Riding the Airwaves: Modi's First Radio Message
Riding the Airwaves: Modi's First Radio Message
PM Narendra Modi completed his first radio address with the aim of reaching out to Indians who lack access to television. The PM promised to make this a regular feature. This is a good initiative considering that many parts of India have not developed to the point where there is a television at home or office. Chief among his messages were the appeals to people to realise and tap their potential. The PM also spoke of the virtues of cleanliness and mentioned the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. He also stressed the need for society to help those who were specially abled and asked them to use khadi more.
Modi's Mann Ki Baat, as the radio message was titled, captured the hearts of the people because the PM was mindful of what ails India. The PM also promised tat he will try to speak to the people once or twice a month on Sundays every time. The PM also spoke of the emails and letters he has received from the people and he promised he would include the ideas shared by them.
The PM also spoke of the phenomenal success of Mangalyaan, saying that
“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.”
The PM spoke of the need for recognising inner strengths. He quoted a story from the works of Swami Vivekananda where the lion raised by sheep one day “If we move ahead with self-respect and right identity, we will emerge victorious,” he said. The PM also asked the people to use at least one khadi article in a day in their household as this will benefit the poor. This includes bedspreads and handkerchiefs which are items of every day use. The PM also said he had received emails that skill development should commence from grade 5.
He also mentioned that he received a suggestion that urban local bodies should commence with special programmes for specially abled children to motivate them. Citizens also shared that there should be a ban on polythene and more dustbins to protect the environment and ensure that people maintain clean surroundings.
The PM also spoke of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan or Clean India Campaign. He also said “Till we don’t decide to get up and walk, we won't find guides to show us the way.” He reiterated that India belonged to the people as much as it did to the government. His address has been recorded by AIR and it was also telecast on Doordarshan which aired an audio feed plus visuals of the radio address.
A former PM and leader of the nation, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru first used the radio to reach out to people in the nation. Now, with PM Modi, this tradition continues. Hopefully, the useful sound-bytes from the PM will especially motivate the listeners and help people and the government to serve the nation better.
