New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday addressed the nation through the 79th edition of his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat'.
The radio address comes amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the Indian contingent participating in the Tokyo Olympics.
"To support our Olympics team on social media, the 'Victory Punch Campaign' has already begun. You also share your victory punch along with your team and cheer for India," PM Narendra Modi said at the beginning of his address.
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Bringing up the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, the Prime Minister said: "Tomorrow is Kargil Vijay Diwas. Kargil war is such a symbol of valour and discipline of our armed forces which the entire world has witnessed. I would like you to read the thrilling story of Kargil. Let us all salute the brave hearts of Kargil".
He noted that on the coming August 15, India will enter its 75th year of Independence and highlighted that Amrit Mahotsav is being celebrated throughout the country to mark the occasion.
The Prime Minister urged citizens to contribute towards a 'Bharat Jodo Andolan' by supporting the indigenous Khadi products. He also remembered Mahatma Gandhi who famously popularised the Indian fabric throughout the world.
PM Modi shared the finding of a recent study by MyGov that revealed about 75% of those who send their message and suggestions to 'Mann Ki Baat' are below 35 years. "It means Mann Ki Baat is being guided by the views of the youth of India. Mann Ki Baat is a medium where there is positivity and sensitivity," he said.
Inspirational Stories
The Prime Minister in his radio programme talks about inspirational citizens and their initiatives.
He talked about an aeronautical engineer who went to Himachal to learn apple cultivation: "Nowadays, apple cultivation is gaining traction in Ukhrul, Manipur. Farmers here are now cultivating apples in orchards. These people also went to Himachal to take proper training. One of them is TS Ringphami Young. He is an aeronautical engineer by profession".
"After COVID-19, the cultivation of 'Ber' is increasing. My one such young friend is 32 years old Bikramjeet Chakma from Unakoti, Tripura. He has earned a sizable profit after starting 'ber' cultivation and motivating people for its cultivation," he added.
PM Modi also highlighted an innovative step by a Chandigarh resident who sells free 'Chhole Bhature' to those getting vaccinated against COVID-19
In Chandigarh's Sector 29, Sanjay Rana Ji runs a food stall and sells 'Chhole Bhature' on cycle. To eat his delicious 'Chhole Bhature' for free, you will have to show that you have taken the (COVID-19) vaccine on the same day: PM Narendra Modi at 'Mann Ki Baat'.
Talking about Isaac Munda, a Youtuber based in a village in the Sambalpur district of Odisha, PM Modi said: "Isaac once worked as a daily wage labourer but now he has become an internet sensation. He is earning well through his Youtube channel. In his video, he highlights local delicacies, traditional recipes, his village, lifestyle, family & food habits".
"His journey as a YouTuber started in March 2020 when he posted a video about the traditional dish of Odisha, Pakhala. His initiative is unique in many ways especially because it provides an opportunity to the urban people to see a lifestyle about which they know very little. Isaac Munda is celebrating culture as well as cuisine and is also motivating us," PM Narendra Modi added.
Coronavirus Precautions
PM Narendra Modi time and again stresses following COVID precautions. As the festival season approaches, he urged citizens to follow the required norms.
"During festivals and gaiety, do remember that coronavirus is not yet gone from amidst us. You don't have to forget corona-related protocols," he said.
(With agency inputs)