NEW DELHI: Seeking to reach out to more people, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today addressed the countrymen over radio for the first time, giving a pep talk about how to shed despondency and use their skills for betterment and prosperity of the country.
He advocated the need for use of khadi products as a homage to Mahatma Gandhi and impressed upon the people to generate confidence among themselves, including the specially-abled children.
Promising to make the radio broadcast a regular affair, Modi invited ideas from the citizens while noting that he had been receiving a number of suggestions since it was announced that he would be addressing the nation over radio.
In his 15-minute address, he sought to motivate people to recognize their capabilities and use them.
“You know, our scientists have undertaken the Mars mission successfully at minimum expenses. There is nothing lacking in our capabilities. We only have forgotten our strengths. We have forgotten ourselves as if we have become despondent. My brothers and sisters, this cannot be,” he said.
“We need to recognize our internal strengths,” the Prime Minister said while narrating a short story of Swami Vivekananda about how a lion brought up by sheep rediscovered his prowess after coming in touch with another lion.
“If we move ahead with self-respect and right identity, we will emerge victorious,” he said.
He also referred to Mahatma Gandhi, whose birth anniversary was celebrated yesterday, and impressed upon people to use at least one khadi product, may it be a handkerchief or even a bedsheet.
It will benefit the poor, he said. . “If you have ideas and actual incidents which are constructive, do share with me. Together let us serve India and take our Nation to newer heights,” Modi said.
Referring to the specially-abled children, he said they should be a part of the development journey as the nation belongs to everyone.
“They are the responsibility of not only their families but the entire society,” he said.
Appreciating the suggestion for special programs for the specially-abled children, Modi recalled his days as Gujarat Chief Minister and said “we began Khel Mahakumbh for specially-abled athletes and I myself would go and see the sports.”
He also said he would consider the suggestion for making it easier for registration of small scale industries.
Modi referred to the ‘swachh bharat’ campaign launched yesterday by him and noted that he had invited participation of nine people, each of whom should rope in nine more, who will involve nine more and so on, to create a chain.
“Let us pledge to affirm to remove dirt. Yesterday we began the Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan & I want you all to join this Abhiyaan,” he said. -PTI
Thank You For Your Vote!
Sorry You have Already Voted!
