Mann Ki Baat is a Pilgrimage: PM Modi Salutes Ordinary Indians' Spirit
PM Narendra Modi celebrates ordinary citizens, traditional farming in Punjab, and river revival in Uttarakhand in the 139th episode of Mann Ki Baat.
In the 139th episode of his monthly radio programme, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described PM Modi Mann Ki Baat as more than just a broadcast, equating the experience to a spiritual journey or a pilgrimage. Reflecting on the 12-year history of the show, which began on the auspicious occasion of Vijayadashami, the Prime Minister emphasized that the programme serves as a platform to celebrate the courage, dedication, and spirit of service exhibited by the common citizens of India.
The Prime Minister noted that for over a decade, the listeners have acted as both fellow travellers and guides, allowing him to closely understand the grassroots efforts and contributions of people across the nation.
Reviving Roots: Traditional Farming in Punjab
A significant portion of the episode was dedicated to the revival of ancestral agricultural wisdom. PM Modi highlighted the 'Nav-Trinjan' initiative in the Malwa region of Punjab, led by the 'Kheti Virasat Mission'. This movement is working to bring back organic farming and traditional agricultural practices that had been sidelined over time.
The Prime Minister shared key details about the initiative:
- Chemical-Free Cotton: The project promotes the cultivation of organic cotton without the use of harmful chemicals.
- Natural Colors: The initiative has successfully reintroduced the cultivation of naturally coloured cotton.
- Empowering Women: Beyond the fields, 'Nav-Trinjan' has established a weaving school. This effort ensures that traditional weaving skills are passed down to the younger generation, significantly transforming the lives of many local women.
Bringing Back the Heval River in Uttarakhand
Turning his attention to environmental conservation, the Prime Minister praised a community-led miracle in the Tehri Garhwal region of Uttarakhand. He spoke about the Heval River, which had seen a drastic decline in water levels, leading to the drying up of nearby natural water sources.
In a powerful display of unity, the local administration and villagers joined forces to save the river. The Prime Minister explained that the revival was achieved through a comprehensive strategy involving:
- Rainwater Conservation: Implementing measures to capture and store rain.
- Groundwater Recharge: Focused efforts to replenish the water table.
- Afforestation: Large-scale tree plantation drives along the river basin.
As a result of these collective efforts, the Heval River has been revitalised, and dozens of natural water sources in the region have been restored to their former glory.
Widespread Listenership
The episode saw high-profile listeners across the country, including Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, Bihar BJP State President Sanjay Saraogi, and Bihar Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha, among other BJP leaders, all tuning in to hear the Prime Minister's reflections on the nation's grassroots progress.