In first 'Mann Ki Baat' address of 2019, PM Modi launches attack on caste-based politics

Here are the major takeaways from PM Modi's first Mann Ki Baat episode of this year:

File Image: PTI

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi  begun addressing the nation today in the 52nd episode of his Mann Ki Baat radio programme, which was also his maiden episode in the new year 2019. In his first radio podcast of the year , PM Modi attacked caste based politics in India, among other subjects that he touched. Mann Ki Baat was broadcasted on the entire network of All India Radio (AIR) and Doordarshan at 11 am. The programme was streamed on the YouTube channels of the Prime Minister's Office, Information and Broadcasting Ministry, AIR and DD News. In addition, it was simultaneously broadcast on AIR's website www.allindiaradio.gov.in . AIR will broadcast the programme in regional languages immediately after the Hindi broadcast. The regional language versions will also be repeated at 8 PM. Here are the major takeaways from PM's talk show:

• PM urged first time voters to register and cast their ballots in the coming Lok Sabha polls. Delivering his first "Mann Ki Baat" address of 2019, Modi said: "This year, the Lok Sabha elections will be held in our country and this will be the first time that youth born after 2000 will vote. "An opportunity has come for them to take the responsibility of the nation on their shoulders. They are now going to become a partner in the decision-making process of the country. I urge the youth to register themselves as voters."
• While remembering Saint Ravidas he attacked caste based politics and said that society must not be divided on the lines of caste.
• Modi also paid tribute to the late Sidaganga Mutt Seer Shivakumar Swami, saying that he had dedicated his entire life to social service, working for the social, educational welfare of thousands of people.  "It was a priority for Swami that people get food, shelter, education and spiritual knowledge."
• He described Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose as a "heroic soldier" and "skilled organiser" and said that his government has fulfilled the long demand of making the files related to the freedom fighter public.
• He said: "Today, our space programme is powered by several young scientists. We must take pride in the fact that the satellites developed by our students are reaching the space today. On 24 January Kalam SAT, created by our students, was launched".

The prime minister is visiting Madurai, Tamil Nadu, today to lay the foundation for All India Institute of Medical Sciences facility in the district.