New Delhi,– Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in the 125th edition of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, urged citizens to celebrate upcoming festivals with Swadeshi pride under the mantra ‘Vocal for Local, Atmanirbhar Bharat, Developed India.’
Addressing the nation, PM Modi said, “Say with pride – this is Swadeshi. Every gift, attire, and decoration during festivals should be India-made. Cleanliness and self-reliance should become part of our celebration.”
At the outset, the Prime Minister highlighted the devastating floods and landslides that struck several states in recent weeks. He praised the relentless efforts of NDRF-SDRF teams, armed forces, doctors, and local communities. “Humanity stood above everything else. Every citizen who helped in this hour of crisis deserves heartfelt gratitude,” he said.
PM Modi expressed pride in two landmark events in Jammu and Kashmir – Pulwama hosting its first-ever day-night cricket match and Dal Lake in Srinagar witnessing the country’s maiden Khelo India Water Sports Festival. More than 800 athletes, including women, participated in the festival.
The Prime Minister also interacted with young champions – Odisha’s canoeist Rashmita Sahu, who bagged two gold medals, and Srinagar’s Mohsin Ali, who won gold and aspires to bring Olympic glory. “The youth of Jammu & Kashmir have immense talent, and their achievements are inspiring the entire country,” PM Modi said.
In a major announcement, PM Modi unveiled ‘Pratibha Setu’, a digital platform designed for UPSC aspirants who clear multiple stages of exams but narrowly miss the final list. The databank, already hosting over 10,000 profiles, connects these bright minds with private sector opportunities. “This effort is already bearing fruit as hundreds of candidates have secured jobs,” the Prime Minister shared.
PM Modi recalled his conversation on a podcast with Lex Fridman, which inspired German coach Dietmar Beiersdorfer to train young footballers from Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh, in Germany. He also highlighted the unveiling of Maharishi Valmiki’s statue in Italy, a 51-foot statue of Lord Shri Ram in Canada, and Ramayana-themed art exhibitions in Vladivostok, Russia.
The Prime Minister narrated the inspiring journey of Devki Devi from Muzaffarpur, Bihar – popularly known as ‘Solar Didi’. By introducing solar pumps in her village, she transformed irrigation for more than 40 acres of land, improved farmers’ income, and encouraged digital payments through UPI.
PM Modi paid tributes to legendary engineer M. Visvesvaraya ahead of Engineers’ Day on September 15, and remembered artisans on Vishwakarma Jayanti (September 17). He also recalled Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s decisive role in Hyderabad’s liberation during Operation Polo, marking September’s Hyderabad Liberation Day.
Concluding the address, PM Modi urged citizens to observe Ganesh Utsav and upcoming festivals with a sense of national pride. “One Mantra – Vocal for Local, One Path – Atmanirbhar Bharat, One Goal – Developed India,” he reiterated.
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