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Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 31st August 2025 addressed the nation through the 125th episode of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, reflecting on recent challenges, achievements, and inspiring stories of ordinary Indians shaping the nation’s future. His address was a blend of compassion for those affected by natural calamities, encouragement to young athletes, appreciation of grassroots initiatives, and a renewed call for Vocal for Local and Atmanirbhar Bharat
Opening his remarks, the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi expressed grief over the devastation caused by floods and landslides in several parts of the country during the monsoon season. He described the destruction of homes, submergence of fields, collapse of bridges, and the risk to lives as deeply saddening for every Indian.
Celebrating Sporting Spirit in Jammu & Kashmir
Turning to positive developments, PM Shri Modi highlighted two remarkable achievements from Jammu and Kashmir that brought joy amid adversity. Pulwama hosted its first-ever day-night cricket match under the Royal Premier League, which witnessed overwhelming participation from local youth. He said the sight of thousands of cricket enthusiasts enjoying a match under floodlights in Pulwama symbolised the transformative changes underway in the region.
The Prime Minister also celebrated the success of the inaugural Khelo India Water Sports Festival held at the iconic Dal Lake in Srinagar. More than 800 athletes from across India participated, with women competing in equal numbers with men. Congratulating Madhya Pradesh for topping the medal tally, followed by Haryana and Odisha, he lauded the warmth and hospitality of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
To bring the experience closer to listeners, PM Shri Modi interacted with two young participants—Rashmita Sahu of Odisha, a canoeing champion with over 40 medals, and Mohsin Ali of Srinagar, who won a gold medal at the festival. Rashmita spoke of her journey from swimming in her village river to winning gold at Dal Lake, while Mohsin shared his Olympic dream and pride at representing Kashmir. Shri Modi encouraged both, praising Rashmita’s father for his support and Mohsin’s perseverance as the son of a labourer.
Empowering Aspirants Through ‘Pratibha Setu’
The Prime Minister then announced a new digital initiative—‘Pratibha Setu’—designed to support thousands of deserving UPSC aspirants who, despite clearing various stages, fall short of the final merit list. The databank now holds profiles of over 10,000 such candidates, including those who attempted civil, engineering, and medical services exams. Private companies can connect with these talented youth for employment opportunities. PM ShriModi said the initiative has already resulted in hundreds of candidates securing jobs, giving them renewed confidence and purpose.
From Shahdol to Germany
In an anecdote reflecting India’s growing global appeal, PM Shri Modi narrated how his reference to Shahdol’s football players during a podcast with Lex Fridman inspired German football coach Dietmar Beiersdorfer. Moved by the dedication of grassroots players in Madhya Pradesh, Beiersdorfer has offered to train some of them at his academy in Germany. Modi praised this development as a testimony to India’s rising football culture and urged sports enthusiasts to visit Shahdol to witness the revolution in progress.
Stories of Patriotism and Self-Reliance
The Prime Minister appreciated Jitendra Singh Rathore, a security guard from Surat, who has been documenting the sacrifices of thousands of martyrs since World War I. By preserving photographs and collecting soil from beneath the feet of martyrs’ parents, Rathore has created a living repository of patriotism. PM called him an inspiration for every citizen.
He also highlighted the story of Solar Didi—Devki from Muzaffarpur, Bihar—whose solar pump has transformed farming across 40 acres in her village. Once confined to household chores, Devki now commands respect as an entrepreneur, receiving payments through UPI and empowering others to adopt solar energy. PM said her journey illustrates how solar power is not only a source of electricity but also a tool of economic and social transformation.
Vocal for local
On India’s cultural influence abroad, he mentioned the unveiling of a statue of Maharishi Valmiki in Italy, a 51-feet statue of Lord Ram in Canada, and a Ramayana-themed art exhibition in Vladivostok, Russia. He stated “This love for Ramayana and Indian culture is now reaching every corner of the world. There is a famous place in Russia – Vladivostok. Many people know it as a place where the temperature falls to -20 to -30 degrees Celsius in winters. This month, a unique exhibition was held in Vladivostok. Paintings made by Russian children on different themes of Ramayana were showcased there. A competition was also organised there. It is indeed heartening to see the growing awareness of Indian culture in different parts of the world.”
Concluding, he urged citizens to celebrate festivals with Swadeshi products, uphold cleanliness, and embrace the mantra of “Vocal for Local, Atmanirbhar Bharat, and Developed India.”
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Under the leadership of Modi ji, India will set new records of Self-Reliance and Development: JP Nadda
BJP National President listens to “Mann ki Baat” in Maharashtra
BJP National President and Union Health Minister Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda listened to the 125th episode of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s popular radio program “Mann Ki Baat” in Mumbai on 31 August 2025 with activists and common citizens. On this occasion, the BJP National General Secretary Shri Vinod Tawde, along with many office bearers and workers, were also present.
On the auspicious occasion of Ganeshotsav, Shri Nadda visited Vighnaharta Ganapati Bappa at Chandralok Ganpati Mandal in Mumbai. After this, he listened to the broadcast of “Mann Ki Baat” with the people present in the mandap. He said this moment is special for him as he got the opportunity to listen to the motivational messages of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in Maharashtra.
The BJP National President said “Mann Ki Baat” is not just a radio program but it is a bridge of communication between people. Through this, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has inspired the citizens to actively participate in building a ‘Developed India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’. The Prime Minister has expressed his valuable views regarding our sporting talents, scientific innovations and more use of indigenous products in our daily life. So far this program has inspired lakhs and crores of people to work towards patriotism, innovation and social upliftment.
Shri Nadda expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and said he inspired the people by bringing together the various innovations happening across the country. His visionary thinking and constant dialogue have united people across the country. Shri Nadda expressed confidence that under the leadership of Modi ji, India will set new records of self-reliance and development.