'Drug-free India' to 'vocal for local': Key quotes from PM Modi’s 137th Mann Ki Baat

In the 137th episode of Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized grassroots efforts and individuals driving change through technology, social action, entrepreneurship, and community involvement. He began by discussing a digital project by Mumbai-based Krishna Sheshadri, which utilizes technology to make Indian history more captivating.

The Prime Minister then urged heightened public engagement in the 'Drug-Free Youth for Developed India' campaign, especially among the youth. He also highlighted the patriotic fervor surrounding August, encompassing events such as National Handloom Day, Quit India Movement anniversary, Partition Horrors Remembrance Day, Independence Day, and National Space Day.

Modi acknowledged the success of women street vendors through the PM SVANidhi scheme, citing examples from Ghaziabad and Bengaluru. Cleanliness was another focal point, with the Prime Minister spotlighting young volunteers in Uttar Pradesh and sanitation efforts during the Amarnath Yatra.

He featured individuals who transformed their passions and environmental conservation into professions, such as a flower farmer in Nagaland and women engaged in ecotourism and forest preservation in Odisha. Modi also spotlighted Mission ShaktiSAT, which is enrolling thousands of girls worldwide in satellite technology and innovation.

The Prime Minister also discussed the rising avocado farming among Indian farmers, paid homage to Bengali cinema legend Uttam Kumar prior to his upcoming centenary, and concluded by addressing Janmashtami, Vishwakarma Puja, Diwali, and the significance of supporting locally made products under the 'Vocal for Local' campaign.