Mann Ki Baat: PM Modi calls for collective action towards self-reliance and digital safety - Key takeaways

In the latest episode of Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged listeners with powerful insights and pressing calls to action, emphasizing self-reliance, digital safety , and cultural pride.

As India approaches the festive season, PM Modi urged citizens to embrace the Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign, highlighting the success of indigenous technological advancements, such as the recently inaugurated MACE Observatory in Ladakh. He also warned against the rising threat of digital fraud, specifically the alarming trend of "digital arrest," urging vigilance among citizens.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister celebrated India's burgeoning animation and gaming industries, stressing the need to transform the nation into a global powerhouse in these sectors. From sharing heartwarming stories of cultural performances abroad to encouraging local artisans and businesses, PM Modi's address resonated with a spirit of collective progress and cultural pride.

This month’s episode was a reminder of India's capabilities and the critical role each citizen plays in the nation’s journey toward self-sufficiency and global leadership.

Below are the top ten highlights from this significant broadcast-

'Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign becoming a mass movement'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the growth of the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' campaign, urging citizens to strengthen it during the festive season. He said, "Self-reliance has not only become our policy, it has become our passion." He urged citizens to strengthen the Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign this festive season, showcasing India's advancements in technology and science.

PM Modi highlighted India's advancements in technology, mentioning the newly inaugurated Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) Observatory in Ladakh as a testament to the country's self-reliance in scientific endeavors.

Emphasis on 'Vocal for Local'

PM Modi called for a renewed commitment to the 'Vocal for Local' mantra this Diwali, urging people to support local artisans and businesses. He stated, "In this festive season, let us all strengthen this campaign of Aatmanirbhar Bharat," stressing the importance of promoting Indian products globally.

Promoting local crafts for Diwali

Highlighting the efforts of local potters in Jammu and Kashmir, PM Modi shared their preparation for Diwali by crafting eco-friendly earthen lamps. A potter named Ram Saroop mentioned, "We have received an order to make 20,000 lamps," underscoring the positive impact of festive demand on local artisans.

Digital safety awareness

The Prime Minister addressed the alarming issue of "digital arrest," a form of fraud, and stressed the need for citizens to remain vigilant. He explained, "There is no system like digital arrest in the law; this is just fraud." The Prime Minister outlined the modus operandi of these scams and urged citizens to follow the three steps for digital security: Stop, Think, and Take Action.

He provided actionable steps to ensure digital security and urged awareness campaigns to combat cybercrime, "Beware of digital arrest frauds."

Call to action against cyber fraud

PM Modi announced the establishment of the National Cyber Coordination Centre to combat cybercrime. He emphasized the government's commitment to protecting citizens, stating, "Agencies are doing their job, but for protection from scams, it is very important that everyone is aware."

Collective efforts against cyber crime

PM Modi urged schools and colleges to involve students in the fight against cyber scams, emphasizing the role of community awareness in safeguarding digital security. "We can fight this challenge only with the collective efforts in society," he said.

Animation industry growth

PM Modi called for a concerted effort to make India a global animation powerhouse. He noted, "Like Chhota Bheem, our other animated series...have fans all over the world," showcasing the international appeal of Indian animated content. He highlighted the collaboration of Indian animation studios with major global companies like Disney.

He highlighted India's potential in the animation and gaming sectors, expressing optimism about the country's creative talent and its contributions to global productions. "We must resolve to make India a global animation powerhouse," the PM said.

Advancements in science and technology

The Prime Minister celebrated the inauguration of Asia's largest imaging telescope, MACE, located at an altitude of 4,300 meters in Ladakh. "The Hanley telescope may be looking at a distant world, but it is also showing us the power of self-reliant India," PM Modi noted, highlighting the collaborative efforts of Indian scientists and local industry in its construction.

Cultural pride in Laos

Sharing an experience from his visit to Laos, PM Modi expressed admiration for local artists performing the Lao version of the Ramayana, highlighting the shared cultural connections. He said, "There was the same devotion in their eyes, the same dedication in their voices."

Support for local potters

PM Modi commended potters in Jammu and Kashmir who are crafting eco-friendly earthen lamps for Diwali, emphasizing the importance of traditional crafts and local employment.

Unity in celebrating cultural heritage

PM Modi concluded with a call for collective efforts in preserving and celebrating India's rich cultural heritage, urging citizens to participate actively in initiatives that promote local crafts and traditions during festive seasons. He reaffirmed, "We not only have to make India self-reliant but also establish our country as a global powerhouse of innovation."