New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed this year's last 'Mann Ki Baat' today. PM Modi spoke about the Omicron variant spreading across the country and around the globe and assured people that scientists and researchers are analysing this strain to stop the spread as we enter into a new year in few days. He also cautioned the citizens and urged them to follow Covid protocols and wear masks at public places.
PM Modi said, "We must remember that a new variant of COVID19 Omicron has knocked on our doors. To defeat this global pandemic our effort as citizens is important."
PM Modi remembers Group Capt Varun Singh
PM Modi remembered Captain Varun Singh during his Mann Ki Baat address. Group Captain Varun Singh breathed his last at a military hospital in Bengaluru after surviving the helicopter crash that occurred on December 8 in Tamil Nadu’s Coonoor. The air crash had killed Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat, his wife, and 11 personnel of the armed forces.
PM Modi read a letter by Group Capt Varun Singh which touched his heart and could inspire people to work for the country with utter dedication. PM Modi said that when Varun was in the hospital, he saw something on social media that touched his heart. He was given Shaurya Chakra in August just this year.
After this honor, he had written a letter to the principal of his school. Reading the letter, PM Modi said, "He wanted that the lives of the students of the school that he studied in should also be a celebration. In his letter, Varun Singh ji did not boast of his valour; instead, he referred to his failures. He talked about how he converted his shortcomings into abilities."
The Prime Minister further said that the first thought that came to his mind was that even after reaching the pinnacle of success, he did not forget to nurture his roots. Second - that when he had time to celebrate, he showed concern for the generations to come.
PM Modi urges people to focus more on reading
PM Modi said that at a time when our screen time is increasing, books not only impart knowledge; they also shape personality and life. The hobby of reading books leads to wonderful satisfaction. Speaking about an extraordinary talent whose work inspires others PM Modi said, " One such person is Dr. Kurella Vithalacharya ji from Telangana. He is 84yrs old. Vithalacharya ji exemplifies the fact that when it comes to fulfilling your dreams, age does not matter at all."
The Prime Minister further said that it is our duty to preserve and popularise our culture. It is equally gladdening to see global efforts that celebrate Indian culture. People from different countries are not only curious to know about our culture but are also helping to spread it. One such person is Serbian Scholar Dr. Momir Nikic.
Concluding his speech PM Modi said, "The next Mann Ki Baat will take place in the year 2022. Let us keep innovating, doing new things and always keep in mind the progress of our nation and the empowerment of our fellow Indians."