Mann Ki Baat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat on Akashvani, expressed concern over textile waste becoming a global challenge. He cited reports stating that less than one percent of textile waste is recycled into new clothes. India ranks third in the world in textile waste generation.
Mr. Modi noted that the increasing trend of discarding old clothes in favor of new ones is exacerbating the issue. However, he highlighted various Indian startups working towards textile recovery, sustainable fashion, and empowering ragpickers. The Prime Minister lauded initiatives where old clothes and footwear are recycled and distributed to the needy, with several items like decorative pieces, handbags, and toys being created from textile waste.
Cities Leading Textile Waste Management
PM Modi praised cities making strides in textile waste management, mentioning Panipat in Haryana as a global hub for textile recycling and Bengaluru as a leader in innovative tech solutions. He also highlighted Tirupur in Tamil Nadu, which is engaged in textile waste management through wastewater treatment and renewable energy.
Water Conservation Initiatives
Addressing the issue of water conservation, Mr. Modi said that with summer approaching, preparations for saving water have gained momentum. He mentioned that the Jal Shakti Ministry and various NGOs are actively constructing artificial ponds, check dams, borewell recharge structures, and soak pits. The Catch The Rain campaign has been launched again this year to promote water conservation. The Prime Minister shared success stories, including the revival of a dried-up lake in Gadag district, Karnataka, as an exemplary effort under this campaign.
Encouraging Constructive Summer Activities for Students
PM Modi advised students to utilize their summer vacations for learning new skills and hobbies. He emphasized opportunities available through tech camps, speech and drama courses, and volunteer activities. He urged schools and organizations to share their summer activity programs using the hashtag #MyHolidays.
He also introduced a special calendar under MY-Bharat, offering youth opportunities such as learning about Jan Aushadhi Kendras, participating in the Vibrant Village campaign, and spreading awareness about the Constitution through a padyatra on Ambedkar Jayanti.
Khelo India Para Games and Fit India Movement
PM Modi congratulated athletes who participated in the Khelo India Para Games, highlighting that a record 18 national records were set, including 12 by women athletes. He also praised arm wrestler Joby Mathew for his inspiring journey. Additionally, he spoke about the Fit India Carnival held in Delhi and encouraged people to organize similar events in their regions.
Promoting Indigenous Games and Cultural Heritage
The Prime Minister acknowledged the growing popularity of indigenous games and praised rapper Hanumankind for incorporating traditional martial arts like Kalaripayattu, Gatka, and Thang-Ta in his song Run It Up. He also appreciated efforts to preserve Indian culture worldwide, citing the Singapore Indian Fine Arts Society and Indian diaspora communities in Mauritius, Guyana, Fiji, and Trinidad and Tobago.
International Day of Yoga Countdown Begins
With less than 100 days remaining for the International Day of Yoga, PM Modi emphasized the global interest in yoga and traditional medicine. He mentioned the rising popularity of Ayurveda in Chile and Brazil, highlighting the efforts of the Somos India group in promoting it in Spanish-speaking countries. The theme for this year’s Yoga Day is ‘Yoga for One Earth, One Health’.
Promoting Local Initiatives and Festivals
PM Modi also highlighted innovative local initiatives, such as the production of Mahua flower-based cookies in Madhya Pradesh and Telangana. He encouraged listeners to share observations on unique plant journeys like the Krishna Kamal flowers around the Statue of Unity.
He extended greetings on Chaitra Navratri and the Indian New Year and acknowledged regional festivals such as Ugadi in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra, Rongali Bihu in Assam, Poila Boishakh in Bengal, and Navreh in Kashmir. He emphasized how these celebrations reflect India\’s unity in diversity.
PM Modi concluded by encouraging citizens to participate in preserving India\’s rich heritage, sustainable initiatives, and fitness campaigns.
