In the 118th episode of his popular radio program Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed a special message to the nation ahead of India’s Republic Day celebrations. He noted that Mann Ki Baat typically airs on the last Sunday of every month, but this time the episode was broadcast a week earlier, on the third Sunday of January, due to the Republic Day festivities on January 26.
"You must have noticed one thing, every time Mann Ki Baat takes place on the last Sunday of the month. But this time, we are meeting a week before, on the third Sunday of the month, instead of the fourth, because next Sunday is Republic Day," Modi said, extending early Republic Day wishes to the nation.
The Prime Minister stressed the historical importance of this year’s Republic Day, marking 75 years since the adoption of the Constitution of India. "This Republic Day is very special. This year marks 75 years of the implementation of the Constitution of India. I bow to all those great personalities of the Constituent Assembly, who gave us our sacred Constitution," he stated.
PM Modi also acknowledged the significance of National Voters' Day, celebrated on January 25, recognizing the efforts of the Election Commission of India in strengthening the democratic process. He emphasised the role of technology in modernising the voting process and ensuring fair elections. "I congratulate the Election Commission for its commitment to fair elections. I urge the countrymen to vote in large numbers and participate in the country's democratic processes," Modi added.
Mann Ki Baat has become a platform for public engagement, offering citizens a direct channel to communicate with the Prime Minister. Since its inception in October 2014, the program has reached millions, fostering discussions on a range of national issues. In a recent initiative, PM Modi invited citizens to contribute to the celebration of the 75th anniversary of the Indian Constitution by uploading videos of themselves reading the Preamble in various languages on Constitution75.com.
PM Modi also spoke about the growing involvement of the youth in cultural and spiritual events, particularly the Kumbh Mela. He remarked, "You must have seen that the youth are extensively participating in Kumbh. It is true that when the young generation proudly joins its civilization, then its roots become stronger and its golden future is assured." He also highlighted the growing digital presence at the Kumbh, stating, "This time we are also witnessing the digital footprints on a large scale in Kumbh." This reflected the integration of modern technology with traditional events, showcasing the youth's deep connection with India's heritage while embracing the digital age.
In the same episode, the Prime Minister praised several national initiatives and achievements. He highlighted the innovative efforts of Assam’s ‘Hathi Bandhu’ team, which has devised a unique approach to protect crops from elephant damage, thus addressing human-animal conflict.
Additionally, PM Modi celebrated the creation of two new Tiger Reserves in India, Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla in Chhattisgarh and Ratapani in Madhya Pradesh, marking a significant step in wildlife conservation. "These reserves reflect India’s ongoing commitment to preserving its biodiversity," Modi remarked.
PM Modi also applauded the flourishing startup ecosystem in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, noting the growing entrepreneurial spirit in smaller towns. He also acknowledged the remarkable selfless service of individuals like Deepak Nabam Ji from Arunachal Pradesh and praised the efforts of K. Hindumbi Ji and K.G. Mohammed Ji from Lakshadweep.
The Prime Minister also celebrated the recognition of Virgin Coconut Oil from Nicobar, which was granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, marking a significant milestone for the region’s economy.
In another exciting development, PM Modi shared that Bengaluru's Pixxel, an Indian space-tech startup, has successfully launched India’s first private satellite constellation, "Firefly." This constellation is the world's highest-resolution hyperspectral satellite constellation, a major leap for India’s space sector.
PM Modi concluded his address by paying tribute to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on his birth anniversary, hailing his vision and courage in India’s fight for independence. The episode reflected the country’s progress in various sectors, including democracy, conservation, technology, and selfless service, highlighting India’s achievements and its future potential.
This Mann Ki Baat episode not only celebrated India’s rich heritage and accomplishments but also highlighted the nation’s progress in various sectors, including democracy, conservation, youth participation, and selfless service.
The ‘Mann Ki Baat' program aims to connect with all sections of society, including women, the elderly, and the youth, empowering them to contribute to nation-building actively. The initiative has become a cornerstone of PM Modi’s outreach efforts, encouraging citizens to engage in social causes and work toward progress.