Zillar Barta Desk,New Delhi : Chief Ministers across several states on Sunday tuned in to the 139th episode of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s monthly radio programme, ‘Mann Ki Baat’, which highlighted grassroots initiatives, indigenous products, sustainable agriculture, healthcare and the contributions of ordinary citizens to nation-building.
The latest episode saw participation from several state leaders, including Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha. The leaders listened to the broadcast at different locations alongside local residents, public representatives and party workers.
During the 139th episode, Prime Minister Modi emphasised the growing importance of indigenous products and the role of local artisans, farmers and small businesses in strengthening India’s economy.
Referring to the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative, the Prime Minister encouraged citizens to prioritise locally manufactured goods and products made by Indian artisans, particularly during the festive season ahead of Diwali and Chhath Puja.
He cited examples of Indian agricultural products reaching international markets, including makhana from Bihar’s Purnia region reaching Greece and pulses from Karnataka’s Kalaburagi finding markets in the Maldives. The examples highlighted the growing opportunities for Indian producers and rural enterprises.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi listened to the programme at the BJP state headquarters in Bhubaneswar. He highlighted the importance of supporting local artisans, encouraging natural farming and protecting the environment, linking these efforts to the vision of a developed India and a prosperous Odisha.
In Haryana, Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini listened to the broadcast with residents at a community centre in Panchkula. He highlighted the programme’s focus on sustainable agriculture, traditional industries, digital healthcare and organ donation.
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, accompanied by former Union Minister Smriti Irani, participated in a collective listening event in Abhanpur in Raipur district. Meanwhile, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha joined members of the public and party workers in the Town Bardowali Assembly constituency to listen to the Prime Minister’s address.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta listened to the 139th episode with local residents at the Municipal Councillor’s Office in Khera Kalan village in Outer Delhi.
Following the broadcast, Gupta said ‘Mann Ki Baat’ provides a platform to highlight the achievements of ordinary citizens, social organisations and communities working towards positive change. She noted that stories shared through the programme can encourage others to participate in social welfare initiatives and contribute to the country’s development.
Launched in October 2014, ‘Mann Ki Baat’ has become a regular monthly radio address through which the Prime Minister discusses social initiatives, community achievements, science, culture, environmental conservation and national development.
The 139th episode also reflected on the programme’s 12-year journey. Modi acknowledged the contributions of citizens whose work often goes unnoticed and described the broadcast as an opportunity to recognise their dedication, courage and spirit of service.
The participation of Chief Ministers and members of the public across different states underscored the programme’s continued reach. Its latest episode placed particular emphasis on supporting local enterprises, promoting sustainable practices and encouraging citizens to contribute to community development.
As India approaches the festive season, the Prime Minister’s message urged people to support indigenous products and recognise the efforts of local producers, artisans and farmers.
