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Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, in the 134th episode of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, highlighted inspiring stories of sporting achievement, cultural preservation, environmental conservation, social service, and community-driven development from across the country. The address reflected the spirit of collective national progress and celebrated individuals whose efforts are contributing to India’s growth and social transformation.
The Prime Minister began by congratulating athletes who created new national records during the National Senior Athletics Federation Competition held in Ranchi, Jharkhand. Nearly 800 athletes from across India participated in the event, where four national records were broken. Shri Modi specially interacted with sprinters Gurinder Veer Singh and Animesh Kujur, who captured national attention by breaking the men’s 100-metre national record three times within two days.
During the conversation, both athletes shared their inspiring journeys. Gurinder Veer Singh said, “I am a Petty Officer in the Indian Navy and I am India’s fastest sprinter. I have just now made a national record of 10.09 in 100 meters. And I am the first Indian to run below the 10.1 barrier. And I am trying to serve my country on the track and in uniform as well. Both my father and grandfather used to play sports, so it is our Indian culture that whenever there is a festival like Diwali, New Year, we clean our house.”
Animesh Kujur described how he transitioned from football to athletics and eventually represented India internationally. The Prime Minister praised their sportsmanship, determination, and mutual support, emphasizing that healthy competition and teamwork are essential for national success.
Addressing the intense summer heat affecting many parts of the country, Shri Narendra Modi advised citizens to take precautions and remain hydrated. He said, it is very hot in most parts of the country right now. Strong sun, hot winds, it is very important to take care of yourself in such weather. Keep drinking water. If at all you have to go out in the sun, do so with caution. Don’t forget the guidelines issued by various government departments in this regard. He also celebrated India’s rich tradition of indigenous summer beverages such as Aam Panna, Lassi, Buttermilk, Sattu Sherbet, Kokum Sherbet, Sol Kadhi, Panakam, Neer Mor, Sambaram, and Bael Pana. These drinks, he said, reflect India’s cultural diversity and embody the spirit of “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.”
The Prime Minister also spoke about India’s beloved summer fruit, the mango. He highlighted famous mango varieties from different regions, including Alphonso, Kesar, Dussehri, Langra, Zardalu, Chausa, Banganapalli, Totapuri, Neelam, Malgova, and Himsagar. He praised mango farmers for their contribution to the agricultural economy and noted that Indian mangoes are increasingly finding markets across the globe.
One of the most inspiring stories featured in the programme was that of Saji Valasheril from Aluva, Kerala. Following a tragic boat accident that claimed the lives of several students, Saji dedicated himself to teaching swimming. Through his river-based swimming club, more than 15,000 people, including differently-abled
Mann Ki Baat’ is a powerful platform that gives national recognition to the unsung heroes
BJP National President Shri Nitin Nabin and other senior leaders listened to the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji’s ‘Mann Ki Baat’ programme at the BJP headquarters along with party office-bearers and workers.
Shri Nabin said the Prime Minister gave a message to remain vigilant about health and safety during the scorching heat. At the same time, he shared his thoughts on inspiring topics such as the growing recognition of Indian products from ‘local to global,’ emerging sports talents, innovation, the increasing interest among youth in science and astronomy, public participation in water conservation, and the preservation of India’s rich cultural heritage along with its global respect.
He said ‘Mann Ki Baat’ is a powerful platform that gives national recognition to the unsung heroes of the country and efforts of public participation, which inspires all of us towards positive change.
children, have learned swimming skills. Shri Modi described his work as a powerful example of how commitment and compassion can save lives and strengthen communities.
The Prime Minister also discussed the return of the historic Chola-era copper plates from the Netherlands to India. The set of 24 copper plates, consisting of 21 large and three small plates, contains valuable information about the reign of King Rajendra Chola I and the achievements of the Chola Empire. Modi noted that the restitution of these artefacts was a matter of national pride and demonstrated India’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.
Continuing on the theme of heritage preservation, Modi highlighted the discovery of three rare copper plates in Malhar, Chhattisgarh, under the Gyan Bharatam Abhiyan. Dating back approximately 1,400 to 1,500 years, these inscriptions provide important insights into the governance, culture, and religious traditions of the Panduvanshi dynasty.
The Prime Minister also encouraged young people to cultivate scientific curiosity through astronomy. He praised organizations such as the Bangalore Astronomical Society, Astro Kerala, Big Bang Astronomy Club in Rajkot, Jyotirvidya Parisanstha, and ISAAC for promoting astronomy education and public engagement. Modi urged students and youth to join astronomy clubs and visit planetariums during their vacations to explore the wonders of the universe.
Environmental conservation was another major theme of the address. Modi highlighted the successful rescue of a Gangetic dolphin in Uttar Pradesh with the help of India’s first Ganga Dolphin Rescue Ambulance, developed under the Namami Gange programme. The specially designed mobile rescue unit helped save the dolphin after a 13-hour operation. The Prime Minister emphasized that protecting the Gangetic dolphin is crucial for preserving the biodiversity and ecological health of the Ganga river system.
The programme also showcased inspiring grassroots efforts to conserve water bodies. Modi praised Akash Gupta and his friends in Uttar Pradesh’s Basti district for cleaning the polluted Manorama River and removing large quantities of waste and water hyacinth. Similarly, he recognized retired teacher Balkrishna Aiya of Goa for helping address water scarcity by facilitating pipeline connections in the Maddi-Tolap area.
Concluding the programme, the Prime Minister shared the story of Girija Amma from Tamil Nadu, who inspired students across her network of schools to contribute one rupee daily for the welfare of Indian soldiers. The initiative raised nearly ₹40 lakh, demonstrating the power of collective effort and patriotism.