My dear countrymen, Namaskar.
I am getting an opportunity to meet you once again for the September edition of ‘Mann Ki Baat’. I welcome all the people of the country. In ‘Mann Ki Baat’, we provide a platform for the positive efforts of our countrymen… discuss the nation's achievements. One such major, historic achievement of India is set to mark its 10th anniversary in just a day – this achievement is the ‘Surgical Strike’. Ten years ago, on September 28-29, 2016, the Indian Army carried out surgical strikes on terrorist hideouts in Pakistan. The world was astonished to see the manner in which our brave soldiers crossed the Line of Control (LoC) to take action against terrorism.
The surgical strike boldly demonstrated to the entire world a new example of India’s counter-terrorism policy. The ‘Surgical Strike’ was our decisive response to the long-standing pain India had endured due to terrorist attacks. Over the past decade - from the Balakot airstrike to ‘Operation Sindoor’ - India has repeatedly sent a clear message: if terrorists dare to cast an evil eye on India, they will be met with a befitting response.
Friends,
India has long suffered wounds inflicted by terrorist attacks. There was a time when serial blasts had become a common occurrence in the country. It was in this very month of September - specifically on September 13, 2008 - that many innocent lives were lost in the serial blasts in Delhi. Just a few weeks later, the massive 26/11 attack took place in Mumbai. Friends, in the past too, there used to be demands for action against Pakistan following every terror attack, but such calls were often not given due attention; time to pass by was simply awaited. Today, India pursues a zero-tolerance policy against terrorism, and we are witnessing the results of that.
Friends,
This year also marks 25 years since the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Among the innocent lives lost at the World Trade Center in the US, the highest number of victims—after Americans - was Indians. I recall that after becoming Prime Minister in 2014, when I visited the US, I had reached New York to pay my homage to those innocent citizens. Today, once again, I extend my condolences to the bereaved families on behalf of crores of Indian citizens.
My dear countrymen,
A grand picture of the nation is currently emerging. This picture includes you, your family and even your neighbours. I am referring to India's census. The first phase of this exercise is nearly complete across all states and union territories;
data of over 32 crore families has already been recorded. Work is currently underway also in the remote, snow-clad regions of Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Uttarakhand. Many inspiring experiences have emerged from these areas. In Uttarakhand, the census process began in the village of Mana in Chamoli; Mana is known as the country's first village. The process there started with 83-year-old Purnima Rawat ji. In Bagori village, Uttarkashi, Hardev Singh Rana ji—who runs a homestay—entered his details himself using digital means.
Friends,
The census is a national responsibility for all of us. On 15th August also, I had urged my countrymen to take time out for that. The facility to self-register your census details is very convenient. You can register information about yourself and your family from your mobile itself. Along with Hindi, this facility is available in 16 languages.
Friends,
To do this, you need to visit the census online portal. The portal is se.census.gov.in… log in using your mobile number, enter your location, fill in the details regarding your family and submit the information. The entire process takes about 15 to 20 minutes. And for that you do not need to upload any document. After submitting the information, you will receive a special ID. You can share this ID with the census enumerator when they visit your home. After the information you provided is verified, it will become part of the census record.
Friends,
So far, more than 2 crore 60 lakh people have already entered their details on the census portal via mobile - completing the self-enumeration. It will take a little of your time, but it is important for the nation, as accurate information about you and your family helps create a precise picture of the country's future.
My dear countrymen,
Today - the date 27th of September - has become even more special for a special reason. Today marks the 100th birth anniversary of a great personality who had dedicated his entire life to culture, society, and the nation. I am speaking of the revered late Ashok Singhal ji, the former International Working President of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad. He was born on this very day - September 27, 1926 - in Agra. Living amidst society, he led life like an ascetic. The very direction and energy he imparted to the Ram Janmabhoomi movement veritably resulted in us witnessing the magnificent temple in Ayodhya today. I’ve been greatly fortunate… I’ve not only observed his life closely but also have had the opportunity to join him in this mission. It was only natural for me to be reminded of Ashok ji repeatedly while participating in the *Pran Pratishtha* ceremony at the Ram Mandir.
Friends,
There are so many aspects about Ashok ji that do not receive much attention. Alongside the Ram Mandir movement, he also waged a major battle against social discrimination and inequality. He was born into a very affluent family; his father was a civil services official, and most of his siblings held high-ranking positions. He himself was a graduate of IIT BHU. Yet, despite all that, he dedicated his life to society and culture - this is the hallmark of great individuals. Today, on the occasion of his birth centenary, I bow to him on behalf of his millions of admirers… I offer my heartfelt tribute, on my part.
My dear countrymen,
We began this year with a grand celebration of national pride – This festival was the "Somnath Swabhiman Parv". A thousand years ago, in 1026, Mahmud of Ghazni had demolished the Somnath Temple for the first time. However, those who came to destroy Somnath and erase India's identity have no existence at all today, whereas the Somnath Temple stands in all its grandeur by the vast sea, bestowing the blessing of immortality upon India. That is why we celebrated the 'Somnath Swabhiman Parv' this year with immense pride.
Friends,
Why I am bringing this up again in 'Mann Ki Baat' today - there is a special reason for that. In 1026 AD when Somnath was destroyed by Ghazni; the same year, the famous Sun Temple in Modhera, Gujarat, was also attacked and destroyed. This means that a thousand years have passed since the destruction of the Modhera temple as well, whereas the temple then had been built just a year ago. King Bhimdev had got it built in 1025.
Friends,
Imagine that era; a massive invasion had taken place, a major center of faith like the Somnath Temple had been vandalised, and attacks were occurring at multiple locations - any society or administration could have had its morale shattered. Yet, King Bhimdev The First not only confronted the forces of Ghazni but also had the Modhera Sun Temple rebuilt within a short time. It is because of this very resilience that the Somnath Temple, too, was rebuilt every time despite facing repeated destruction.
Friends,
The attacks on the Modhera Sun Temple did not cease in later periods either. Alauddin Khilji later destroyed this temple, the magnificent architectural marvel once again. However, friends, we, the people of India, do not worship the Sun solely through architecture and temples; for us, Sun worship also signifies light, energy, science, and the inspiration for continuity. That is why Modhera is known today not just for its Sun Temple; this village in Gujarat has become the country's first ‘Surya Gram’ 'Solar Village.'
Modhera now runs entirely on solar energy, setting an example of sustainability for the nation. Several attractions and amenities for tourists have also been introduced in Modhera. The Modhera Dance Festival is held there in January, following Makar Sankranti, featuring magnificent performances of India's cultural and classical dances. I would urge all of you to visit Modhera at least once and witness this glorious Indian heritage.
Friends,
Our connection with the past remains very much alive today. This is driven by the dedication and hard work of individuals who are deepening this bond. A unique initiative of this kind is underway in Manapparai, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu. A. Selvaraju ji, associated with the Department of Tamil Studies at a college, is spearheading this effort. During a lecture, he learned about some ancient sculptures from a student. Following a discussion on the subject, he planned a field visit. During this visit, he discovered several sculptures and ancient temples at various locations. This is a fascinating way to connect with the past; this way, we can understand our heritage even better. Similar initiatives can be undertaken in other parts of the country as well… they offer us the opportunity to observe and comprehend our history more closely.
My dear countrymen,
In just a few days, it’s the 2nd of October - the birth anniversary of revered Bapu. Bapu has given us many guiding principles for life… cleanliness is one of them. We often see numerous efforts related to cleanliness around us. These efforts are very inspiring and uplifting. Such photos, videos, and reels frequently catch our attention on social media as well. I have witnessed many such initiatives recently. At a place in Madhya Pradesh, young people are working to clean up a river; the entire community is joining in their small effort. Similarly, in Andhra Pradesh, the youth are cleaning up old stepwells and wells, thereby helping to restore our ancient heritage. In Mumbai, some young people are taking the initiative to keep beaches clean; every week, hundreds of young friends gather at one beach or the other to serve through cleanliness drives... Swachhata Se Sewa. Here in Delhi, children and the youth are raising awareness about segregating waste and maintaining cleanliness in their surroundings. In West Bengal, young students are collaborating with locals to clean up market areas at picnic spots.
Friends,
Across all these efforts, one aspect is easily observed… somewhere it starts with a single individual, other people join in, and the movement grows - this is precisely what 'Jan-Bhagidari' is all about. Indeed, cleanliness is the most beautiful tribute we can pay to Bapu.
My dear countrymen,
When we protect the environment, we do not merely save plants or animals; we strengthen that entire ecosystem. Some initiatives taking place in various parts of the country are beautifully highlighting this sentiment.
Friends,
There is the Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam. There was a time when elephants used to inhabit this area, but as human interference on forest land increased, the elephants moved away. Three years ago, this land was cleared of encroachment, and the results have been remarkable - the elephants have returned here again. Herds of elephants are once again being spotted in areas where they had not been active for years. Friends, another wonderful initiative has taken place in Assam itself - this effort is to save a tiny creature, the Pygmy Hog. Once, its very existence was under threat; at that time, a conservation program was launched with just six Pygmy Hogs, and they were reintroduced into the wild. Grasslands were also curated for their living. Today, thanks to this program, the Pygmy Hog population has risen to over 190.
Friends,
Our relationship with nature is not limited merely to its preservation; often, when we care for nature, it becomes a source of sustenance for our own lives. In the Sundarbans of West Bengal, some women are setting an inspiring example of this very bond. These women from Jharkhali are creating mangrove forests.
Most of them are women who lost their husbands to tiger attacks. After losing their husbands, they found a means of livelihood within the Sundarbans itself. The mangroves they have planted are now serving as a natural protective shield for their villages, while also providing them with an income. Friends, let us conserve the environment, respect the balance of nature, and safeguard its diversity. Every such effort of ours is a responsibility we owe to future generations.
My dear countrymen,
Millions of young people across the country have recently taken a significant resolve against substance abuse and drugs. They have vowed to stay away from drugs themselves and have also taken up the responsibility of spreading this message to others - all under the 'Nasha Mukt Yuva Abhiyan'. This campaign will run for 100 weeks… it includes volunteers from 'MY Bharat'. Our youth associated with the NSS are part of this; schools, colleges, and universities have joined in; and numerous social and spiritual organizations are also involved. In just the last few days, thousands of pledge ceremonies and awareness programs have taken place across the country. Friends, there is one aspect of this campaign that I particularly appreciate: the ‘Nasha-Mukti Ka Sandesh.’ Our youth are propagating this message in their own language and in their own way.
I had urged young people in ‘Mann Ki Baat’ as well, to join this campaign using their creativity, and I am delighted that thousands of youth have stepped forward in response to this call. Various competitions - such as anthem - slogan writing, and street plays - have been organized on the ‘MY Bharat’ platform. Similarly, young people are sharing creative content on social media using the hashtag ‘#NashaMuktYuva’; in essence, the message, the medium, and the driving energy behind it all come from the youth themselves. In the coming days, activities such as health check-ups and meditation camps will also be conducted as part of this campaign.
Friends,
Several of our festivals are approaching soon. This time amidst the festive celebrations, let us also look around us. If any young person is drifting towards a harmful habit, talk to them. If someone is trying to break free from addiction, support them. Let us all work together to advance the resolve of a drug-free youth and a Viksit Bharat.
My dear countrymen,
I announced a talent hunt campaign for sports from the Red Fort this time. To ensure India continues to perform excellently, it is essential to reach out to villages and towns to discover sporting talent. At the same time, there are many individuals who have dedicated themselves to this very cause. Their sole passion is to discover talent and shape it.
In our Punjab, Rajinder Singh ji is doing exactly this work. Rajinder Singh ji is one such individual who also carries the title ‘Senior’ as part of his name. He was part of the team that won the gold medal in hockey at the 1980 Olympics. He shone at the 1982 World Cup. In 2001, India won the Men’s Junior World Cup title for the first time, whereas in 2003, the country clinched the Senior Asia Cup title. He played the role of the coach in both these tournaments. Now, he is pursuing his passion through the Round Glass Hockey Academy. Thanks to his efforts, new hockey astro-turfs are being laid in villages. Rajinder ji has a very clear focus: identifying children in villages that lack access to excellent coaching facilities. Through such initiatives, many players are securing spots at India's junior and senior levels. No matter how much Rajinder Singh ji’s dedication is lauded, it’s not enough.
My dear countrymen,
*Amla*, the Indian gooseberry is very familiar to all of us. Pickles and preserves i.e. *murabba* made from it are used in most households. Many people like *Amla* juice and *Chyawanprash* becomes an essential part of our daily routine during winter. Our elders have long spoken about the qualities of *Amla* across generations. Friends, this very *Amla* is now becoming a source of new possibilities in Pratapgarh, Uttar Pradesh. The bond between Pratapgarh and *Amla* is very old; farmers here have been growing it for generations.
*Amla* has given Pratapgarh a strong identity, and now, this long-standing identity is bringing new opportunities for local farmers and women. The 'One District One Product' (ODOP) has boosted local entrepreneurs involved in the *Amla* trade there. Today, around 100 units related to *Amla* processing are operational in Pratapgarh, with women connected with self-help groups playing a significant role. One such group is from Devgarh Kamasi village; women associated with the Savitri Phule Self-Help Group are producing *Amla* candy, preserves, and juice. Access to new markets through the ODOP scheme has also led to an increase in their income.
Similarly, there is a 'Vindhyavasini Self-Help Group' in a village. The women of this group are producing many such items like Amla pickle and digestive powder. These women received machinery for processing and access to loan facilities. They also got the opportunity to participate in local trade fairs, and in no time, their income saw a significant rise.
Friends,
Every region of our country certainly possesses some such unique specialty - be it a specific fruit, a traditional art form, or a unique skill. The 'One District, One Product' campaign aims to promote these very specialties.
Our endeavour should be to ensure that the identity of our villages and small towns is not confined merely to local markets; these products should reach other parts of the country and even global markets. This also strengthens the 'Vocal for Local' campaign… it inspires the nation to become self-reliant. Even during the upcoming festive season, we must never forget the 'Vocal for Local' mantra.
My dear countrymen,
The month of September is dedicated to the fight against malnutrition. During the Nutrition Month, individuals and organizations from various sectors come together for this noble cause.
Several commendable initiatives have been launched this year to combat malnutrition. Chhattisgarh, for instance, has started the 'Har Ghar Munga - Ghar Ghar Munga' campaign… through this, people are being encouraged to include the nutritious *Munga* i.e. Moringa in their diet. Gujarat has also launched a 'Vangi Spardha' - a competition featuring dishes made from millets. This initiative promotes affordable and nutritious local cuisine. So far, more than two lakh people have participated in this contest. Maharashtra is also making commendable efforts in this direction; teachers, Anganwadi workers, and parents are joining awareness campaigns there. In Mizoram as well, people have come together this year to launch a campaign for the upkeep of 'Poshan Vatikas'. This aligns with the Mizo tradition of 'Talo-Mad-Yana,' which signifies selfless service and always being at the forefront of helping others.
Such efforts are truly praiseworthy. I am also proud of everyone associated with Anganwadi centres who has been part of such initiatives. These Anganwadi centres are now digitally connected via the 'Poshan Tracker,' with approximately nine crore beneficiaries registered on the platform. This has enabled better care for children, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers. We must continue this fight against malnutrition with the same spirit; we have to make our society completely free from malnutrition.
Friends,
All of us have celebrated Ganesha Utsav this month with great devotion and enthusiasm. Ganpati Bappa was welcomed across the country with deep reverence. This sacred occasion fills the entire atmosphere with joy and exuberance. Friends, Vighnharta Bhagwan Shri Ganesha symbolizes knowledge, wisdom, and the auspicious beginning of any endeavour. Deep reverence for Him exists not only in India; take the example of Shriman Panthoun Thirkhanon ji - he hails from Thailand. There, Lord Shri Ganesha is worshipped as 'Phra Phikanet.' When he was 19 years old, his father gifted him a photograph of Bhagwan Shri Ganesha. It was then that a profound sense of devotion awakened within him. He has spent over four decades studying traditions associated with Bhagwan Shri Ganesha. He has travelled across several Asian countries, including India and Nepal. He has held a special affection for Maharashtra.
After learning about the *Ashtavinayak* tradition, he has visited the region numerous times. Through his efforts, the *Ashtavinayak* yatra has gained popularity among devotees in Thailand as well. In 2002, he established the Ganesha Himal Museum in Chiang Mai, northern Thailand. Today, it houses more than 10,000 idols of Ganesha. The museum also has *Ashtavinayak* idols for devotees who are unable to travel to India. Worship rituals for Ganesha ji are conducted here every Sunday morning around 10 o'clock. Also, on special occasions connected with Ganesha, celebrations are held. This demonstrates how India's faith, art, and cultural traditions are gaining popularity in other countries as well. I wish that the blessings of Ganpati Bappa remain with everyone always.
Friends,
After every episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat,’ I receive messages from you on myriad topics. Do continue to share such inspiring stories. When you appreciate the initiatives taking place around you, the enthusiasm of those involved grows even further. Learning about these efforts through ‘Mann Ki Baat’ inspires people in other parts of the country as well. May this journey continue to move forward with your support. Celebrate the upcoming festivals with great joy and enthusiasm with your family and friends. I extend my best wishes to all of you once again.
Thank you very much.