In his last Mann Ki Baat for 2016, Modi urges nation to opt for cashless routes

The Prime Minister on Sunday started his monthly radio address by wishing people Merry Christmas, sharing his birthday wishes for former Indian PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee and also remembered Pt. Madan Mohan Malaviya on his Jayanti.

In an attempt to promote cashless modes, Modi said: "Government has launched 2 schemes today, for consumer the scheme is called 'Lucky Grahak Yojana' and for small traders 'Digi Dhan Vyapar Yojana'."

He said awareness towards online payments and using technology for economic transactions is increasing.

Speaking about the two news schemes, Modi said: "This scheme will last for 100 days (from Sunday). As such lakhs of people will get crores of rupee Award schemes have been launched to encourage shift to cashless."

Modi said there has been 200-300% growth in cashless transactions after Nov 8, the day when he announced the demonetisation initiative.

"Like last month, many suggestions, inputs and comments were based on the decision on our fight against corruption and black money," said the PM.

He said people have written to him in detail about the difficulties faced by people following notes ban and have also given suggestions.

"Many are writing that the fight against corruption has to continue," Modi continued.

In a surprise statement, he said the raids that are being carried out across the country are mostly based on inputs from common people.

He said attempts are being made to spread rumours and some people claimed that even Rs. 100 and Rs. 10 notes will also be scrapped.

"I salute people for unmasking those spreading rumours," he said.

Speaking about the frequent changes in rules by the RBI, Modi said: "Based on the feedback and response of citizens, we are changing rules for convenience of people."

He also announced that people who are taking cashless modes for making payments may get a tax benefit too.