New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday addressed the 72nd edition of his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat' which is also the last one for the year 2020. ALSO READ | Agitating Farmers Agree For Talks On Dec 29, 'Will Hold Tractor March On Dec 30 If Discussion Fails'| Top Developments


PM Modi began his address by talking about the impact of Coronavirus pandemic before the arrival of new year 2021.

"There were several challenges. Due to Coronavirus, the supply chains got disrupted worldwide but we have learnt new lessons from these difficult experiences. The nation also developed new capabilities. We can call this capability 'Aatmanirbharata' or self-reliance,": PM Modi said.

Vocal For Local

The Prime minister narrated the story shared by Delhi resident Abhinav Banerjee where people were told that certain toys were of great quality because they were made in India.

"Customers are demanding 'Made In India' toys. This is a big change in the thought process. This is a living example of a major transformation in people's attitude and that too within a period of one year," he said.

"I call upon our manufacturers and industry leaders that when people have taken determined step forward and when the mantra of 'Vocal for Local' is resonating in every house, it is time to ensure that our products are world-class. The Global best must be manufactured in India. For this, our entrepreneurs and startups must come forward," he added.

PM Modi also urged people to buy Kashmiri Saffron whenever they wish to buy the versatile product. "In May this year, the Kashmiri saffron was given the Geographical Indication Tag or GI tag. Through this, we want to make Kashmiri saffron a globally popular brand," he stated.

ALSO READ | Why You Need To Avoid Alcohol In The Coming Days, IMD Reveals With Winter Forecast For North India


Honouring Sacrifice Of Sikh Gurus

On the occasion of Shaheedi Diwas of Chhote Sahibzaade, Prime Minister also talked about the sacrifice made by Sikh Gurus and their kin as he narrated about the martyrdom of Guru Gobind Singh Ji's sons Sahibzada Ajit Singh, Sahibzada Jujhar Singh, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh.

"People reverently remember the supreme sacrifice of the family of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji. This martyrdom gave a new lesson to the entire humanity and the entire country. This martyrdom did a great work of protecting our civilization. We are indebted to this martyrdom,": PM Modi said.

He also talked about his recent visit to Gurdwara Rakab Ganj Sahib saying "On this day, Guru Govind Singh Ji's mother Mata Gujri Ji embraced martyrdom. About a week back was the day of martyrdom of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji. I had the privilege to pay my obeisance to Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji at Gurudwara Rakab Ganj in Delhi".

Resolution For The Nation

At the beginning of a new year, people take on resolutions to follow. Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged people to take a resolution for the country and that is to vow to not litter.

"We should take a vow that we will not litter, this is the first resolve of Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan. I want to remind you of one more thing which couldn't be discussed as much because of Coronavirus crisis. We have to definitely rid the nation of single-use plastic,": PM Modi urged.

Besides these subjects, Prime Minister Modi shared inspirational stories from several parts of the country while sending wishes to one and all for the new year 2021.