India Unites to Overcome Calamities and Preserve Cultural Heritage: PM’s ‘Mann Ki Baat’ Address
TFP Bureau, New Delhi, 30 July 2023: In the 103rd episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended a warm welcome to the nation and addressed the ongoing challenges posed by natural calamities in India. He expressed his deep concern for the hardships faced by citizens due to heavy flooding and landslides caused by the monsoon rains, particularly in areas like Gujarat and the Yamuna river basin. However, the Prime Minister commended the spirit of collective effort displayed by the people, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and local administrations in combatting these disasters.
The Prime Minister highlighted the significance of the monsoon season for tree plantation and water conservation. He praised the Amrit Sarovar initiative launched during the ‘Azaadi ka Amrit Mahotsav,’ with over 60 thousand Amrit Sarovars already built and more under construction. He also shared inspiring examples of water conservation efforts, like the tribal community in Pakaria village, Madhya Pradesh, who converted wells into water recharge systems to improve groundwater levels. In Uttar Pradesh, a record-breaking 30 crore trees were planted in a single day, showcasing the power of public participation and awareness in preserving the environment.
PM Modi emphasized the cultural and spiritual significance of the holy month of ‘Saawan’, where festivals like Kanwar Yatra and pilgrimages to Banaras, Ayodhya, Mathura, and Ujjain were observed with increasing enthusiasm. He shared stories of foreign nationals who undertook the Amarnath Yatra and practiced yoga in India, reflecting India’s welcoming and inclusive nature.
The Prime Minister celebrated the return of over a hundred rare and ancient artifacts from America, dating back 2500 to 250 years. These invaluable pieces, made of terracotta, stone, metal, and wood, are connected to various regions and cultures of India. PM Modi thanked the American government for their efforts in returning this heritage, underscoring the importance of preserving India’s rich cultural legacy.
Highlighting the power of individual efforts, the Prime Minister lauded Suresh Raghavan from Tamil Nadu, who documents information about endangered flora and fauna through paintings. He also praised the women of Niti-Mana valley in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, who transformed their erstwhile cultural heritage of Bhojpatra into a means of livelihood, creating unique artefacts and souvenirs.
Addressing societal issues, PM Modi expressed appreciation for the Haj Policy changes that allowed over four thousand Muslim women to perform Hajj without a male companion. He urged everyone to join the ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan’ to combat drug addiction, highlighting recent actions where India seized and destroyed a vast quantity of drugs.
The Prime Minister shared the inspirational journey of Bicharpur village in Shahdol, Madhya Pradesh, which transformed from a hub of illicit liquor and addiction to a thriving football center, known as ‘Mini Brazil.’ He encouraged all citizens to participate in the upcoming ‘Meri Mati Mera Desh’ campaign to honor the sacrifices of martyrs and preserve India’s rich heritage.
Concluding the address, PM Modi called for hoisting the tricolor at every home on Independence Day and urged citizens to uphold their duties and work towards fulfilling the ‘Panch Prana’ resolves. He emphasized that ‘Mann Ki Baat’ serves as a platform to bring the nation’s collective efforts to the forefront, as the country continues to strive for progress and unity.
As the 15th of August approaches, the Prime Minister called on everyone to remember the freedom fighters and their sacrifices, while working tirelessly to realize their dreams for a prosperous and united India.
