What Major Achievements Did PM Modi Highlight in His Latest Address?

Milestones in India's Self-Reliance

New Delhi: During his recent radio program 'Mann Ki Baat', Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the significant strides India has made towards self-sufficiency, particularly highlighting the inaugural flight of the domestically produced C-295 aircraft and the successful test of the indigenous Long-Range Land-Attack Cruise Missile.

In June alone, Modi pointed out, the nation has made remarkable advancements in the aviation industry.

He mentioned that the C-295 aircraft is being manufactured in India, stating, "A total of 40 such aircraft are currently under construction in our country, which is empowering MSMEs and the aerospace sector."

This initiative is also expected to create numerous job opportunities.

The first made-in-India C-295 military transport aircraft successfully took to the skies on June 10.

The Indian Air Force is set to acquire 56 C-295 transport aircraft at an estimated cost of around Rs 21,935 crore.

Of these, Tata Advanced Systems Limited will assemble 40 units in collaboration with Airbus at a facility located in Vadodara.

Modi also mentioned other achievements in June that instill pride among citizens.

He shared his experience at a Navy event in Kolkata, where INS Dunagiri, INS Shanshak, and INS Agrya were officially inducted into the Indian Navy's fleet, all of which were designed and manufactured domestically.

Additionally, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully tested an indigenous Long-Range Land-Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM) in June.

He remarked, "From the seas to the skies, India is becoming increasingly secure and self-reliant."

The LRLACM flight test was conducted off the coast of Odisha on June 15.

This missile is entirely developed in India, with all subsystems created by various DRDO laboratories and industry partners.

During his address, Modi expressed gratitude to citizens for adhering to his request to refrain from purchasing gold, traveling abroad, and opting for carpooling due to the situation in West Asia.

"I appreciate every citizen for not only supporting my appeal but also for actively cooperating in various ways," he stated.

He also encouraged farmers to practice chemical-free farming, safeguard their lands, and maximize the use of natural fertilizers.

In an initiative aimed at preparing youth for emerging technologies while staying connected to their heritage, he announced that the Central Sanskrit University in Delhi will introduce a B.Tech program in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science.

"This is a significant step towards merging modern technology with India's traditional knowledge," he added.

Modi noted that Indian culture is spreading globally, mentioning a group in the Dominican Republic, where the Indian community is small, that has formed a team called 'Brahmakamal Dominicana.'

"They study Vedic literature and learn to chant Vedic mantras without formal training, relying on audio recordings for correct pronunciation," he explained.

The Prime Minister also addressed the misconceptions surrounding the Hargila bird in Assam, which plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.

"In some areas of Assam, Hargila was seen as a bad omen, leading to the destruction of trees housing their nests," he noted, adding that biologist Purnima Devi Barman took steps to change these deep-rooted beliefs.

"She engaged with women to share scientific facts, and gradually, they joined the campaign, transforming the perception of the bird into a symbol of the villages," he said.

Modi highlighted the increasing interest among youth in pursuing sports as a career, mentioning the launch of the 'Nagaland Baby League' for football, which allows children aged 5 to 12 to participate.

"This initiative not only inspires them but also helps them develop their skills and identity," he remarked.

Discussing the root bridges of Meghalaya, Modi stated that India is seeking to include these structures in the UNESCO World Heritage Site Network.

He acknowledged the challenges posed by climate change to these bridges but praised the local community for their commitment to preserving this natural heritage.

"Currently, residents maintain over 120 root bridges, with some teams conducting annual inspections and others establishing nurseries to support the surrounding ecosystem," he noted.

Modi also commended women from Biaora in Madhya Pradesh for their initiative to clean up plastic waste in their community.

Rather than waiting for external help, they took the lead in collecting plastic waste and empty bottles, which eventually led to the creation of eco-bricks.

"These eco-bricks are now being used to enhance public spaces. In Rajgarh, hundreds of kilograms of plastic have been recycled and repurposed, transforming pollution into beauty, thanks to these women's efforts," he stated.

Looking ahead to the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in September, he mentioned that many have reached out to him suggesting he address topics related to Ganesh Utsav, even though the festival is still some time away.

He explained that the crafting of Ganesh idols begins well in advance, activating idol makers and those involved in the trade.

"I urge everyone to ensure that the Ganpati Bappa idol installed in your home or community is made from local soil and crafted by our own artisans," he emphasized.

"I also encourage idol makers to prioritize clay idols and ask buyers to verify the materials and origin of the idols they purchase," he concluded.