Operation Sindoor face of changing India: PM Modi in Mann Ki Baat - Key highlights

In the 122nd episode of Mann Ki Baat , Prime Minister Narendra Modi opened with a strong message on Operation Sindoor. He said, “The entire country is united against terrorism, everybody wants to finish it. Our forces destroyed the terror camps across the border with precision. Operation Sindoor showcases changing India. Everybody is filled with patriotic feelings. ”

He highlighted how the operation was more than a military action. "Operation Sindoor is not just a military mission; it is a picture of our resolve, courage and a transforming India and this picture has infused the whole country with a sense of patriotism and has painted it in the hues of the tricolour,"he said.

The Prime Minister described how the nation came alive with patriotism after the operation — with Tiranga Yatras. "In many cities, villages and small towns of the country, Tiranga Yatras were organised. Thousands of people came out holding the tricolour, to pay their respects & honour to the country's armed forces," he said.

"Operation Sindoor has influenced the people of the country so much that many families have made it a part of their lives. In Katihar in Bihar, Kushinagar in UP, and many other cities, children born during that period have been names 'Sindoor'," the Prime Minister added.

PM Modi praised the courage and skill of the soldiers and the use of homegrown technology, "Our soldiers destroyed terror bases; it was their indomitable courage, along with the power of weapons, equipment and technology made in India."

Following Operation Sindoor, a renewed push for ‘Vocal for Local’ has inspired many, the Prime Minister said. "A parent remarked, "We will now buy toys only made in India for our children. Patriotism will start from childhood," he said.

"Some families have pledged to spend their next holiday in India. Many youngsters have pledged to marry in India. Someone said, ‘Every gift we give will be made by an Indian artisan'," PM added.

Growth of Asiatic Lions in Gir

Among other things, the Prime Minister shared encouraging news about wildlife conservation. “In just the last five years, the population of lions in Gir, Gujarat, has increased from 674 to 891. The number of lions that emerged after the lion census is very encouraging."

Maoism and development in Gadchiroli

PM spoke about progress in Maoist-affected areas. “People of Katejhari village of the Gadchiroli district in Maharashtra had been waiting for this day for years. A bus could never run here before. Why? It’s because this village was affected by Maoist violence. And when the bus reached the village for the first time, people welcomed it by playing the Dhol-Nagara," PM Modi said.

Khelo India in Bihar

PM Modi also highlighted Bihar’s growing importance in India’s sporting map. Calling Bihar "special", the Prime minister said, "Five cities of Bihar hosted Khelo India games, participants hailed the hospitality there."

Women empowerment through technology

Highlighting women’s role in agriculture, PM Modi said, “ In Sangareddy district of Telangana, women who had to depend on others till some time ago are completing the work of spraying pesticides on 50 acres of land with the help of drone s. The villagers have also accepted this change wholeheartedly. Now these women are not known as 'drone operators' but as 'sky warriors'."

Crafted fibres and North East strength

The Prime Minister talked about the ‘Rising North East Summit’ and the ‘Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav’ celebrating the North East’s talent. He shared the story of Dr Chewang Norbu Bhutia, a veterinary doctor from Sikkim who started ‘Crafted Fibres’. “He gave a new dimension to weaving, providing skill training to locals and helping them become self-reliant.”

Gujarat’s forest officers

PM Modi noted, “Gujarat became the first state where women were appointed as forest officers on a large scale. This has helped protect wildlife. We need to remain alert and vigilant for wildlife protection.”

Inspiring story of Jeevan Joshi

The Prime Minister also spoke of 65-year-old Jeevan Joshi from Haldwani, Uttarakhand. “Polio took away the strength of the legs, but not his courage. Joshi created a unique art form called ‘Baget’, making beautiful pieces from pine tree bark that others consider useless. The art captures the soul of the hills,” PM said.