PM Modi Reflects on 12 Years of Mann Ki Baat, Celebrates India’s Grassroots Achievements

Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked 12 years of his monthly radio programme, Mann Ki Baat, on October 25, 2026, describing the journey as “no less than a pilgrimage.” During the programme’s 139th episode, he expressed gratitude to listeners for their continued support and highlighted the inspiring contributions of ordinary citizens who are helping shape India’s social, economic and technological progress.

Launched on October 3, 2014, Mann Ki Baat has provided a platform for sharing stories of innovation, community service, environmental conservation and cultural preservation. Reflecting on its journey, PM Modi described listeners as fellow travellers who have guided and enriched the programme over the years. He emphasised that the initiative had enabled him to recognise the dedication, courage and creativity of people whose achievements often remain outside the national spotlight.

Modi described how cotton grown naturally, without chemical fertilisers or poisons, is spun and woven by hand and coloured with natural dyes. He said it gives people chemical-free cloth and went on to praise the project for reviving traditional farming practices, supporting farmers and bringing many women into work that makes them self-reliant. File Photo. | The New Indian Express 

Empowering Women Through Traditional Skills

One of the key initiatives highlighted during the broadcast was Nav-Trinjan, a project supported by the Kheti Virasat Mission in Punjab’s Malwa region. The initiative promotes organic cotton cultivation and traditional weaving while creating livelihood opportunities for rural women.

PM Modi shared the experiences of women who developed weaving skills and became contributors to their household incomes. He also highlighted how the initiative is helping preserve traditional craftsmanship and promote naturally coloured cotton, which can reduce dependence on chemical dyes.

The story demonstrated how traditional knowledge, skill development and sustainable production can work together to strengthen rural livelihoods. It also reflected the potential of women-led initiatives to preserve India's cultural heritage while creating new economic opportunities.

Community Participation in Environmental Conservation

Environmental protection was another important theme of the episode. The Prime Minister highlighted community-led efforts to revive the Heval River in Uttarakhand’s Tehri Garhwal region, where local residents and the administration worked together to improve water availability.

The initiative involved measures such as rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge and tree plantation. By bringing communities together around a shared environmental goal, the effort illustrated the importance of local participation in conserving natural resources.

PM Modi also encouraged people to maintain cleanliness during the festive season, emphasising that responsible individual actions can contribute to healthier and cleaner communities.

Promoting Local Products and Indian Innovation

The Prime Minister highlighted the growing reach of Indian products in international markets, citing examples of makhana from Bihar and arhar dal from Karnataka reaching overseas consumers. He also discussed initiatives that combine traditional craftsmanship with modern packaging and design to improve the marketability of locally produced goods.

Khadi and other indigenous products received particular attention, with PM Modi encouraging people to support Indian artisans and small businesses during the festive season. Such efforts can help strengthen local enterprises, create employment and preserve traditional skills.

The programme also showcased India's growing technology ecosystem. During his visit to IIT Madras, the Prime Minister interacted with young innovators developing solutions involving artificial intelligence, healthcare, banking fraud recovery, electric mobility and battery technology. These examples highlighted the potential of research institutions and start-ups to address practical challenges through homegrown innovation.

Healthcare and Science at the Forefront

PM Modi drew attention to the e-Sanjeevani telemedicine platform, which has expanded access to medical consultations through digital technology. Telemedicine can be particularly useful for people in remote areas, helping them connect with healthcare professionals without always travelling long distances.

He also shared the story of a family from Madhya Pradesh that chose organ donation following the death of their daughter, Shivani, in a road accident. The Prime Minister praised the family's decision as an act of compassion that could give others a chance at life.

The episode further remembered Narinder Singh Kapany, widely recognised as the Father of Fibre Optics. His pioneering research contributed to the development of optical fibre technology, which now supports modern telecommunications and high-speed internet. His achievements served as a reminder of the lasting impact scientific research can have on society.

The MGMM Outlook 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Mann Ki Baat has completed 12 years, marking a significant journey of connecting with citizens and bringing their achievements into the national spotlight. During the programme’s 139th episode, aired on October 25, 2026, the Prime Minister highlighted inspiring initiatives in women’s empowerment, environmental conservation, indigenous products and technological innovation. Examples such as Nav-Trinjan in Punjab, the revival of the Heval River in Uttarakhand and the growing reach of Indian products demonstrate how community participation, traditional knowledge and local entrepreneurship can contribute to the country’s development.

The programme also highlighted India’s progress in digital healthcare, scientific research and emerging technologies, showcasing the potential of homegrown innovation to address real-world challenges. From e-Sanjeevani’s telemedicine services to the contributions of young innovators and the legacy of fibre-optics pioneer Narinder Singh Kapany, these stories reflect the importance of combining scientific advancement with social responsibility. By recognising the efforts of ordinary citizens, Mann Ki Baat continues to encourage public participation, support for indigenous enterprises and a stronger spirit of service, reinforcing the role of collective effort in building a progressive and self-reliant India.

(Sources: Firstpost, The New Indian Express, Times of India)