Narendra Modi Urges Support for Local Artisans in Mann Ki Baat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi used the 139th episode of his monthly radio program, Mann Ki Baat, to promote the Vocal for Local campaign and the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat. Speaking ahead of the Diwali and Chhath festivals, Modi asserted that the initiative is successfully expanding international markets for Indian farmers and rural artisans.

Modi cited specific examples of global reach, noting that makhana from Purnia, Bihar, is now reaching Greece and arhar dal from Kalaburagi, Karnataka, has entered the Maldives. He highlighted the importance of packaging, mentioning that Shabri Naturals, a tribal community initiative in Maharashtra, received Japan's Good Design Award for its honey, mahua, chir, and bamboo products. Additionally, he reported that Khadi Gram Udyog sales exceeded Rs 28 crore in a single day on Gandhi Jayanti, an increase of Rs 1.5 crore over the previous year.

Beyond trade, the Prime Minister praised regional development and sustainability efforts. He highlighted the Kheti Virasat Mission for promoting organic and naturally colored cotton farming through the Nav-Trinjan initiative in Punjab's Malwa region. He also cited a collaboration between the local administration and villagers in Uttarakhand's Tehri Garhwal district to revive the Heval river using reforestation and rainwater harvesting.