Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday delivered his 'Mann ki Baat' speech, marking 12 years of the initiative. He pitched the 'Vocal for Local' initiative ahead of the upcoming Diwali festival, saying Indians have started giving significance to indigenous goods during festivals.
He highlighted that the initiative has served as an opportunity to celebrate the hard work, courage, commitment, dedication and spirit of service of the common man of our country.
Addressing the 139th Episode of Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi said, "12 years ago, on the auspicious occasion of Vijayadashami, we began 'Mann Ki Baat'. Since then, our journey has continued uninterrupted. All of you have been both fellow travellers and guides on this journey. For me, 'Mann Ki Baat' has been a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the hard work, courage, commitment, dedication and spirit of service of the common man of our country."
Highlighting India's centuries-old tradition of pilgrimages, he said 'Mann Ki Baat' is not less than a pilgrimage, it is a journey to closely understand the efforts of people of the country and to pay tribute to their contributions.