BuzzBytes News Desk
New Delhi, May 31: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday lauded India’s emerging sporting talent, grassroots environmental initiatives, cultural heritage preservation efforts and acts of community service while addressing the nation in the 134th episode of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat.
The Prime Minister began his address by congratulating Indian athletes for their remarkable performances at the National Senior Athletics Federation Competition held in Ranchi, Jharkhand, where several national records were broken.
Highlighting the growing strength of Indian athletics, Modi interacted with sprinters Gurinder Veer Singh and Animesh Kujur, who created history by breaking the national record in the men’s 100-metre race multiple times within two days. He praised their determination, perseverance and sportsmanship, saying their achievements have inspired a new generation of athletes and demonstrated that Indian athletes can excel in sprint events at the global level.
The Prime Minister also urged citizens to take precautions during the ongoing heatwave conditions prevailing in several parts of the country. Stressing the importance of hydration and safety, he advised people to follow government-issued guidelines while venturing outdoors.
Celebrating India’s rich culinary traditions, Modi highlighted a variety of traditional summer beverages such as Aam Panna, Lassi, Buttermilk, Sattu Sherbet, Kokum Sherbet, Sol Kadhi, Panakam, Neer Mor and Bael Pana. He said these indigenous drinks not only provide relief from the heat but also reflect India’s cultural diversity and the spirit of “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.”
Speaking about the country’s love for mangoes, the Prime Minister described the diverse varieties grown across different states, including Alphonso, Kesar, Dussehri, Langra, Zardalu, Chausa, Banganapalli, Totapuri, Neelam, Malgova, Himsagar and Suvarnarekha. He praised mango farmers for their contribution to the agricultural economy and noted that Indian mangoes are increasingly reaching international markets.
Modi also highlighted inspiring examples of social service from across the country. He praised Kerala-based swimming instructor Saji Valasheril, who has taught swimming to more than 15,000 people, including specially-abled children. The initiative was launched following a tragic boat accident that claimed the lives of several students, motivating him to create awareness about swimming as a life-saving skill.
During the programme, the Prime Minister shared details about the recent return of ancient Chola-period copper plates from the Netherlands to India. He described the artefacts as invaluable pieces of India’s heritage that provide important insights into the maritime power, governance and cultural achievements of the Chola Empire. He also highlighted the discovery of rare copper plates in Chhattisgarh under the Gyan Bharatam Abhiyan, which offer valuable information about ancient Indian history and administration.
Emphasising the country’s long-standing fascination with astronomy, Modi encouraged young people to explore astronomy clubs and visit planetariums during school vacations. He highlighted the work of several organisations promoting astronomy education, including the Bangalore Astronomical Society, Astro Kerala, Big Bang Astronomy Club and Jyotirvidya Parisanstha.
The Prime Minister also applauded the successful rescue of a Gangetic dolphin in Uttar Pradesh using India’s first Ganga Dolphin Rescue Ambulance developed under the Namami Gange Mission. He said protecting dolphins is essential for preserving the biodiversity and ecological balance of the Ganga river system.
Highlighting environmental conservation efforts, Modi praised Akash Gupta and his team from Uttar Pradesh’s Basti district for cleaning the polluted Manorama River by removing plastic waste and water hyacinth. He also acknowledged the efforts of retired teacher Balkrishna Aiya from Goa, who helped address water scarcity issues in his region by facilitating the installation of water pipelines.
The Prime Minister shared a heartwarming interaction with educationist Girija Amma from Tamil Nadu, who inspired students from her network of schools to contribute one rupee daily towards supporting Indian soldiers. The initiative collected nearly ₹40 lakh, reflecting a strong spirit of patriotism and social responsibility among students.
Concluding the programme, Modi urged citizens to recognise and appreciate individuals working selflessly for society. He said such efforts strengthen the nation and demonstrate the collective power of citizens in driving positive change.
The Prime Minister called upon people to actively participate in community service, environmental protection, cultural preservation and nation-building initiatives, stressing that the country’s progress is powered by the dedication and commitment of ordinary citizens across India.
