Mann ki Baat: Modi says our civilisation, culture & languages preach message of unity in diversity

Mangalore Today News Network

New Delhi, Nov 24, 2019: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that our civilisation, culture and languages preach the message of unity in diversity to the entire world. Sharing his thoughts in the 59th Mann ki Baat programme of All India Radio today, he said hundreds of languages have blossomed and flourished in the country for centuries.

He said, the United Nations has declared 2019 as the International Year of Indigenous Languages, and efforts are being made to conserve those languages which are on the verge of extinction. Mr Modi mentioned how a handful of people in a community in Uttarakhand came forward to conserve a language.

The Prime Minister quoted Father of Modern Hindi literature Bhartendu Harishchandra and Mahakavi Subramanya Bharati who always gave emphasis on mother tongue.

Speaking about National Cadet Corps, NCC day being celebrated today, Mr Modi interacted with some of the NCC cadets who shared their experiences in Ek Bharat Shresth Bharat camps and youth exchange programmes. 

The Prime minister said, NCC imbibes leadership qualities, patriotism, selfless service, discipline and hard work as an integral part of one’s character.

Mr Modi said the Armed Forces Flag Day is celebrated on the 7th of December when the nation pays homage to brave soldiers, for their valour and sacrifices. He said every citizen should come forward on the day and possess the flag of the Armed Forces and also contribute.

Referring to Fit India Movement, the Prime minister commended the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) for its initiative of Fit India week where many events are being organised with regard to the fitness aspect. He appealed to school boards and management across the country to celebrate Fit India week in December, saying it will inculcate the habit of fitness in our daily routine. Mr Modi said students, as well as their teachers and parents, can also participate in the Fit India week.

Stating that winter is knocking on the door, he suggested that people should make use of the weather to take the Fit India movement forward.

The Prime minister highlighted the importance of Constitution Day which falls on 26th of November every year. He said this year, it is even more special as the country is completing 70 years of its adoption. He said the occasion will be marked by a special programme in Parliament followed by many other events organised across the country throughout the year.

Talking about the recent Ayodhya verdict, Mr Modi said the entire country embraced it with open arms and with ease and peace. He thanked people for their patience, restraint and maturity.

The Prime Minister said scuba divers who were imparting training in Vishakhapatnam went up to 100 metres from the coast and took out the garbage. He said within 13 days, they removed over 4 tonnes of plastic waste from the sea. Mr Modi said if everyone takes pledge to clear the surroundings of plastic waste, Plastic Free India can become a new example for the whole world.

Mr Modi said our forefathers put a lot of emphasis on nature, environment, water, land and forests as they understood the importance of rivers and tried to inculcate a positive mindset towards rivers in the society.

Talking about examinations, Mr Modi said he wants to see his young friends smiling during them, their parents stress-free and teachers assured.