In the 118th episode of his popular radio program 'Mann Ki Baat,' Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a special message ahead of the Republic Day celebrations. This was the first episode of 'Mann Ki Baat' for the year. The program is usually broadcasted on the last Sunday of every month, and this month's last Sunday coincided with January 26, the Republic Day. Hence, the broadcast was scheduled a week earlier.
Prime Minister Modi extended heartfelt wishes to all Indians for Republic Day in advance, remarking that this year's Republic Day is especially significant as it marks the 75th anniversary of the Indian Republic and 75 years since the Constitution's enforcement. He expressed his salutations to the eminent personalities of the Constituent Assembly who gifted us our sacred Constitution. Prime Minister Modi also highlighted National Voters' Day, celebrated on January 25, and its importance.
PM Modi Lauds the Election Commission in Mann Ki Baat
He stated, 'January 25 is National Voters' Day. This day holds importance as the Election Commission of India was established on this day. Our Constitution makers have given a prominent place to the Election Commission in our democracy, emphasizing people's participation. I thank the Election Commission for modernizing and strengthening our electoral process over time, leveraging technology to empower the people. I commend their commitment to conducting free and fair elections.'
Explore: 'Celebration of Unity in Diversity,' PM Modi Highlights the Significance of Kumbh in Mann Ki Baat, Watch
Discussing the Kumbh Mela, Prime Minister Modi shared, 'The Kumbh has commenced in Prayagraj, witnessing an incredible congregation of people and a remarkable blend of parities and unity. This year, the Kumbh brings several divine alignments. It celebrates unity amid diversity as people from across India and the world gather on the sands of the Sangam. This age-old tradition fosters no discrimination or casteism. Events like Kumbh, Pushkaram, and the Ganga Sagar fair strengthens social harmony, understanding, and unity, binding people to India's traditions.'
Congratulations to ISRO on Space Docking Achievement
Highlighting India's accomplishments in the space sector, Prime Minister Modi expressed pride, announcing that an Indian space-tech startup, Bangalore-based Pixxel, successfully launched India's first private satellite constellation, 'Firefly.' This constellation is the world's highest-resolution hyperspectral satellite constellation. Recently, our scientists achieved another significant milestone in the space sector by enabling space docking of satellites, making India the fourth country to accomplish this feat. I extend my congratulations to ISRO and our scientists for this achievement.
Why Did PM Modi Mention Assam's Nagaon?
In the 118th episode of 'Mann Ki Baat,' PM Modi said, 'Nagaon in Assam is not only the birthplace of our illustrious figure Shankardev but also a beautiful place with a substantial elephant habitat. In this region, multiple incidents occurred where elephant herds damaged crops, causing distress to nearly 100 surrounding villages. However, understanding the elephants' plight, villagers strategized to resolve these conflicts. A team known as 'Hathi Bandhu' was formed. Displaying ingenuity, they planted Napier grass on approximately 800 bighas of barren land. Elephants favored this grass, leading to reduced instances of crop raids.' Prime Minister Modi congratulated the farmers of Nagaon for their effort.
Explore: Raj Kapoor, Rafi Sahab... PM Modi Remembers These Icons in Mann Ki Baat, Watch
PM Modi noted that our culture and heritage teach us to coexist lovingly with surrounding flora and fauna. It is heartening that, over the last two months, two new tiger reserves have been added in our country: the Guru Ghasidas- Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve in Chhattisgarh and Ratapani Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh. Moreover, Start-Up India marked its nine-year milestone recently. More than half of the startups in India formed within these nine years originate from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, which fills every Indian with pride, showing that our startup culture is not limited to major cities.
Commending the Work of Arunachal's Deepak Nabam
Prime Minister Modi highlighted Deepak Nabam from Arunachal Pradesh in his 'Mann Ki Baat' program, commending him for service excellence. Deepak runs Living-Home in Arunachal Pradesh, caring for mentally challenged, physically incapacitated, and elderly people. The institution also rehabilitates individuals suffering from drug addiction. PM Modi mentioned the recent GI Tag awarded to Nicobar's Virgin Coconut Oil and the collective organization of women involved in its production into self-help groups, imparting substantial marketing and branding training, economically empowering our tribal communities.
PM Modi Remembers Subhas Chandra Bose
Prime Minister Modi mentioned that January 23 is commemorated as 'Parakram Diwas' to honor Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's birth anniversary. His tales of valor also mirror his heroism. A few years back, I visited the very house from which he eluded the British. His vehicle is still there today, and the experience was particularly distinctive for me. PM stated that Subhas Babu was not only visionary with embedded courage but also a skilled administrator.
