Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday described his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat as a “pilgrimage”, saying it has provided an opportunity to understand the efforts of ordinary Indians and acknowledge
their contributions.
Addressing the 139th episode of Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi recalled that the programme began 12 years ago on the occasion of Vijayadashami and has continued uninterrupted since then.
“Twelve years ago, on the auspicious occasion of Vijayadashami, we began ‘Mann Ki Baat’. Since then, our journey has continued uninterrupted. All of you have been both fellow travellers and guides on this journey,” the Prime Minister said.
He said the programme had enabled him to highlight the hard work, courage, commitment and dedication of people across the country, along with their spirit of service.
“For me, ‘Mann Ki Baat’ has been a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the hard work, courage, commitment, dedication and spirit of service of the common man of our country,” PM Modi said.
Drawing a parallel with India’s centuries-old tradition of pilgrimages, the prime minister said the programme was an opportunity to understand people’s efforts closely and pay tribute to their contributions.
“Our country has had a tradition of pilgrimages for centuries. For me, ‘Mann Ki Baat’ is no less than a pilgrimage, a journey to closely understand the efforts of people of the country and to pay tribute to their contributions,” he said.
During the broadcast, PM Modi also highlighted community-led initiatives in Punjab and Uttarakhand.
Referring to Punjab, the Prime Minister spoke about an initiative aimed at reviving traditional farming practices, describing it as an inspiring effort.
He also highlighted a community effort in Uttarakhand to revive the Heval River and restore natural water sources.
The initiatives formed part of the programme’s focus on efforts by individuals and communities to preserve traditional practices and protect natural resources.
