcased the practical application of these laws, demonstrating how they are already reshaping the criminal justice landscape. A live demonstration was also held, simulating a crime scene investigation where the new laws were put into action.

Click here to read full text speech

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India will never compromise on the interests of its farmers: PM Modi
August 07, 2025
QuoteDr. Swaminathan led the movement to make India self-reliant in food production: PM
QuoteDr. Swaminathan went beyond biodiversity and gave the visionary concept of bio-happiness: PM
QuoteIndia will never compromise on the interests of its farmers: PM
QuoteOur government has recognised farmers' strength as the foundation of the nation's progress: PM
QuoteBuilding on the legacy of food security, the next frontier for our agricultural scientists is ensuring nutritional security for all: PM

My Cabinet colleague, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan; Chairperson of the M. S. Swaminathan Research Foundation, Dr Soumya Swaminathan; Member of NITI Aayog, Dr Ramesh Chand; I also see that many members of the Swaminathan family are present here—I extend my respectful greetings to them as well. All scientists, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen!

There are certain personalities whose contributions are not confined to a specific era or a particular geography. Professor M. S. Swaminathan was one such eminent scientist, a devoted son of Maa Bharati. He transformed science into a medium of public service. He dedicated his life to ensuring the nation’s food security. He awakened a consciousness that will continue to shape Bharat's policies and priorities for centuries to come.

I extend my greetings to all of you on the occasion of the Swaminathan Centenary Celebrations.

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Friends,

Today, 7th August, also marks National Handloom Day. Over the past ten years, the handloom sector has gained new recognition and strength across the country. I convey my greetings to all of you and to those associated with the handloom sector on this National Handloom Day.

Friends,

My association with Dr Swaminathan dates back many years. Many are aware of the earlier conditions in Gujarat—agriculture there often faced severe challenges due to droughts and cyclones, and the desert of Kutch was steadily expanding. During my tenure as Chief Minister, we began work on the Soil Health Card scheme. I vividly recall that Professor Swaminathan had shown immense interest in the initiative. He generously offered his suggestions and guided us. His contributions greatly helped in the success of this effort. It was nearly twenty years ago that I visited the centre of his research foundation in Tamil Nadu. In 2017, I had the opportunity to release his book 'The Quest for a World Without Hunger'. In 2018, when the Regional Centre of the International Rice Research Institute was inaugurated in Varanasi, we once again benefited from his guidance. Every meeting with him was a learning experience for me. He once said, “Science is not just about discovery, but delivery,” and he demonstrated this through his actions. He did not limit himself to research; he also inspired farmers to adopt new agricultural practices. Even today, his approach and ideas are visible across Bharat's agriculture sector. He was, in the truest sense, a jewel of Maa Bharati. I consider it my honour that our government had the opportunity to confer upon Dr Swaminathan the Bharat Ratna.

Friends,

Dr Swaminathan launched a mission to make Bharat self-reliant in food production. Yet, his identity extended beyond the Green Revolution. He continuously raised awareness among farmers about the rising use of chemicals in farming and the risks of monoculture farming. In other words, while he worked to increase grain production, he was equally concerned about the environment and Mother Earth. To strike a balance between the two and to address these challenges, he introduced the concept of the Green Revolution. He proposed the idea of 'bio-villages', which could empower rural communities and farmers. He promoted concepts like 'community seed banks' and 'opportunity crops'.

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Friends,

Dr Swaminathan believed that the solution to challenges like climate change and nutrition lies in the very crops we have forgotten. His focus was on drought tolerance and salt tolerance. He began work on millets—Shree Anna—at a time when no one gave them much importance. Years ago, Dr Swaminathan had recommended that the genetic traits of mangroves be transferred to rice, so that crops would become more climate-resilient. Today, as we speak of climate adaptation, we realise just how far ahead he was in his thinking.

Friends,

Today, biodiversity is a global concern, and governments around the world are taking numerous measures to protect it. But Dr Swaminathan went a step further and gave us the idea of 'biohappiness'. Today, we are here to celebrate that very concept. Dr Swaminathan used to say that the power of biodiversity could bring about a significant transformation in the lives of local communities; that through the use of local resources, new means of livelihood could be created. True to his nature, he was an expert at implementing his ideas on the ground. Through his research foundation, he consistently strove to bring the benefits of new discoveries to the farmers. Our small-scale farmers, our fishermen, our tribal communities—all have benefitted immensely from his efforts.

Friends,

Today, I am particularly pleased that the 'M. S. Swaminathan Award for Food and Peace' has been instituted to honour Professor Swaminathan’s legacy. This international award will be presented to individuals from developing countries who have made significant contributions in the field of food security. Food and peace—the relationship between the two is not only philosophical but also deeply practical. In our Upanishads, it is stated: अन्नम् न निन्द्यात्, तद् व्रतम्। प्राणो वा अन्नम्। शरीरम् अन्नादम्। प्राणे शरीरम् प्रतिष्ठितम्। That is, one must not disrespect food. Food supports life.

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Therefore, friends,

If there is a crisis of food, then there is a crisis of life. And when the lives of lakhs are at risk, global unrest naturally follows. This is why the ‘M. S. Swaminathan Award for Food and Peace’ is of utmost importance. I heartily congratulate the first recipient of this award, the talented scientist from Nigeria, Professor Akinwumi Adesina.

Friends,

Today, Indian agriculture has reached great heights, and I am certain that wherever Dr Swaminathan is, he would be proud. Today, Bharat ranks first in the production of milk, pulses, and jute. Bharat is second in the production of rice, wheat, cotton, fruits, and vegetables. Bharat is also the world's second-largest producer of fish. Last year, Bharat recorded its highest-ever food grain production. We are also setting new records in oilseeds. The production of soybean, mustard, and groundnut has risen to record levels.

Friends,

For us, the welfare of our farmers is of the highest priority. Bharat will never compromise on the interests of its farmers, livestock rearers, and fishermen. And I am fully aware that I may have to pay a very heavy price personally, but I am prepared for it. For the farmers of my country, for the fishermen of my country, for the livestock rearers of my country, Bharat stands ready today. We are continuously working towards increasing farmers’ incomes, reducing their agricultural expenditure, and creating new sources of income.

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Friends,

Our government has regarded the strength of farmers as the foundation of the nation's progress. That is why the policies framed in recent years have not merely extended assistance, but have also sought to build trust among farmers. The direct financial support provided through the PM-KISAN Samman Nidhi has empowered small farmers with self-confidence. The PM Fasal Bima Yojana has given them protection from risk. Issues related to irrigation have been addressed through the PM Krishi Sinchai Yojana. The creation of 10,000 FPOs has enhanced the collective strength of small farmers. Financial support to cooperatives and self-help groups has given fresh momentum to the rural economy. Thanks to e-NAM, it has become easier for farmers to sell their produce. The PM Kisan Sampada Yojana has accelerated the establishment of new food processing units and storage infrastructure. Recently, the PM Dhan Dhanya Yojana has also been approved. Under this scheme, 100 districts where agriculture has remained backward have been selected. By providing infrastructure and financial assistance to farmers in these districts, a new sense of confidence is being instilled in farming.

Friends,

21st-century Bharat is working with full dedication to become a developed nation. And this goal will be achieved only through the contribution of every class, every profession. Taking inspiration from Dr Swaminathan, our scientists now have yet another opportunity to create history. The scientists of the previous generation ensured food security—now there is a need to focus on nutritional security. We must promote bio-fortified and nutrition-rich crops on a large scale to improve people’s health. We must also demonstrate greater urgency in reducing the use of chemicals and promoting natural farming.

Friends,

You are well aware of the challenges related to climate change. We must develop as many varieties of climate-resilient crops as possible. The focus must be on drought-tolerant, heat-resistant, and flood-adaptive crops. More research is required on crop rotation, and on identifying which crops are best suited to which soil types. Alongside this, we must also develop affordable soil testing tools and effective methods of nutrient management.

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Friends,

We need to do much more in the field of solar-powered micro-irrigation. We must make drip systems and precision irrigation more widespread and effective. Can we integrate satellite data, AI, and machine learning? Can we develop a system that can forecast crop yields, monitor pests, and guide sowing? Can such a real-time decision support system be made available in every district? All of you must continue guiding agri-tech startups. Today, a large number of innovative young people are working to solve the problems faced in agriculture. If you, with your experience, continue to mentor them, the products they develop will be more impactful and more user-friendly.

Friends,

Our farmers and farming communities possess a treasure trove of traditional knowledge. By integrating traditional Indian agricultural practices with modern science, a holistic knowledge base can be created. Crop diversification is today a national priority. We must explain to our farmers its significance. We must convey what the benefits are, and also what the consequences of not adopting it might be. And in this task, you are best placed to make a real impact.

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Friends,

Last year, when I visited the Pusa campus on 11th August, I had urged that efforts be increased to take agricultural technology from the 'lab to the land'. I am pleased that the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan was launched during May–June. For the first time, scientists' teams—around 2,200 in number—participated across more than 700 districts in the country. Over 60,000 programmes were conducted, and, more importantly, direct engagement was established with around 1.25 crore aware and informed farmers. This effort by our scientists to reach more and more farmers is truly commendable.

Friends,

Dr M. S. Swaminathan taught us that agriculture is not just about crops—agriculture is life itself. The dignity of every individual connected to the field, the well-being of every farming community, and the protection of nature—these form the very strength of our government's agricultural policy. We must weave together science and society, place the interests of the small farmer at the heart of our efforts, and empower the women who work in the fields. Let us move ahead with this very goal in mind, with the inspiration of Dr Swaminathan guiding us all.

Once again, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all of you on this special occasion.

Thank you very much.