Why 123rd Episode Of Mann Ki Baat Is Special
The 123rd episode of Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's monthly radio program, was broadcast on June 29, 2025, across various platforms. As a key initiative to connect directly with Indian citizens, this apolitical program addresses diverse issues of national importance, celebrates collective achievements, and promotes public participation in governance. The episode covered several themes, including India's health achievements, reflections on the Emergency period, the significance of religious pilgrimages, youth empowerment, and social initiatives. Mann Ki Baat is broadcast in multiple languages, reaching an estimated 90 per cent of India's population, particularly in rural and remote areas, through radio and television. The 123rd episode continued this tradition, blending inspirational stories, policy updates, and calls for public involvement.
The 123rd episode was notable for its diverse topics, reflecting Modi's focus on unity, progress and cultural heritage. A significant highlight was the announcement that the World Health Organization (WHO) declared India free of trachoma, a bacterial eye infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis that can lead to preventable blindness. Modi emphasised this as a major public health achievement, particularly for underserved communities with limited access to clean water and sanitation. He noted that this milestone reflects India's commitment to improving healthcare access and infrastructure. Additionally, Modi highlighted that over 95 crore Indians now benefit from social security schemes, a significant increase from less than 25 crore in 2015. He cited the International Labour Organisation (ILO), stating that over 64% of India's population is covered by some form of social protection, showcasing progress in social welfare.
In the 123rd episode Modi also addressed the dark period of the Emergency (1975–1977), describing it as a time when democracy was 'murdered" and the judiciary was pressured to act as a 'puppet" under the draconian Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA). Quoting Morarji Desai, Modi underscored the resilience of India's democratic spirit, stating that those who imposed the Emergency ultimately lost. This reflection served as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding constitutional values and democratic institutions.
The mention of the Emergency was a significant moment, as it connected historical lessons to contemporary governance, urging citizens to value democratic freedoms. PM Modi's remarks also highlighted the judiciary's role in upholding justice and reinforcing trust in India's institutional framework. A central theme of the 123rd episode was the spiritual significance of religious yatras (pilgrimages). Modi extended heartfelt wishes to devotees embarking on journeys like the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which had recently resumed, and the Amarnath Yatra, beginning on July 3, 2025. He described pilgrimages as a means of 'disciplining the body, purifying the heart, fostering mutual love and brotherhood, and connecting with God." The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, revered by Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists, was highlighted as a symbol of India's cultural unity. Modi also referenced the recently concluded Jagannath Rath Yatra, noting that such pilgrimages reflect the ethos of ' Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat" (One India, Supreme India).
PM Modi praised the selfless contributions of individuals and organisations ensuring the safety and success of these yatras, emphasising the spirit of service (seva). He noted that the emotional pull of pilgrimages – 'the call has come" – captures their spiritual essence, inspiring millions to participate. This segment resonated deeply with listeners, reinforcing India's rich spiritual heritage and collective goodwill. The PM also highlighted stories of youth empowerment, particularly in regions previously marked by conflict. He spoke of Bodoland, where the identity of struggle has transformed into one of aspiration. Young people in Bodoland, once limited by opportunities, now pursue dreams with courage and self-reliance, particularly in sports like football. Modi praised football players from the region, noting their contributions to India's sporting landscape.
This focus on youth underscores the Modi government's efforts to create opportunities in education, sports, and entrepreneurship, especially in areas affected by insurgency or underdevelopment. Modi's narrative of transformation through self-reliance aligns with broader initiatives like Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India).
The 123rd episode of Mann Ki Baat also highlighted the global reverence of Lord Buddha's teachings, noting an instance where Vietnam requested a 12-day extension for an Indian cultural event due to overwhelming public response. PM Modi emphasised that Buddha's thoughts continue to inspire peace and unity worldwide, showcasing India's soft power and cultural diplomacy, reinforcing India's role as a global cultural leader.
The 123rd episode was also shaped by interesting public inputs. For instance, Vijaya Kumar Moka, an artist from Visakhapatnam, shared his story of creating over 350 millet paintings to promote India's millet culture, hoping for national recognition through Mann Ki Baat. Another citizen proposed an organization to employ unemployed individuals in nature conservation efforts, aligning with Modi's focus on sustainability. These inputs reflect the program's participatory nature, where citizens' voices shape the narrative. Modi's acknowledgment of such stories fosters a sense of inclusion and motivates grassroots innovation. The 123rd episode of Mann Ki Baat continued the program's tradition of addressing diverse themes while celebrating India's collective achievements. With over 23 crore regular listeners and more than a billion having tuned in at least once since Mann Ki Baat started on October 3, 2014, the program's reach is unparalleled. Its apolitical nature ensures it remains a platform for dialogue rather than political rhetoric.
The trachoma-free announcement highlighted India's progress in public health, complementing campaigns like Swachh Bharat and Ayushman Bharat. The expansion of social security to 95 crore people reflects a decade of inclusive growth, addressing disparities that once limited access to welfare. These achievements resonate with listeners as tangible outcomes of governance. The 1975 Emergency related discussion served as a historical reminder, reinforcing the value of democracy and judicial independence. By invoking Morarji Desai, Modi connected past struggles to present resilience, appealing to citizens' sense of national pride and vigilance.
The emphasis on pilgrimages underscored India's cultural diversity and unity. By highlighting yatras revered across religious traditions, Modi reinforced the idea of a shared national identity. The focus on service during these pilgrimages aligns with his call for collective responsibility. The Bodoland narrative showcased the transformative power of opportunity in conflict-affected areas. By spotlighting sports and self-reliance, Modi inspired young listeners to pursue their dreams while acknowledging government efforts in fostering development.
The mention of Buddha's legacy and Vietnam's response highlighted India's growing cultural influence. Mann Ki Baat, undoubtedly, serves as a platform to project this soft power, strengthening India's global image. The program's interactive nature was evident in the diverse suggestions received. From millet art to environmental initiatives, citizens' inputs reflect the program's role in amplifying grassroots stories.
The 123rd episode of Mann Ki Baat was a microcosm of Modi's vision for India–a nation rooted in its cultural heritage, advancing in health and welfare, and empowering its youth while learning from its past. By addressing trachoma elimination, the Emergency, pilgrimages, youth aspirations, and global cultural influence, PM Modi wove a highly effective narrative of progress and unity. The program's participatory model, amplified by platforms like MyGov, ensures it remains an engagingly stirring dialogue with the people, not a monologue. As India approaches its 75th year of the Constitution in 2025, in a few months from now, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's resoundingly successful Mann Ki Baat continues to be a vital tool for fostering national pride and collective action.
Sanju Verma is an Economist, National Spokesperson for BJP and Bestselling Author of 'The Modi Gambit". Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18's views.
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July 03, 2025, 12:03 IST
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