NEW DELHI: In the 137th episode of Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted grassroots initiatives and individuals creating change through technology, social action, entrepreneurship and community participation. He began by discussing a digital initiative by Mumbai-based Krishna Sheshadri that uses technology to make Indian history more engaging.PM Modi then called for greater public participation in the campaign for a drug-free India, particularly among young people.He also spoke about the patriotic spirit surrounding August, including Har Ghar Tiranga, National Handloom Day, the Quit India Movement anniversary, Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, Independence Day and National Space Day.He highlighted women street vendors benefiting from PM SVANidhi, citing examples from Ghaziabad and Bengaluru.Cleanliness was another major theme, with PM Modi highlighting young volunteers in Uttar Pradesh and sanitation efforts during the Amarnath Yatra. He then showcased individuals turning personal interests and environmental conservation into livelihoods, including a flower farmer in Nagaland and women involved in ecotourism and forest conservation in Odisha.
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The Prime Minister also highlighted Mission ShaktiSAT, which is bringing thousands of girls from across the world into satellite technology and innovation. He discussed the growing cultivation of avocado by Indian farmers, paid tribute to Bengali cinema icon Uttam Kumar ahead of his birth centenary, and ended by speaking about Janmashtami, Vishwakarma Puja, Diwali and the importance of buying Indian-made products under the Vocal for Local campaign.
Top quotes from the episode
- The campaign ‘Drug-Free Youth for Developed India’ is rapidly gaining momentum across the country. Its objective is absolutely clear: a drug-free youth, a drug-free India. Drug addiction does not engulf only one person. Its consequences are also suffered by the entire family and society. I would appreciate those who raise awareness among others against drugs and come forward to help people struggling with addiction.
- In the month of August, we see many colours of patriotism everywhere. From National Handloom Day and the anniversary of the Quit India Movement to Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, these occasions make the month special. The Har Ghar Tiranga campaign strengthens this feeling further. This year has become even more special because 150 years of Vande Mataram are being completed.”
- PM SVANidhi scheme is giving new strength to millions of such mothers and sisters. This aspect of women’s empowerment does not receive as much discussion as it should. Around 46 per cent of the beneficiaries of PM SVANidhi are women. That means nearly 35 lakh women across the country are connected with this scheme and are taking their businesses forward.
- This year, we saw a similarly inspiring picture of cleanliness and public participation during the Shri Amarnath Yatra. Thousands of sanitation workers remained engaged in service day and night on difficult routes. More than 400 metric tonnes of waste was collected and processed during the pilgrimage this year. One aspect of this effort particularly pleased me.
- Vaishalu Puroji from Phek district of Nagaland began growing flowers on a small scale. Gradually, she began to see an opportunity in it. During this journey, she received training in scientific flower cultivation from the local Krishi Vigyan Kendra. She then planted thousands of gladiolus plants on just one-quarter of an acre of land. More than 5,000 flowers bloomed in her very first attempt.
- Today, the dreams of our daughters are travelling from the Earth all the way into space. And you will be proud to know that India is bringing together thousands of girls from across the world who dream of achieving such things. The name of this effort is Mission ShaktiSAT. Through it, 12,000 female students from 108 countries are getting an opportunity to learn satellite technology and move forward in the field of innovation.”
- During this festive season, I once again repeat my appeal for Vocal for Local. And Vocal for Local does not simply mean buying earthen lamps. Its vision is much broader. Whatever we buy for our homes, let us check once whether it has been made in India. I appeal to you to adopt Vocal for Local yourself and also inspire others to do the same.
