New Delhi, Oct 25: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday, urged citizens to prioritise products made by local artisans during festive shopping, saying consumer support would strengthen the "Vocal for Local" campaign and accelerate India’s journey towards self-reliance.
Addressing the 139th edition of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat, Modi highlighted how Indian products are finding markets overseas, citing makhana from Bihar reaching Greece and arhar dal from Karnataka being exported to the Maldives.
“Therefore, I personally urge you to give priority and prominence to products crafted by local artisans,” Modi said, adding that purchases made during the festive season could boost artisans’ confidence and encourage their work.
Modi also emphasised the importance of attractive packaging in helping locally made products reach consumers. “Understanding this, greater emphasis is now being laid on packaging,” he said.
The Prime Minister also highlighted efforts to preserve traditional skills and revive sustainable practices across the country.
Referring to Punjab’s Malwa region, he spoke about the work of Kheti Virasat Mission, an organisation promoting organic farming and natural cotton cultivation through an initiative called "Nav-Trinjan".
He said the initiative had also established a weaving school to pass traditional weaving skills on to younger generations, helping preserve an important part of the region’s cultural heritage.
Modi also cited community-led efforts to revive the Heval river in Uttarakhand’s Tehri Garhwal district.
He said declining water levels in the river and the drying up of nearby natural water sources had prompted the local administration and villagers to take action.
The efforts included rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge and extensive tree plantation. According to Modi, these measures have helped restore the river and rejuvenate dozens of natural water sources.
Highlighting the role of technology in healthcare, the prime minister said the government’s e-Sanjeevani telemedicine service had facilitated nearly 50 crore consultations.
He described the figure as an example of the reach of technology, the commitment of doctors and the trust of citizens.
The service, he said, is helping people access medical consultations even in the country’s remotest areas.
Modi also reflected on the 12-year journey of Mann Ki Baat, describing the programme as a “pilgrimage” that had allowed him to understand the efforts of citizens and recognise their contributions.
Recalling that the broadcast began on Vijayadashami 12 years ago, he said the programme had continued uninterrupted, with listeners serving as both fellow travellers and guides.
He further added that Mann Ki Baat has been an opportunity to celebrate the hard work, courage, dedication and spirit of service of ordinary Indians, describing the programme as a way of paying tribute to the collective strength of the nation.
PTI