In the 128th episode of his monthly radio program, Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered an inspiring address that celebrated India's diverse achievements while reinforcing the nation's cultural bonds. The broadcast, which aired on Sunday, served as a powerful platform to acknowledge sporting triumphs, developmental milestones, and the upcoming Kashi-Tamil Sangamam.
Celebrating a Month of National Pride
Prime Minister Modi began by reflecting on the significant events of November, which he described as a month filled with historic and developmental accomplishments. He highlighted the nationwide celebrations marking the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram, a moment of immense patriotic fervor. Another landmark event mentioned was the hoisting of the Dharmadhwaja at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, a deeply symbolic moment for millions.
On the economic front, the Prime Minister proudly announced a historic record in food grain production, which reached 357 million tonnes. This achievement underscores the robustness of India's agricultural sector. Further showcasing technological advancement, he spoke about inaugurating the world's largest LEAP engine MRO facility in Hyderabad for civil aircraft and the opening of the Skyroot Infinity Campus in the same city. The induction of the INS Mahe into the Indian Navy in Mumbai was also noted as a key step in bolstering national security.
A Salute to India's Sporting Heroes
November was declared a super hit for Indian sports by the Prime Minister, who took the opportunity to praise the nation's athletes for their exceptional performances on the global stage. He specifically commended the Indian women's cricket team for winning the ICC World Cup, a victory that has inspired the entire country.
The Prime Minister also lauded India's impressive performance at the Deaflympics held in Tokyo, showcasing the determination of differently-abled athletes. Other teams that received special mention included the women's Kabaddi team that clinched the World Cup and the women's Blind Cricket team that also won the World Cup. These victories, he emphasized, reflect the growing strength and spirit of Indian sports.
Strengthening the Spirit of Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat
A significant portion of the address was dedicated to the upcoming fourth edition of the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam, scheduled to begin on December 2 in Varanasi. Prime Minister Modi revealed that this year's event has an interesting theme: Tamil Karkalam, or Learn Tamil.
He described the confluence of Kashi, one of the world's oldest cities, and Tamil, the world's oldest language, as a wonderful experience that strengthens national unity. The Prime Minister noted that the Sangamam has become a vital platform for Tamil language enthusiasts and that the people of Kashi are eagerly awaiting to welcome their brothers and sisters from Tamil Nadu with full enthusiasm.
In a heartfelt gesture, PM Modi spoke a few lines in Tamil, which translated to: Tamil culture is great, Tamil language is great, and Tamil is the pride of India. He urged all citizens to participate in the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam and other similar platforms that fortify the spirit of Ek Bharat-Shrestha Bharat (One India, Great India).
Vocal for Local and Global Outreach
Reiterating his flagship Vocal for Local campaign, the Prime Minister shared an example from the recent G20 summit in South Africa. He informed the nation that he presented gifts to world leaders that were crafted by local artists from states like Rajasthan, Telangana, and Kerala.
Ahead of the festive Christmas and New Year period, he reminded citizens to embrace this mantra. Remember the mantra of 'vocal for local', he urged, buy only what is made in the country, sell only what bears the hard work of a citizen of the country.
PM Modi also spoke about his recent visit to Bhutan and the positive response to India sending Buddhist relics there. He mentioned that similar initiatives to share sacred Buddhist relics were undertaken in countries like Russia, Vietnam, Mongolia, and Thailand, with even the King of Thailand visiting for a darshan. This, he said, demonstrates the deep global connection to the sacred relics of Bhagwan Buddha.
Finally, the Prime Minister highlighted the growing potential of winter tourism in India, pointing to destinations like Auli, Munsyari, Chopta, and Deyara that are gaining popularity. He also noted the upcoming winter games in Uttarakhand and the trend of hills becoming preferred locations for destination weddings.
