Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday urged citizens to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the national song ‘Vande Mataram’, which he characterized as a vibrant representation of India. He called for efforts to carry its values forward to future generations during his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’.
Modi announced that various programmes will occur nationwide to celebrate this significant milestone for the national song, originally penned by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay and first performed by Rabindranath Tagore in 1896.
During his engaging 30-minute address, Modi highlighted numerous initiatives led by citizens across the country. These included efforts to revive mangroves in Gujarat, the establishment of Garbage Cafes in Chhattisgarh, and projects aimed at the restoration of lakes in Bengaluru.
The Prime Minister specifically commended the contributions of paramilitary forces like the BSF and CRPF, particularly for incorporating indigenous dog breeds such as Rampur Hounds and Mudhol Hounds into their teams.
Modi noted that a Mudhol Hound recently excelled at an international competition, outperforming foreign breeds. He emphasized their significant role in enhancing national security.
“Our indigenous dogs have shown remarkable courage. Last year, during a patrol in a Maoist-affected area of Chhattisgarh, an Indian-bred CRPF dog detected 8 kg of explosives,” the Prime Minister stated.
Furthermore, he mentioned that some Indian dog breeds will participate in a parade at Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, celebrating Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s 150th birth anniversary on October 31.
Modi also acknowledged the remarkable work of farmers in Koraput, Odisha who enthusiastically cultivate coffee, transforming lives, especially those of local women.
“Indian coffee — from Chikmagalur, Coorg, Hassan, Nilgiris, Wayanad, and Malabar — is admired worldwide for its diversity and richness,” he remarked, showcasing India’s agricultural prowess.
In a broader cultural context, Modi noted the resurgence of Sanskrit in the realm of social media and digital culture. He referenced Yash Salunke, a young creator who brings Sanskrit to life through innovative content.
As he extended his best wishes for Chhath Puja, Modi characterized the festival as a confluence of devotion, affection, and tradition, embodying India’s social unity.
“The Mahaparva of Chhath represents the deep unity between culture, nature, and society,” he encouraged citizens to participate where possible.
Referring to the impactful Operation Sindoor, Modi expressed that it filled the nation with pride, especially in areas previously troubled by Maoist insurgency.
“This time, lamps of joy were lit even in regions that had long endured Maoist violence,” he highlighted, emphasizing the campaign’s symbolic significance.
Remembering tribal leader Komaram Bheem, Modi praised his courageous stance against the Nizam of Hyderabad. He called Bheem a symbol of resistance and empowerment among tribal communities.
Additionally, he paid homage to Bhagwan Birsa Munda, as the nation prepares to celebrate his birth anniversary — Janajateeya Gaurav Diwas — on November 15.
“Like Birsa Munda and Komaram Bheem, many other luminaries in our tribal communities deserve recognition. I encourage everyone to learn about their contributions,” the Prime Minister concluded.