Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation on Sunday, urging citizens to honor the 150th anniversary of the national song ‘Vande Mataram’. He called for a collective effort to carry forward its values to future generations.
While speaking on his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’, Modi announced that various programs will take place across India to commemorate this significant milestone. He reminded the public that the song, penned by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, was first sung by Rabindranath Tagore in 1896.
The Prime Minister utilized this platform to highlight remarkable citizen-led initiatives emerging across the country. Noteworthy projects included efforts to revive mangroves in Gujarat, the establishment of Garbage Cafes in Chhattisgarh, and initiatives to restore lakes in Bengaluru, showcasing the proactive role of citizens in environmental conservation.
Modi also praised the paramilitary forces, especially the BSF and CRPF, for incorporating Indian dog breeds such as Rampur Hounds and Mudhol Hounds into their teams. He celebrated the accomplishments of a Mudhol Hound that excelled in an international competition, proving the prowess of indigenous breeds.
“Our indigenous dogs have shown remarkable courage. Last year, during a patrol in a Maoist-affected area of Chhattisgarh, an Indian-bred CRPF dog detected 8 kg of explosives,” the Prime Minister shared.
During his talk, Modi mentioned that several of these Indian breeds would feature in the parade at Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, celebrating Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s 150th birth anniversary on October 31.
The Prime Minister also recognized farmers in Koraput, Odisha, who have taken to cultivating coffee with passion, transforming the lives of many, particularly local women. He emphasized that Indian coffee, sourced from regions like Chikmagalur and Wayanad, is cherished globally for its rich diversity.
“Indian coffee — from Chikmagalur, Coorg, Hassan, Nilgiris, Wayanad, and Malabar — is admired worldwide for its diversity and richness,” he stated.
In a nod to the digital age, Modi noted how social media has revitalized Sanskrit. He highlighted the efforts of young creators like Yash Salunke, who teaches the language through engaging social media content.
As he addressed the upcoming Chhath Puja celebrations, Modi described the festival as an embodiment of devotion and social unity, prompting citizens to participate in its observance. He called it a confluence of devotion, affection, and tradition.
“The Mahaparva of Chhath reflects the deep unity between culture, nature, and society,” he stated.
Furthermore, he discussed Operation Sindoor, a campaign that has inspired pride in regions previously affected by Maoist insurgency. Modi applauded the initiative for fostering a sense of joy in areas long overshadowed by violence.
“This time, lamps of joy were lit even in areas that had long remained under the shadow of Maoist violence,” he remarked.
Modi paid homage to tribal leader Komaram Bheem, praising his resistance against the Nizam of Hyderabad, and declared him a symbol of valor in Indian history. He also issued a reminder regarding the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda on November 15, a day dedicated to recognizing tribal heritage.
“Like Birsa Munda and Komaram Bheem, there are many other great luminaries in our tribal communities. I urge everyone to read about them and draw inspiration,” Modi concluded.
The Prime Minister’s address effectively rekindled national spirit and emphasized not only traditional values through ‘Vande Mataram’ but also the importance of local initiatives in enhancing communities across the country.
