Text of Prime Minister's address in the 121st episode of Mann Ki Baat (27.04.2025)

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Amrit Mahotsav of freedom

Text of Prime Minister's address in the 121st episode of Mann Ki Baat (27.04.2025)

Posted On: 27 APR 2025 11:41AM by PIB Delhi

My dear countrymen, Namaskar. Today, when I am talking to you in 'Mann Ki Baat', there is a deep pain in my heart. The terrorist incident that took place in Pahalgam on 22nd April has hurt every citizen of the country. Every Indian has deep sympathy for the affected families. No matter which state he belongs to, no matter which language he speaks, but he is feeling the pain of those who have lost their loved ones in this attack. I realize that every Indian's blood is boiling after seeing the pictures of the terrorist attack. This attack in Pahalgam shows the desperation of the patrons of terrorism, shows their cowardice. At a time when peace was returning to Kashmir, there was a vibrancy in schools and colleges, there was an unprecedented pace in construction work, democracy was getting stronger, there was a record increase in the number of tourists, people's income was increasing, new opportunities were being created for the youth. The enemies of the country, the enemies of Jammu and Kashmir, did not like this. The terrorists and their masters want Kashmir to be destroyed again and hence they hatched such a big conspiracy. In this war against terrorism, the unity of the country, the solidarity of 140 crore Indians, is our biggest strength. This unity is the basis of our decisive fight against terrorism. We have to strengthen our resolve to face this challenge that has come before the country. We have to demonstrate our strong will as a nation. Today the world is watching, after this terrorist attack, the whole country is speaking in one voice.

Friends, the anger that is felt by us Indians is felt all over the world. After this terrorist attack, condolences are pouring in from all over the world. Global leaders have called me, written letters and sent messages. Everyone has strongly condemned this heinous terrorist attack. They have expressed condolences to the families of the deceased. The whole world stands with 140 crore Indians in our fight against terrorism. I once again assure the victim families that they will get justice, justice will be served. The culprits and conspirators of this attack will be given the harshest response.

Friends, two days ago we lost the great scientist of the country, Dr. K. Kasturirangan. Whenever we met Kasturirangan, we used to discuss topics like talent of Indian youth, modern education, space-science. His contribution in giving new heights to science, education and India's space program will always be remembered. ISRO got a new identity under his leadership. The space programs that progressed under his guidance gave global recognition to India's efforts. Many of the satellites that India uses today were launched under the supervision of Dr. Kasturirangan. There was one more special thing about his personality, from which the young generation can learn from him. He always gave importance to innovation. The vision of learning, knowing and doing something new is very inspiring. Dr. K. Kasturirangan also played a very important role in preparing the new National Education Policy of the country. Dr. Kasturirangan came up with the idea of forward looking education according to the modern needs of the 21st century. His selfless service to the country and contribution to nation building will always be remembered. I pay my humble tribute to Dr. K. Kasturirangan ji.

My dear countrymen, this month of April marks 50 years of the launch of the Aryabhatta Satellite. Today, when we look back and remember this journey of 50 years, we realise how far we have come. This flight of India's dreams in space had once started with mere courage. Some young scientists who had the passion to do something for the nation - they neither had the modern resources like today, nor did they have access to the world's technology - if they had anything, it was talent, dedication, hard work and the passion to do something for the country. You must have seen the pictures of our scientists carrying critical equipment on bullock carts and bicycles. It is the result of that dedication and the spirit of national service that so much has changed today. Today India has become a Global Space Power. We have created a record by launching 104 satellites simultaneously. We have become the first country to reach the South Pole of the Moon. India has launched the Mars Orbiter Mission and we have reached very close to the Sun through the Aditya - L1 Mission. Today India is leading the most cost effective but successful space program in the whole world. Many countries of the world take help from ISRO for their satellites and space missions.

Friends, when we see a satellite launched by ISRO, we are filled with pride. I had a similar feeling when I witnessed the launch of PSLV-C-23 in 2014. I was also present at the ISRO Center in Bengaluru during the landing of Chandrayaan-2 in 2019. At that time, Chandrayaan did not get the expected success, it was a very difficult time for the scientists. But I was also seeing with my own eyes the patience of the scientists and their passion to achieve something. And a few years later, the whole world also saw how the same scientists made Chandrayaan-3 a success.

Friends, now India has opened its Space Sector for the private sector as well. Today many youth are flying new flags in Space Startup. 10 years ago there was only one company in this sector, but today more than 325 Space Startups are working in the country. The coming time is bringing many new possibilities in Space. India is going to touch new heights. The country is busy preparing for many important missions like Gaganyaan, SpaDeX and Chandrayaan-4. We are also working on Venus Orbiter Mission and Mars Lander Mission. Our Space Scientists are going to fill the countrymen with new pride with their innovations.

Friends, you must have seen the horrific pictures of the earthquake that struck Myanmar last month. The earthquake caused huge devastation there. Every breath, every moment was precious for the people trapped in the rubble. That is why India immediately started Operation Brahma for our brothers and sisters in Myanmar. From Air Force aircraft to Navy ships, everything was dispatched to help Myanmar. The Indian team set up a field hospital there. A team of engineers helped assess the damage to important buildings and infrastructure. The Indian team supplied blankets, tents, sleeping bags, medicines, food items and many other things there. During this time, the Indian team also received a lot of praise from the people there.

Friends, in this crisis, many heart-warming examples of courage, patience and understanding came to light. The Indian team rescued an elderly woman of more than 70 years of age who was buried under the debris for 18 hours. Those who are watching 'Mann Ki Baat' on TV right now must be able to see the face of that elderly woman. The team from India provided every treatment facility, from stabilizing her oxygen level to treatment of fracture. When this elderly woman was discharged from the hospital, she expressed her gratitude to our team. She said that she has got a new life because of the Indian rescue team . Many people told our team that because of them they were able to find their friends and relatives.

Friends, after the earthquake, there were apprehensions that many people were trapped in a monastery in Mandalay, Myanmar. Our colleagues carried out relief and rescue operations here too, and due to this, they received a lot of blessings from the Buddhist monks. We are very proud of all those who took part in Operation Brahma. We have our tradition, our sanskar, the feeling of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' - the whole world is one family. India's readiness as a world-friend in times of crisis and India's commitment to humanity is becoming our identity.

Friends, I have come to know about an innovative effort of the Indian diaspora in Ethiopia, Africa. Indians living in Ethiopia have taken the initiative to send children who are suffering from heart disease since birth to India for treatment. Many such children are also being helped financially by Indian families. If the family of a child is unable to come to India due to lack of money, then our Indian brothers and sisters are making arrangements for this too. The effort is to ensure that every needy child of Ethiopia suffering from a serious disease gets better treatment. This noble work of the Indian diaspora is getting a lot of appreciation in Ethiopia. You know that medical facilities in India are constantly improving. Citizens of other countries are also taking advantage of this.

Friends, just a few days ago, India has also sent a large quantity of vaccine for the people of Afghanistan. This vaccine will be useful in preventing dangerous diseases like Rabies, Tetanus, Hepatitis B and Influenza. This week, on Nepal's request, India has sent a large consignment of medicines and vaccine there. This will ensure better treatment for patients of thalassemia and sickle cell disease. Whenever it comes to serving humanity, India has always been at the forefront and will always be at the forefront in every such need in the future too. 

Friends, we were just talking about Disaster Management. And your alertness is very important in dealing with any natural disaster. Now you can get help in this alertness from a special app on your mobile. This app can save you from getting trapped in any natural disaster and its name is also 'Sachet'. 'Sachet APP' has been prepared by India's National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). Be it disasters like flood, cyclone, land-slide, tsunami, forest fire, avalanche, storm, hurricane or lightning, 'Sachet APP' tries to keep you informed and protected in every way. Through this app, you can get updates related to the Meteorological Department. The special thing is that 'Sachet APP' also provides a lot of information in regional languages. You should also take advantage of this app and definitely share your experiences with us.

My dear countrymen, today we see India's talent being appreciated all over the world. India's youth has changed the world's view towards India, and the interest of the youth of any country determines what the country's future will be like. Today India's youth is moving towards Science, Technology and Innovation. Even in areas that were earlier known for backwardness and other reasons, the youth have set such examples that give us new confidence. The Science Centre of Dantewada in Chhattisgarh is attracting everyone's attention these days. Until some time ago, Dantewada was known only for violence and unrest, but now a Science Centre there has become a new ray of hope for children and their parents. Children are enjoying going to this Science Centre. They are now learning to make new machines and new products using technology. They have got a chance to learn about 3D printers and robotic cars as well as other innovative things. Some time ago, I also inaugurated the Science Galleries in Gujarat Science City . These galleries give a glimpse of the potential of modern science and how much science can do for us. I have been informed that the children there are very excited about these galleries. This growing attraction towards science and innovation will definitely take India to new heights.

My dear countrymen, the biggest strength of our country is our 140 crore citizens, their strength, their will power. And when crores of people join a campaign together, its impact is huge. An example of this is 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' - this campaign is in the name of the mother who gave birth to us and it is also for the mother earth who keeps us in her lap. Friends, on 5 June, on 'World Environment Day', this campaign is completing one year. In this one year, under this campaign, more than 140 crore trees have been planted in the name of mother across the country. Seeing this initiative of India, people outside the country have also planted trees in the name of their mothers. You too become a part of this campaign, so that on completion of one year, you can be proud of your participation.

Friends, we all know that trees provide coolness and the shade of trees provides relief from heat. But recently I saw another news related to this which caught my attention. More than 70 lakh trees have been planted in Ahmedabad city of Gujarat in the last few years. These trees have increased the green area in Ahmedabad to a great extent. Along with this, the number of water bodies has also increased here due to the construction of River Front on Sabarmati river and reconstruction of some lakes like Kankaria lake . Now news reports say that in the last few years Ahmedabad has become one of the major cities fighting against global warming. The people there are also feeling this change, the coolness in the environment. The trees planted in Ahmedabad are becoming the reason for bringing new prosperity there. I again request all of you to definitely plant trees 'Ek Ped - Maa Ke Naam' to keep the earth healthy, to deal with the challenges of climate change, and to secure the future of your children.

Friends, there is an old saying 'where there is a will there is a way'. When we decide to do something new, we definitely reach our destination. You must have eaten a lot of apples grown in the mountains. But, if I ask you whether you have tasted the apples of Karnataka? Then you will be surprised. Usually we think that apples are grown only in the mountains. But Shri Shail Teli ji, who lives in Bagalkot, Karnataka, has grown apples in the plains. In his Kulali village, apple trees have started bearing fruits even in temperatures above 35 degrees. Actually, Shri Shail Teli was fond of farming, so he tried apple farming as well and he got success in it. Today, a lot of apples grow on the apple trees planted by him, by selling which he is earning a good income.

Friends, now that we are talking about apples, you must have heard the name of Kinnauri apple. Saffron production has started in Kinnaur, famous for apples. Generally, saffron cultivation was less in Himachal, but now saffron cultivation has started in the beautiful Sangla valley of Kinnaur as well. One such example is Wayanad in Kerala. Success has been achieved in growing saffron here as well. And in Wayanad, this saffron is not being grown in any field or soil but with Aeroponics Technique. Something similar has happened with the production of litchi. We had been hearing that litchi grows in Bihar, West Bengal or Jharkhand. But now litchi is being produced in South India and Rajasthan as well. Thiru Veera Arasu of Tamil Nadu used to cultivate coffee. He planted litchi trees in Kodaikanal and after 7 years of his hard work, fruits have started coming on those trees. The success in growing litchi has also inspired other farmers in the vicinity. Jitendra Singh Ranawat in Rajasthan has been successful in growing litchi. All these examples are very inspiring. If we decide to do something new, and persevere despite difficulties, then even the impossible can be made possible.

My dear countrymen, today is the last Sunday of April. The month of May is starting in a few days. I will take you about 108 years back from today. The year 1917, these two months of April and May - a unique battle for freedom was being fought in the country. The atrocities of the British were at their peak. The exploitation of the poor, the deprived and the farmers had crossed the inhuman level. On the fertile land of Bihar, these British were forcing the farmers to cultivate indigo. The farmers' fields were becoming barren due to indigo cultivation, but the British government did not care about it. In such a situation, in 1917, Gandhiji reached Champaran in Bihar. The farmers told Gandhiji - our land is dying, we are not getting food grains to eat. The pain of millions of farmers gave a resolution to Gandhiji. From there, the historic Satyagraha of Champaran started. 'Champaran Satyagraha' was the first big experiment by Bapu in India. The entire British government was shaken by Bapu's Satyagraha. The British had to suspend the law that forced farmers to cultivate indigo. This was a victory that infused new confidence in the freedom struggle. You all must be knowing that another son of Bihar also contributed a lot to this Satyagraha, who became the first President of the country after independence. He was a great personality – Dr. Rajendra Prasad. He also wrote a book on 'Champaran Satyagraha' – 'Satyagraha in Champaran', every youth should read this book. Brothers and sisters, many more indelible chapters of the freedom struggle are associated with April itself. Gandhiji's 'Dandi Yatra' was completed on the 6th of April itself. This journey which started on 12th March and continued for 24 days shook the British. The Jallianwala Bagh massacre took place in April itself. The marks of this bloody history are still present on the soil of Punjab.

   Friends, in a few days, on 10th May, the anniversary of the first freedom struggle is also coming. The spark that arose in that first war of independence later became a torch for lakhs of fighters. Just now on 26th April, we have also celebrated the death anniversary of Babu Veer Kunwar Singh ji, the great hero of the 1857 revolution. The whole country gets inspiration from the great warrior of Bihar. We have to keep alive the immortal inspirations of lakhs of such freedom fighters. The energy we get from them gives new strength to our resolutions of Amritkaal.

Friends, in this long journey of 'Mann Ki Baat' you have developed an intimate relationship with this programme. The achievements of the countrymen that they want to share with others are conveyed to the people through 'Mann Ki Baat'. Next month we will again talk about the diversity of the country, its glorious traditions and new achievements. We will learn about such people who are bringing about a change in the society with their dedication and spirit of service. As always, keep sending us your thoughts and suggestions. Thank you, Namaskar.   

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