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Mann Ki Baat
The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 25th January addressed the 130th episode of his widely-listened radio program “Mann Ki Baat”. This edition marked the first broadcast of the year 2026 and was delivered on the eve of Republic Day — a day that commemorates the coming into force of the Constitution of India and a moment to honour the country’s democratic ethos
The Prime Minister began by greeting the nation and highlighting the significance of National Voter’s Day, celebrated on 25 January each year. He described the milestone of becoming a voter at the age of 18 not merely as a legal formality, but as a fundamental chapter in the life of every citizen, calling it the “soul of democracy” and urging communities to celebrate new voters to strengthen democratic participation.
A key theme throughout the address was youth engagement and empowerment. The Prime Minister urged young citizens to actively register as voters upon turning 18, framing this as both a civic responsibility and a patriotic duty instilled by the Constitution. He lauded grassroots workers and volunteers involved in the electoral process, emphasizing their contribution to maintaining India’s vibrant democratic fabric.
Reflecting on the Start-up India initiative, the Prime Minister shared a personal memory from January 2016, tracing the evolution of India’s start-up ecosystem over the past decade. He noted India’s transformation into one of the largest start-up ecosystems globally, with innovators venturing into emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, space, semiconductors, green technologies, and biotechnology. These achievements, he said, symbolized both the ambition and creativity of Indian youth.
The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of quality and excellence in India’s economic transformation. He called on citizens, particularly those connected with industry and enterprise, to adopt a commitment to quality in all endeavors — from
A key theme throughout the address was youth engagement and empowerment. The Prime Minister urged young citizens to actively register as voters upon turning 18, framing this as both a civic responsibility and a patriotic duty instilled by the Constitution
manufacturing and technology to textiles and everyday products — encouraging a shift from “just working” to ensuring global standards of excellence.
Beyond governance and industry, the address celebrated public-led environmental and social initiatives across India. He recounted the revival of the Tamsa River in Uttar Pradesh and water conservation and afforestation efforts in drought–prone Ananthapur, Andhra Pradesh, as examples of community-driven change. These narratives underscored the power of collective civic action in addressing ecological and social challenges.
In conclusion, this episode of Mann Ki Baat weaved together themes of democracy, youth participation, innovation, quality, community service, and cultural pride. It offered citizens a call to action — encouraging them to embrace their responsibilities as voters, to support national growth with quality and innovation, and to work together for social and environmental betterment.