Mann Ki Baat: PM Modi Discusses 10th Anniversary of Surgical Strikes, Census and Anti-Drug Campaign

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation in the 138th episode of his monthly radio program 'Mann Ki Baat'. During the address, he spoke on a variety of subjects, including India's decisive response to terrorism, the national census, cultural heritage, and social reforms.

Referring to the 10th anniversary of the 'Surgical Strike' conducted by the Indian Army on terror camps in Pakistan on September 28-29, 2016, the Prime Minister described it as a new example of India's counter-terrorism policy. He clarified that from the Balakot air strikes to 'Operation Sindhur', India has sent a clear message that terrorism will be met with a fitting response. Recalling the serial blasts in Delhi on September 13, 2008, and the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai, he stated that today's India is adopting a policy of 'zero tolerance' toward terrorism. Additionally, he expressed condolences to the families of the victims on the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks in the United States.

Discussing the national census, the Prime Minister mentioned that the first phase is nearly complete, with information from over 320 million families already recorded. He appealed to citizens to enter their own details through the se.census.gov.in portal, noting that more than 26 million people have already completed self-enumeration.

Regarding cultural contributions, the Prime Minister paid tribute to the late Ashok Singhal, former International Executive President of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, on his 100th birth anniversary, recalling his role in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. He also mentioned the history of the Modhera Sun Temple in Gujarat and its current achievement of becoming the country's first 'Solar Village'.

In the context of environment and wildlife conservation, the Prime Minister praised the return of elephants to the Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam and the conservation program for the 'Pygmy Hog', which has increased their number to over 190. He also commended the efforts of women in the Sundarbans in developing mangrove forests.

For the youth, the Prime Minister emphasized the 'Nasha Mukt Yuva Abhiyan' (Drug-Free Youth Campaign), which will run for 100 weeks. This initiative involves volunteers from MY Bharat and youth from the NSS. To discover sporting talent, he mentioned the 'Talent Hunt' campaign launched from the Red Fort and praised the efforts of Rajinder Singh from Punjab, who is honing rural talent through the Round Glass Hockey Academy.

On the subject of economic empowerment, he cited the example of Amla processing units under the 'One District One Product' (ODOP) scheme in Pratapgarh, Uttar Pradesh, and the resulting increase in income for women through self-help groups. Additionally, on the occasion of September's 'Poshan Maah' (Nutrition Month), he discussed initiatives such as 'Har Ghar Munga' in Chhattisgarh and 'Vangi Spardha' in Gujarat. Finally, he mentioned the Ganesh Himal Museum established by Mr. Panthoun Theerkanon of Thailand, highlighting how Indian faith and culture are becoming popular on a global level.