INDIA is writing a new chapter of development under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The broadcast of the 100th episode of his unique and creative monthly conversation with countrymen, through radio programme titled Mann Ki Baat, is truly a milestone. Over the course of its 100 episodes, the programme has given a huge impetus to major initiatives of the Government, such as Swachh Bharat; Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao; Fit India; JalJivan; Vocal for Local; Atmanirbhar Bharat; Ek Bharat-Shreshth Bharat; Accessible India and Stand-up India etc.
Ever since the first episode was aired on October 3, 2014, PM Modi’s method of conversing with the nation has struck a unique chord. While people share their ideas for the country, they also share their achievements, joys, concerns and triumphs. With every episode, the number of listeners for this programme, which is completely non-political, has increased and continues to grow. The programme has become a monthly national tradition, inspiring millions of people to participate in India’s development journey. Through this programme, PM Modi is doing several things – educating, guiding, sharing revolutionary ideas, as well as motivating citizens to work for social change and national development with different communities. In terms of reach and popularity, Mann Ki Baat is unmatched by any other programme in the world. In addition to a sense of pride that this programme infuses in every Indian, Mann Ki Baathas also led to significant changes on the ground.
By talking about local arts and artisans for the first time, PM Modi through his Mann Ki Baat has given them the muchneeded recognition and brand value that they deserve.It has opened up unique opportunities for them to carve out a niche for themselves in the market. Mann Ki Baathas also played an important role in popularising Khadi, which contributed phenomenally to the revival of the rural economy.
The impact of the programme can be gauged from the fact that the import of toys dropped 70 per cent – from $371 million in 2018-19 to $110 million in 2021-22 – after PM Modi’s exhortation of support for local toys and the potential of the domestic toy industry. In contrast, the exports of toys from India increased from $202 million to $326 million.The stupendous success of ‘Selfie with Daughter’ is another shining example of how the message of Mann Ki Baat reaches every household. Domestic tourism has also got a big boost from this programme. Cleanliness, water conservation, climate change, stress-free education and environmental protection have now become mass movements because of Mann Ki Baat.
The programme is broadcast in 23 Indian and 11 foreign languages. Each episode features inspirational stories of unsung heroes, grassroots champions and change-leaders from across the country who are bringing about social change through their silent and inspiring work.
The live telecast of the positivity-filled Mann Ki Baat programme at the United Nations headquarters also shows that today PM Modi holds the most distinguished position among political leaders of the world. His programme connects the many social and cultural ties that bind our nation together and also presents a picture of a new selfreliant India in the Amrit Kaal envisioned by Prime Minister Modi.
