PM Modi Calls on Citizens to Support Indian Athletes at Paris Olympics in ‘Mann Ki Baat’ Address

News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/28th July 2024

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his 112th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat,’ called upon the citizens of India to rally behind the nation’s athletes competing in the Paris Olympics. With a contingent of 117 athletes across 16 sports, India aims to showcase its growing prowess on the global stage.

During this address, his second after the Lok Sabha Elections and the first following the presentation of the Union Budget 2024-25, PM Modi emphasized the significance of the Paris Olympics. “In the entire world, Paris Olympics is all over there at this point of time. Our players have the opportunity to let our tricolour at the world level, they have this opportunity to do something for the country. You all should encourage them,” he said, urging citizens to support the athletes.

The broadcast was attentively listened to by prominent figures, including Union Minister and BJP chief JP Nadda, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, as well as various BJP Chief Ministers and Deputy Chief Ministers, at the BJP headquarters in Delhi.

PM Modi highlighted the achievements of Indian youth in the International Mathematics Olympiad, where participants from over 100 countries competed. He proudly noted that India’s team ranked among the top five, showcasing the nation’s intellectual strength.

Another significant announcement made by the Prime Minister was the inclusion of Charaideo Maidam of Assam in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list. This marks the 43rd World Heritage Site in India and the first from the Northeast. “Charaideo means a shining city on the hills. It was the first capital of the Ahom dynasty. The people of the Ahom dynasty traditionally kept the mortal remains of their ancestors and their valuables in the Moidams,” he explained. The site is expected to attract more tourism, promoting cultural pride and historical awareness.

PM Modi also lauded Project Pari, an initiative aimed at beautifying public spaces with vibrant paintings and artworks by local artists. “A country can progress only by taking pride in its culture. Many such efforts are being made in India as well, one such effort is Project Pari,” he said, encouraging citizens to appreciate and support these artistic endeavors.

Additionally, he highlighted the remarkable growth of the Khadi Village Industries, which have surpassed a turnover of Rs 1.5 lakh crore for the first time. The sales of Khadi have increased by 400%, creating numerous employment opportunities, especially for women who make up the majority of the workforce in this industry.

Reflecting on the inputs he received for July’s episode, PM Modi expressed his happiness at seeing many youngsters coming together to address collective issues and transform society. “I’ve been getting numerous inputs for this month’s #MannKiBaat, which will take place on Sunday, the 28th. Happy to see several youngsters in particular highlight collective efforts aimed at transforming our society,” he shared on social media platform X, encouraging continued engagement through MyGov, the NaMo App, or by recording messages on a dedicated phone line.

The previous episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat,’ aired on June 30, 2024, was PM Modi’s first address to the nation since February 2024, due to delays caused by the Lok Sabha Elections. The Prime Minister’s monthly radio programme continues to be a platform for addressing significant national issues and inspiring collective action among Indian citizens.

The call to support Indian athletes in Paris and the various initiatives highlighted by PM Modi in his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ address reflect the government’s commitment to fostering national pride, cultural heritage, and societal progress.