PrintFriendly
Mann Ki Baat
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, in the 135th episode of Mann Ki Baat aired on 28 June 2026, reflected on the achievements of the nation during the first half of the year and highlighted India’s remarkable progress in the fields of defence, aviation, self-reliance, yoga, and citizen-led development. The Prime Minister emphasized that the true strength of India lies in its people and their collective efforts
toward nation-building
Addressing the nation, the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi noted that six months of 2026 had already passed and that the country had witnessed several significant achievements during this period. He stated that many of these accomplishments were directly connected to India’s security, technological advancement, and the vision of an Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India). He expressed pride in the nation’s growing capabilities and the increasing contribution of Indian innovation and industry in strengthening national development.
One of the major achievements highlighted by the Prime Minister was the induction of three indigenously built naval vessels into the Indian Navy. Recalling his recent participation in a naval event in Kolkata, he informed listeners that INS Dunagiri, INS Sanshodhak, and INS Agray had been commissioned into the Navy. He underlined that these vessels were completely indigenous, from design and engineering to manufacturing and construction. This achievement, he said, represents India’s growing maritime strength and demonstrates the country’s capability to develop advanced defence platforms using domestic expertise and resources. The induction of these ships is expected to enhance India’s naval preparedness while also showcasing the success of the government’s efforts to promote indigenous defence production.
The Prime Minister also highlighted a significant milestone in India’s aviation sector. He spoke about the successful maiden flight of the C-295 transport aircraft manufactured in India. The aircraft is an example of India’s growing aerospace capabilities and a symbol of the nation’s commitment to becoming a major manufacturing hub. He noted that 40 such aircraft are being produced within the country, creating new opportunities for Indian industries and workers. The manufacturing project is expected to provide a major boost to the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector and strengthen the domestic aerospace ecosystem. It will also generate employment opportunities and encourage technological innovation, thereby contributing to the broader vision of self-reliance in strategic sectors.
Another achievement mentioned by the Prime Minister was the successful testing of an indigenous Long-Range Land-Attack Cruise Missile by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). He stated that the missile was developed through close collaboration between DRDO laboratories and Indian industry partners. The successful test demonstrates the growing maturity of India’s defence research and manufacturing capabilities. The Prime Minister remarked that such achievements indicate how India is becoming increasingly secure and self-reliant across land, sea, and air domains. The development of advanced indigenous defence technologies not only strengthens national security but also reduces dependence on foreign imports.
Turning to global events, Prime Minister Shri Modi highlighted the enthusiastic participation witnessed during International Yoga Day 2026. He noted that India’s efforts to promote yoga as a universal practice have received worldwide support and recognition. This year, yoga programmes were organised at more than 2,500 locations across the globe, reflecting the growing acceptance of yoga as a means of achieving physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Within India, crores of citizens participated in yoga sessions held at various locations, demonstrating the deep connection between the people and this ancient tradition. The Prime Minister described the overwhelming participation as a source of pride for the nation and evidence of yoga’s expanding global influence.
The Prime Minister also referred to the World Yogasana Championship held in Ahmedabad during June 2026. The championship generated considerable interest and discussion across the country. India emerged as the leading nation in the competition, securing a total of 114 medals, including an impressive 102 gold medals. This outstanding performance enabled India to top the medal tally. Congratulating the athletes, Prime Minister Modi praised their dedication, discipline, and commitment. He said their success had brought honour to the country and inspired young people to embrace yoga and sports. The achievement also reflected India’s leadership in promoting yoga not merely as a cultural heritage but also as a competitive sporting discipline.
A major theme of the Prime Minister’s address was the role of ordinary citizens in driving positive change. He observed that countless efforts taking place across the country—whether large or small—offer valuable lessons and inspiration. According to him, these initiatives demonstrate that meaningful transformation becomes possible when determination is combined with community participation and social support. He encouraged listeners to continue sharing stories of innovation, social service, environmental conservation, and local development occurring in their neighbourhoods. Such stories, he said, often inspire people across the nation and create a ripple effect of positive action.
Prime Minister Shri Modi reiterated that India’s greatest strength lies in its people. He noted that the country’s progress is not solely driven by government programmes or institutions but also by the active participation of citizens who work tirelessly to improve their communities. Through collective effort, India is achieving significant milestones in diverse sectors ranging from defence and technology to health, education, culture, and environmental sustainability. The Prime Minister stressed that every citizen has a role to play in the nation’s journey towards becoming a developed country.
Concluding the programme, the Prime Minister drew attention to the importance of water conservation We must save every single drop of rainwater. We cannot let the momentum of the ‘Catch the Rain’ campaign slacken in the slightest. He adeded, So, I urge you specially: let us come together to save every drop of rain. Emphasizing that every drop of rainwater is precious, he called upon people to work together to conserve water resources and ensure sustainable management of this vital resource. Water conservation, he noted, is not merely an environmental responsibility but a national necessity. By harvesting rainwater and promoting efficient use of water, communities can contribute significantly to the country’s future resilience and prosperity.
The 135th episode of Mann Ki Baat thus presented a comprehensive picture of India’s achievements in self-reliance, defence, aviation, yoga, and citizen participation. Through examples of indigenous technological progress and community-driven initiatives, the Prime Minister conveyed a message of confidence, unity, and collective responsibility. The address underscored India’s ongoing transformation into a stronger, more self-reliant, and globally respected nation while encouraging citizens to continue contributing to the country’s development journey.