Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday addressed the nation through his monthly radio programme “Mann Ki Baat’. Today’s address was the 84th edition and the last episode
of the year 2021. As the 2021-end nears, #MannKiBaat is trending on Twitter.
Here’s what PM Modi said in his year’s last address to India
--Addressing the nation in his 84th edition of Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi lauded India for standing together as a family during the Covid-19 pandemic.
--Alerting people about the Omicron, PM said "a new covid variant has knocked our doors. Our efforts as citizens of the country are vital in the fight against the global pandemic."
--"For me, Mann Ki Baat is not about showcasing government's work, which could have been easily done. Instead, it is about collective efforts by grassroots level change-makers,"
said PM Modi.
--"India's vaccination rates have skyrocketed, reflecting our scientists' revolutionary zeal as well as our people's trust," said Mr Modi.
--"As the new Covid-19 variant Omicron is making its way into India, we must be more cautious and adhere to Covid-19-appropriate behaviour at all times. As we enter the new year, we
must commit to doubling down on our efforts to combat Coronavirus "PM Modi said.
--PM Modi also paid tribute to CDS Bipin Rawat and 12 others, who were killed in an IAF chopper crash near Coonoor, Tamil Nadu.
--In his 'Mann Ki Baat' address, PM Modi also mentioned Group Captain Varun Singh and said that a letter written by him "drew his attention and touched his heart."
“Group Captain Varun Singh fought until his last breath. He was felicitated with Shaurya Chakra in August 2021. He had also written a letter to his school principal & did not forget
his roots & learnings. In his letter, he had highlighted his failures & mediocrity and said that "it’s ok to be mediocre."
--"Group Captain Varun Singh had written that even if he could inspire just one student, that would be a huge feat. But today I'd like to say that he has inspired the entire country.
His letter may speak to students, but it has a message for our entire society," he added.
--Speaking about increased screen time for adults as well as students, PM Modi urged people to read more books.
"In an era where screen time is increasing, let us also make reading books popular. I urge you all to share which books you read this year. This way you will help others make their
reading list for 2022" he was quoted saying.
--"People from various countries are curious about Indian culture. Not only they are interested in learning, but are also helping to promote it," said Mr Modi.
--PM Modi praised the startup 'SAAF-Water' for assisting people in mapping and identifying safe drinking water sources.
'SAAF-Water' is a startup that uses Artificial Intelligence and IoT which is enabling people to drink clean water with the help of technology," he explained.
--"Like every year, Pariksha Pe Charcha will be held early next year," said Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
--"The next Mann Ki Baat will take place in 2022. Let us continue to innovate and try new ideas while keeping our nation's progress and the empowerment of our fellow Indians in
mind," PM Modi concluded.