PM Modi showcases achievements of “Atmanirbhar Bharat” in Mann Ki Baat’s 135th edition

New Delhi, June 28: Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in his monthly radio program “Mann Ki Baat” on Sunday that the month of June has witnessed many inspiring efforts for India, such as self-reliance in the defense sector, new achievements in the aviation sector, global acceptance of yoga, public participation, social security, environmental protection, and preservation of cultural heritage. He said that the positive changes taking place in various parts of the country are providing new strength to the resolve for a developed and self-reliant India.

Addressing the countrymen in the 135th episode of “Mann Ki Baat” on Sunday, the Prime Minister said that the year 2026 is about to be completed in half and during the last six months, the country has achieved remarkable achievements in many areas. The month of June, in particular, has witnessed successes and mass movements that have further strengthened India’s strategic capabilities, technological prowess, social consciousness, and global reputation.

The Prime Minister said that the responsibility and awareness displayed by the countrymen amid the war-like situation in West Asia reflects India’s collective strength. His appeals to limit gold purchases, postpone foreign travel, adopt carpooling, and promote natural farming have been positively received. The country is always ready to work unitedly on issues of national interest.

The Prime Minister said that many families have decided to recycle old jewelry instead of buying new gold for events like weddings. A large number of people have postponed their foreign trips and prioritized public transport. People are adopting carpooling, which is saving petrol and diesel. Reports of increased use of natural fertilizers are also being received from various states.

He said that he recently had the opportunity to attend an important naval event in Kolkata. INS Dunagiri, INS Sanshodhan, and INS Agray have been inducted into the Indian Navy. These warships, from design to construction, were all completed in India. This achievement is not only a success in the defense sector, but also a testament to India’s technological capabilities, engineering prowess, and self-reliance.

The Prime Minister noted that in June, the country also achieved a historic milestone in the aviation sector. The “Made in India” C-295 transport aircraft completed its first successful flight. Forty such aircraft are being manufactured in India. This is giving new impetus to the country’s MSME sector, aerospace industry, and skill development. Additionally, new employment opportunities are being created for the youth.

He noted that this month, DRDO successfully tested the indigenous Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile. This achievement is the result of the collaborative efforts of DRDO and Indian industry. This has further strengthened India’s defense capabilities, and the country is moving towards strengthening its security from sea to sky.

The Prime Minister noted that Indian culture is reaching remote areas of the world. In the Dominican Republic, members of a group called “Brahmakamal Dominicana” are studying Vedic literature and learning to chant Vedic mantras. This is a testament to India’s cultural strength and global influence.

The Prime Minister said that the Living Root Bridges of Meghalaya are India’s unique heritage. These bridges, built with decades of hard work, represent a wonderful example of the balance between nature and humanity. India has applied to include them in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The Prime Minister said that local communities are working to preserve more than 120 root bridges. He also mentioned the contribution of Padma awardee Hali Var, who has dedicated his life to the preservation of these bridges.

The Prime Minister said that International Yoga Day was once again successful in connecting the entire world with India’s cultural heritage. Yoga programs were organized at more than 2,500 locations worldwide. Millions of people in India also participated in Yoga Day. He said that today, yoga is not only an Indian tradition but has also become a part of the global lifestyle.

The Prime Minister noted that Indian athletes performed exceptionally well at the World Yogasana Championship held in Ahmedabad. India won a total of 114 medals, including 102 gold medals. This achievement is a matter of pride for the country and demonstrates that yoga is not only a means of health but is also making its mark globally as a competitive sport.

The Prime Minister noted that the Pethkar family of Bahadurpura village in Nanded district, Maharashtra, has set a wonderful example of social concern. On the occasion of a wedding ceremony, the family arranged accident insurance for approximately 3,500 villagers, providing each person with an insurance cover of ₹1 lakh. This initiative demonstrates that personal happiness can be linked to social security and public welfare.

The Prime Minister stated that the Central Government is also working tirelessly to provide social security to millions of families. The Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) provides accident insurance of up to ₹2 lakh for an annual premium of just ₹20. More than 58 crore people have joined the scheme so far, including approximately 28 crore women. More than ₹3,700 crore has been provided as assistance to affected families through this scheme.

The Prime Minister stated that the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) is also a vital support for millions of families. Life insurance cover of ₹2 lakh is provided for an annual premium of only ₹436. More than 27 crore people have joined the scheme, and approximately 11 lakh families have received assistance of ₹22,000 crore.

The Prime Minister said that superstition holds society back, while science and awareness move it forward. Referring to the conservation campaign for the Hargila bird in Assam, he said that this bird was once considered inauspicious, and even the trees where its nests were cut down.

He said that biologist Purnima Devi Burman raised awareness among the people based on scientific facts, and gradually thousands of women joined the campaign. Today, these women are known as the “Hargila Army” and are playing a vital role in the conservation of this rare bird. This campaign shows that even age-old beliefs can be changed through correct information and social participation.

Referring to the Nagaland Baby League, the Prime Minister said that this initiative is connecting children between the ages of five and twelve with football. This is nurturing children’s talents and increasing interest in sports. The Nagaland Women’s Futsal League is also providing opportunities for girls to showcase their sporting talents. Such initiatives are paving the way for social change through sports and giving new direction to the youth.

He said that in the age of technology, it is essential to maintain a balance between tradition and modernity. Nalanda University has revived the ancient Shastrartha tradition in a new form. He said that this culture of dialogue, argument, and discussion provides students with a broad perspective.

The Prime Minister said that the Central Sanskrit University has decided to launch a B.Tech program in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science. This will help develop new technologies for Indian languages, preserve ancient texts in digital format, and integrate traditional knowledge with modern technology.

The Prime Minister said that the women of Biawara in Rajgarh district of Madhya Pradesh have set an inspiring example of environmental protection by converting plastic waste into eco-bricks. Plastic, which was once a cause of pollution, is now being used to beautify public places.

The Prime Minister said that on the occasion of the upcoming Ganesh festival, people should prioritize Ganesh idols made of clay. He urged people to avoid plaster of Paris idols and buy idols made by local artisans. ‘Vocal for Local’ is not just an economic campaign, but also a means to enhance the cultural and social strength of the country.

The Prime Minister said that making water conservation a mass movement is the need of the hour. He called for further strengthening the “Catch the Rain” campaign, saying that saving every drop of rainwater would be an important step toward securing the country’s future. He appealed to the countrymen to make water conservation a part of their daily lives.