Mann ki Baat: A fit nation is a hit nation, says PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday addressed the nation through ‘Mann Ki Baat’, a monthly radio programme.

In the 62nd edition of the programme, emphasising the importance of fitness, PM said a nation that is fit, will always be a nation that is hit. “I make a special appeal to all of you to visit the place of your choice, pick up the activity of your interest and ensure integration of your life with adventure,” he said.

Talking about his visit to Delhi’s Hunar Haat, the PM talked about the diversity of the country which was showcased in the event. He also shared his experience of speaking to a

divyang (physically challenged) woman at Hunar Haat. “She told me her life has changed after she connected with Hunar Haat. The event has given employment opportunities to around 3 lakh artisans.”

In his radio address, the PM also shared story of Salman who lives in Hamirpur village of Moradabad. Salman, a

divyang by birth and cannot stand on his feet, started manufacturing slippers and detergents in his village. In no time, 30 divyang people joined him whom he trained.

“Today, all of them together manufacture 150 pairs of slippers a day. Not just that, this year Salman has resolved to provide employment to 100 more such divyang mates. I salute their courage and their enterprise,” said PM.

‘Ajrak print’ brand

He also shared another inspiring example of Ismail Khatri. In 2001, after the earthquake, most villagers of Ajrak in Gujarat’s Kutch were migrating. Khatri decided to stay back, nurture his traditional art form and now he has turned ‘Ajrak print’ into a major brand.

Meanwhile, as India will chair the Conference of Parties (COP) convention on migratory species, the PM asked the citizens to send in their suggestions on lending more substance to this opportunity and making it more useful. On youths’ increasing interest in science and technology, PM Modi said, “When I was in Bengaluru during Chandrayan-2, I witnessed immense enthusiasm and fervour on the part of children present there. There was no sign of drowsiness from my angle.”

To give a fillip to this enthusiasm in children and young people, ISRO has launched a facility to sit, watch rocket launching at Sriharikota. Now, online booking is also possible through a link available on ISRO’s website.

AN32 aircraft

Modi also talked about Indian Air Force AN32 aircraft which took of from Leh’s Kushok Bakula Rimpoche Airport on January 31. A mixture of 10 per cent of Indian bio-jet fuel was used in the aircraft flight. This was the first time that this mix was used in both the engines.

He also talked about 12-year-old Kamya Karthikeyan who conquered Mount Aconcagua. “She is now on a new mission. Under “Mission Saahas” she is trying to conquer highest peaks of all continents, also be skiing on North, South poles. I wish Kamya all the best for ‘Mission Saahas’,” said PM.