New Delhi: As India continued to bask in the glow of the festive season, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation in the 127th episode of his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’. The Prime Minister spoke about India’s unity through festivals, the country’s growing self-reliance, and inspiring stories of social change, environmental conservation, and cultural resurgence.
He began by extending greetings for Chhath Puja, calling it a “Mahaparva” that beautifully connects “culture, nature, and society.” Modi described the festival as a powerful symbol of India’s social unity, where people from all walks of life gather at ghats to offer prayers and share devotion. He saluted the women observing Chhath, calling their commitment “truly inspiring.”
“Wherever you are, within the country or abroad, participate in Chhath and experience the emotion yourself,” the Prime Minister urged, extending wishes especially to the people of Bihar, Jharkhand, and Purvanchal.
National Pride and ‘Operation Sindoor’
Modi reflected on his recent letter to citizens during the festival season, in which he highlighted India’s progress and achievements that have added more joy to celebrations this year. Among these, he mentioned ‘Operation Sindoor’, a rescue operation that, he said, “filled every Indian with pride.” He spoke of how even in regions once troubled by Maoist violence, “lamps of joy” were lit this Diwali — a sign, he said, of the nation’s growing hope and peace.
The Prime Minister noted an enthusiastic response to the ‘GST Bachat Utsav’, which promoted indigenous products and local manufacturing. “The purchase of indigenous goods in the markets has increased tremendously,” he said, adding that many citizens had written to him about choosing Indian-made items this festive season. He also mentioned his appeal for a 10 percent reduction in the use of edible oils, saying that people had responded positively to the call.
Grassroots Innovation and Clean India Stories
Modi spotlighted stories from across India that demonstrate how ordinary citizens are driving extraordinary change. From Ambikapur, Chhattisgarh, he shared the story of Garbage Cafés — innovative eateries run by the local municipal corporation, where people receive meals in exchange for plastic waste. “If someone brings one kilogram of plastic, they get a full meal. For half a kilogram, they get breakfast,” he explained.
In Bengaluru, the Prime Minister praised engineer Kapil Sharma, who has led a campaign to revive the city’s lakes and wells. “He and his team have rejuvenated 40 wells and 6 lakes, involving both corporates and local residents,” Modi said, calling it a shining example of community-driven environmental restoration.
Nature’s Guardians: Mangroves of Gujarat
Turning his focus to environmental sustainability, Modi lauded Gujarat’s efforts to expand mangrove cover. He highlighted the Dholera coast project, where the Forest Department’s five-year campaign has led to the growth of mangroves over 3,500 hectares. “The mangroves have revived the local ecosystem — the number of dolphins, crabs, and migratory birds has risen significantly,” he said, adding that this ecological improvement has also benefited local fish farmers.
A Mangrove Learning Centre has also been established in Kori Creek, Kutch, he noted, encouraging citizens to support tree-planting initiatives such as ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ (One Tree in Mother’s Name).
Quoting a Sanskrit verse, the Prime Minister reminded listeners: “Blessed are the trees and plants from whom those who seek never return disappointed.”
Honouring Indian Dog Breeds
In a shift of tone, Modi revisited a topic he had once discussed — promoting Indian breeds of dogs in security forces. He said that the BSF and CRPF have taken major steps in this direction, with the BSF’s National Training Centre in Tekanpur focusing on breeds like the Rampur Hound and Mudhol Hound.
Highlighting their achievements, Modi mentioned Ria, a Mudhol Hound that won first prize at the All India Police Duty Meet in Lucknow last year, outperforming several foreign breeds. “The BSF has now begun giving Indian names to its dogs,” he said proudly, adding that one CRPF dog recently detected 8 kilograms of explosives in Chhattisgarh, preventing a major tragedy.
The Prime Minister invited citizens to watch the Ekta Diwas Parade on 31st October — Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s birth anniversary — where these Indian breeds would once again be showcased.
Tribute to Sardar Patel and the Spirit of Unity
Modi paid rich tributes to Sardar Patel, calling him “one of the greatest luminaries of modern India.” He spoke of Patel’s brilliance as a lawyer and his unwavering commitment to the freedom struggle under Mahatma Gandhi’s influence. “We will forever be indebted to him for uniting India and laying the foundation of a strong administrative framework,” he said.
He urged people to participate in the Run for Unity being held across the country on 31st October, calling it “an opportunity for youth awakening” and a “true tribute” to the Iron Man of India.
Koraput Coffee and India’s Brewing Success Story
With a smile, Modi said that while his bond with tea is well known, he wanted to talk about coffee this time. After having discussed Araku coffee earlier, he now spotlighted Koraput coffee from Odisha, describing it as “truly delectable and a matter of pride for the state.”
He praised local entrepreneurs and women farmers who have embraced coffee cultivation in Koraput, some of whom left corporate jobs to pursue this passion. “They have gained both respect and prosperity through coffee,” he said.
Modi also noted the global rise of Indian coffee, from Chikmagalur and Coorg in Karnataka to Wayanad in Kerala and Nilgiris in Tamil Nadu, adding that even the North-East is now emerging as a coffee hub. “India’s coffee is coffee at its finest. It is brewed in India and loved by the world,” he remarked.
150 Years of ‘Vande Mataram’
Speaking emotionally, the Prime Minister reminded citizens that 7th November marks the beginning of the 150th year of ‘Vande Mataram’, the national song written by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay and first sung by Rabindranath Tagore in 1896.
“‘Vande Mataram’ evokes a surge of patriotism. It symbolises the eternal bond between motherland and her children,” Modi said. He urged citizens to share their ideas and celebrations for #VandeMataram150, encouraging cultural programmes across the nation.
The Revival of Sanskrit
Modi also celebrated a new wave of enthusiasm for Sanskrit among the youth, crediting social media for reviving the ancient language. He mentioned content creators like Yash Salunke, who mixes cricket with Sanskrit commentary, and sisters Kamala and Janhavi, who create content on spirituality and philosophy. Others like Bhavesh Bhimnathani and Samashti were praised for using Sanskrit in music and humour.
“Language carries the values and traditions of a civilisation. It is heartening that our youth are now carrying forward this responsibility,” he said.
Remembering Tribal Icons: Komaram Bheem and Birsa Munda
In a powerful tribute, the Prime Minister recalled the courage of Komaram Bheem, a 20-year-old revolutionary who fought the Nizam’s oppression in Hyderabad. “He lived only 40 years, but his name became immortal,” Modi said, urging youth to learn about such heroes.
He also paid homage to Bhagwan Birsa Munda, whose Janajateeya Gaurav Diwas will be observed on 15th November. “Birsa Munda’s struggle for India’s freedom and tribal rights is unmatched,” the PM said, recalling his emotional visit to Birsa’s birthplace, Ulihatu in Jharkhand.
Concluding the address, Modi thanked citizens for continuously writing to him about inspiring individuals and community initiatives across India. “If you know of such people or groups working selflessly for society, do share their stories,” he appealed.
Signing off with his customary warmth, the Prime Minister said, “We’ll meet again next month with new topics and new inspirations. Until then, thank you all very much. Namaste.”