Operation Sindoor face of changing India: PM Modi in Mann Ki Baat – Key highlights | India News

Prime Minister Narendra Modi (File photo)

In the 122nd episode of Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modiopened 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,” he said. The Prime Minister described how the nation came alive with patriotism after the operation — with Tiranga Yatras organised across cities, villages, and towns. “Thousands of people came out holding the tricolour to honour the armed forces. In many cities, large groups of youth volunteered to become civil defence members. Videos from Chandigarh went viral. Children created paintings filled with messages of patriotism.”“Many families have made Operation Sindoor a part of their lives. In Katihar in Bihar, Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh, and several other places, children born during that time have been named ‘Sindoor’,” the Prime Minister said. 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 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 told me, ‘We will now buy toys only made in India for our children. Patriotism will start from childhood.’ 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.’”Growth of Asiatic Lions in Gir Among other things, the Prime Minister shared encouraging news about wildlife conservation. “In just five years, the lion population in Gir, Gujarat increased from 674 to 891. The Lion Census was a tough exercise, covering 11 districts and 35,000 square kilometres. Teams worked 24 hours, verifying and cross-verifying numbers.”Maoism and development in GadchiroliPM spoke about progress in Maoist-affected areas. “Due to the collective fight against Maoism, basic facilities have started reaching these areas. For example, in Katejhari village of Gadchiroli, Maharashtra, a bus reached for the first time. People there had waited for this day for years. They welcomed the bus with dhol and nagara.”Khelo India in BiharPM Modi also highlighted Bihar’s growing importance in India’s sporting map. “Recently, five cities in Bihar hosted the Khelo India Games. Over 5,000 athletes from all over the country participated,” he said. “Matches were held in different categories, and Bihar’s sporting spirit was praised by everyone who attended.”Calling Bihar a “very special land”, he noted that the games were historic in more ways than one. “A total of 26 records were made this time. The warmth and hospitality shown by the people of Bihar stood out. The event was more than a competition — it was a celebration.”Women empowerment through technology Highlighting women’s role in agriculture, PM Modi said, “In Sangareddy district of Telangana, women are flying drones to spray pesticides on 50 acres of land. Earlier, they depended on others for this work. Now they are ‘sky warriors,’ not just drone operators. The villagers have accepted this change wholeheartedly.”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 JoshiThe 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.