Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s latest episode of Mann Ki Baat, aired on Sunday, urged citizens to participate in significant national celebrations and emphasised the importance of self-reliance, innovation, and traditional craftsmanship during the festive season.
Addressing the 115th episode, Modi announced that the government will commemorate the 150th birth anniversaries of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and freedom fighter Birsa Munda, inviting all citizens to actively engage in these celebrations.
Reflecting on the impact of Patel and Munda, PM Modi described the two leaders as visionaries who shared a goal for a unified and resilient India. He highlighted that the year-long celebrations will begin on October 31, marking the birth anniversary of Sardar Patel, and will continue with Birsa Munda’s on November 15.
Modi recalled his visit to Ulihatu village in Jharkhand, Munda’s birthplace, which he described as one of the most memorable moments of his life. He expressed admiration for Munda’s life, deeply rooted in his commitment to freedom and justice, and noted how his legacy remains an inspiration for unity.
This latest episode of Mann Ki Baat also covered Modi’s ongoing push for the Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) campaign, which he urged citizens to strengthen during Diwali.
Modi spoke about the strides India has made in technology and innovation, contrasting this with a time, just a decade ago, when such achievements were not widely acknowledged.
Today, he stated, India’s accomplishments are a source of global admiration, with the nation advancing in various fields, including science, technology, and space.
One prominent example highlighted by Modi was the Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) Observatory in Hanle, Ladakh. Located at 4,300 metres above sea level, this observatory is Asia’s largest imaging Cherenkov telescope and one of the world’s highest observatories.
Built with indigenous technology by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) and Electronics Corporation of India Limited (ECIL), MACE underscores India’s technological prowess.
Modi praised the dedication of Indian scientists and local industry partners in completing such a challenging project at a high-altitude site, where conditions are extremely harsh. The observatory’s success, he explained, is a testament to India’s self-reliance.
The Prime Minister also used the platform to promote the "Vocal for Local" initiative, urging citizens to support local artisans and small businesses during Diwali. In a call for strengthening India’s economy, he encouraged Indians to choose locally-made products, noting that this practice not only fosters self-reliance but also contributes to India’s role as a global manufacturing hub.
Modi underscored that this vision of "Make in India" now aligns with "Make for the World," as India’s domestic industries grow stronger and more competitive.
Emphasising the importance of traditional craftsmanship, Modi shared a heartwarming story about potters in Reasi, Jammu and Kashmir, who are producing eco-friendly earthen lamps, or diyas, in large quantities for Diwali.
These artisans have received substantial orders, employing skills passed down through generations to create these symbols of celebration. Ram Saroop, one of the potters, shared that he and his team have been preparing thousands of diyas, which hold cultural significance and illuminate homes across India during Diwali.
The episode also included Modi’s vision for India as a global powerhouse in animation and gaming. Recognizing India’s increasing influence in these creative fields, he discussed the widespread popularity of animated characters like Chhota Bheem and Motu-Patlu, which resonate with audiences worldwide.
He highlighted that India’s animation and gaming industries are rapidly growing, with talented Indian animators and developers playing significant roles in international projects, including popular franchises like Spider-Man and Transformers. Modi praised Harinarayan Rajiv, an Indian animator whose work has gained appreciation abroad, illustrating India’s creative influence on a global scale.
Modi pointed out that India’s animation studios have garnered partnerships with internationally renowned companies such as Disney and Warner Brothers, which he views as a significant step for India’s animation industry.
He noted that Indian animation reflects cultural values and traditions that resonate with audiences globally, establishing a unique identity in the industry. With the upcoming World Animation Day on October 28, Modi encouraged young Indians to continue creating original content that embodies India’s cultural spirit. His hope, he shared, is to see India emerge as a global leader in animation, with “Made in India” content leaving a positive impression worldwide.
In closing, Modi addressed the potential of the animation industry to inspire growth across various sectors, including virtual reality and tourism. He noted how virtual reality experiences in tourism have become popular, adding a new dimension to how people experience Indian heritage.
Modi expressed confidence that the animation and gaming industries will continue to flourish, inspiring India’s youth and strengthening the country’s influence in global entertainment and innovation.
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