PM Modi calls for strengthening ‘Vocal for Local’ during 139th Mann Ki Baat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens to choose indigenous products and strengthen the ‘Vocal for Local’ movement ahead of Diwali and Chhath, speaking during his 139th ‘Mann Ki Baat’ radio address on Sunday.

Marking 12 years of the monthly broadcast, which first aired on Vijayadashami in 2012, PM Modi described the programme as a personal "pilgrimage" that celebrates the hard work, courage, and dedication of ordinary citizens across the nation.

Pointing to the growing international footprint of Indian goods, PM Modi noted that local agricultural and artisanal items are finding new markets worldwide. Small-scale producers and rural artisans are seeing their craft reach global consumers through improved packaging and strategic export channels.

PM Modi also highlighted community-led initiatives transforming agriculture and environmental conservation. In Punjab's Malwa region, the 'Kheti Virasat Mission' is promoting organic farming and chemical-free cotton cultivation under the 'Nav-Trinjan' banner. The project grows naturally coloured cotton that requires no synthetic dyes, while an associated weaving school trains local women in traditional textile skills.

Rejuvenating the Heval river and expanding healthcare

Turning to water conservation, the Prime Minister praised residents and local administrators in Uttarakhand’s Tehri Garhwal district for reviving the Heval river. Through rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, and extensive tree planting, the community successfully restored the river and dozens of adjacent natural water sources that had previously begun to dry up.

Beyond economic and ecological progress, PM Modi underscored the steady growth of primary healthcare infrastructure, stating that nearly 1.9 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs are currently operating across India. The network brings essential diagnostic and medical facilities directly to local communities, drastically cutting down travel time for patients.

Looking ahead to national anniversaries, PM Modi paid tribute to freedom fighter Bhai Parmanand ahead of his 150th birth anniversary on November 4, acknowledging his historic role in the independence movement alongside the Arya Samaj and Ghadar Party. He also commended families choosing organ donation, citing the example of a family in Madhya Pradesh whose decision saved lives after a tragic road accident.