Bharat Moving Ahead With Collective Strength of Citizens: PM Modi

• PM Modi interacts with record-breaking sprinters Gurinder Veer Singh and Animesh Kujur
• Highlights return of Chola-era copper plates from the Netherlands
• Praises rescue of Gangetic dolphin and grassroots environmental efforts
• Urges youth to pursue astronomy and productive hobbies during holidays

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 31st May: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday highlighted the achievements of young athletes, heritage conservation initiatives, environmental protection efforts and inspiring citizen-led campaigns during the 134th episode of Mann Ki Baat.

Beginning the programme with India’s recent success in athletics, the Prime Minister congratulated athletes who set new national records during the National Senior Athletics Federation Competition in Ranchi, Jharkhand. He specially interacted with sprinters Gurinder Veer Singh and Animesh Kujur, whose performances in the men’s 100-metre race drew nationwide attention.

During the conversation, both athletes shared their journeys, challenges and determination to break barriers in Indian sprinting. Modi praised their sportsmanship and their commitment to taking Indian athletics to new heights. He expressed confidence that the duo would continue to bring glory to Bharat in international competitions.

The Prime Minister also advised citizens to take precautions against the ongoing summer heat and highlighted traditional Indian beverages such as Aam Panna, lassi, buttermilk, sattu sherbet, kokum sherbet and bael-based drinks, describing them as reflections of India’s diverse cultural traditions.

Speaking about agriculture, Modi praised mango growers across the country and highlighted the growing global demand for Indian mango varieties, including Alphonso, Kesar, Dussehri, Langra, Zardalu and Banganapalli.

The Prime Minister lauded several citizen-led initiatives, including a swimming programme in Kerala run by Saji Valasheril, who has taught swimming to more than 15,000 people. He said such efforts demonstrate how individual commitment can transform communities and save lives.

Modi also spoke about the return of ancient Chola-era copper plates from the Netherlands, describing it as a moment of pride for every Indian. He said the inscriptions provide valuable insights into the Chola Empire’s maritime strength, governance and cultural heritage. He further highlighted the discovery of rare copper plates in Chhattisgarh under the Gyan Bharatam Abhiyan, calling them important links to India’s civilisational history.

Encouraging scientific curiosity among young people, the Prime Minister praised astronomy clubs across the country and urged students to visit planetariums and participate in astronomy-related activities during their holidays.

On environmental conservation, Modi highlighted the successful rescue of a Gangetic dolphin trapped in a canal in Uttar Pradesh. He noted that India’s first Ganga Dolphin Rescue Ambulance, developed under the Namami Gange programme, played a crucial role in saving the endangered aquatic species.

The Prime Minister also commended grassroots efforts to restore rivers and improve water access. He cited the example of Akash Gupta and his team in Uttar Pradesh’s Basti district, who cleaned sections of the Manorama River, and retired teacher Balkrishna Aiya from Goa, who helped improve water supply infrastructure in his area.

Modi further praised educator Girija Amma of Tamil Nadu, whose students collectively raised nearly ₹40 lakh through small daily contributions for the welfare of Indian soldiers. He described the initiative as a powerful example of patriotism and civic responsibility.

Concluding the programme, the Prime Minister urged citizens to identify and support positive efforts taking place around them, saying that such initiatives strengthen confidence in the nation’s collective progress and people-driven development.