New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his 120th episode of the monthly radio program "Mann Ki Baat," addressed the nation on March 30, 2025, emphasizing the significance of unity in diversity as India embarks on a vibrant month filled with festivals. The Prime Minister extended his warm greetings to citizens celebrating various traditional New Year festivals across the country, such as Ugadi, Gudi Padwa, and Poila Baisakh, underscoring the importance of these occasions in fostering a sense of togetherness among the diverse cultures of India.
"These festivals happen in different parts of the country, but they show how unity is woven into the diversity of India. We must keep strengthening this feeling of unity," PM Modi stated, encouraging people to embrace the spirit of the celebrations.
The festivities are not limited to just one region; Ugadi is celebrated in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, while Gudi Padwa is observed in Maharashtra. Additionally, the Prime Minister noted that Baisakhi Bihu will be celebrated in Assam, Poila Baisakh in Bengal, and Navrekha in Jammu and Kashmir. He also mentioned the upcoming Eid celebrations, which will take place from April 13-15, 2025, highlighting the excitement surrounding these events.
During the program, PM Modi also reflected on his interactions with students during "Pariksha Pe Charcha" and encouraged them to utilize their summer vacations productively. He shared his own childhood memories of summer holidays spent engaging in both fun and constructive activities. "I remember my childhood days, when my friends and I used to indulge in some mischief or the other, but at the same time, we used to do something constructive and also learn," he reminisced.
To inspire students, the Prime Minister urged them to explore new hobbies and develop their skills during the long summer days. He mentioned various programs organized by institutions across the country, such as science camps, technology workshops, and drama classes, encouraging students to enroll and share their experiences using the hashtag #MyHolidays.
In a broader context, PM Modi addressed the pressing issue of textile waste during his address. He highlighted the increasing global concern surrounding the disposal of old clothes and the trend of fast fashion. "Have you ever thought about what happens to the old clothes that you stop wearing? This becomes textile waste," he remarked. The Prime Minister praised the efforts of Indian start-ups working on textile recovery facilities and the empowerment of ragpickers, noting the innovative solutions being developed to tackle this environmental challenge.
"Many young friends are involved in the efforts towards sustainable fashion. They recycle old clothes and footwear and distribute them to the needy. Many items like decorative pieces, handbags, stationery, and toys are being made from textile waste," he added. PM Modi commended cities like Panipat, Bengaluru, and Tirupur for their initiatives in textile recycling and waste management, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices.
In addition to these topics, PM Modi also shared inspiring stories of women entrepreneurs from different regions. He spoke about four sisters from Raja Khoh village in Chhindwara district, Madhya Pradesh, who have started making cookies from Mahua flowers. Their success has led to increased demand for these cookies, with a major company providing them training for factory work. This initiative has inspired other women in the village to join the enterprise.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister highlighted the culinary innovations of two sisters from Adilabad district, Telangana, who have created various dishes using Mahua flowers, showcasing the richness of local culture and tradition.
Another captivating story shared by PM Modi involved the Krishna Kamal flower from Ekta Nagar in Gujarat, which has become a popular attraction among tourists visiting the Statue of Unity. He encouraged citizens to observe and share their own unique stories about flowers and nature, inviting them to write to him with their experiences.
In his address, PM Modi also reiterated the significance of water conservation, especially during the summer months. He shared an example from Gadag district in Karnataka, where local efforts have successfully revived dried-up ponds, demonstrating the power of community action in addressing water scarcity. The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of the "Catch the Rain" campaign, which aims to conserve rainwater through various initiatives.
"Through the construction of new tanks, ponds, and water recharge structures, over 11 billion cubic meters of water has been conserved in the last seven to eight years. We must all do our part to protect our environment and ensure a sustainable future," he urged.
As the program concluded, PM Modi encouraged citizens to make yoga a part of their daily lives, highlighting the upcoming International Yoga Day on June 21, which has become a grand celebration worldwide. This year's theme, "Yoga for One Earth, One Health," reinforces the importance of holistic well-being.
In summary, PM Modi's 120th "Mann Ki Baat" episode not only celebrated the richness of India's cultural diversity through its festivals but also addressed critical social issues, encouraging citizens to engage in sustainable practices, support local entrepreneurship, and prioritize environmental conservation. His messages resonate with the spirit of unity and collective responsibility, inspiring a brighter future for all.
