''Mann ki Baat'': PM Modi speaks against tobacco use, e-cigarettes

The PM urged people to launch a campaign to honour daughters who have made a mark with their achievements in various fields for public good.

He also called for sharing of Diwali gifts and sweets to bring happiness to those who cannot afford it.

The prime minister said on Diwali, goddess Lakshmi is welcomed in homes as it is believed that she brings prosperity and happiness.

“Daughters are considered as Lakshmi in our culture ... can’t we felicitate daughters in our villages and cities by holding public programmes,” he suggested in his monthly ‘Mann ki Baat’ radio address.

He said there are several women in society who are making a mark by their talent.

“There are several daughters, daughters-in-law who are doing exceptional work ... some are teaching poor children, some are spreading awareness about health and sanitation. Many are serving as doctors, engineers ... as lawyers they are helping in delivery of justice. The society can identify such daughters and honour them across India,” he said.

Modi, who is known for extensively using social media to connect with the people, said their work can be highlighted on social media platforms using the hashtag “BharatKiLakshmi”.

Modi recalled the success of the “selfie with daughter” campaign to drive home his point.

“Encouraging Bharat ki Lakshmi means strengthening the path to success of the country and its people,” the prime minister said.

Referring to the festival season, the prime minister also reminded listeners about the rich-poor divide and said there should be an “out delivery” of gifts and sweets.

“On the one hand, when we experience ‘delivery in’ of sweetmeats, apparel, gifts and so on, let us think for a moment on the process of ‘delivery out’. At least in our homes, items that are in excess and are not required anymore, could be allocated for ‘delivery out’,” he said referring to the joy of sharing.

He said in festivities, homes are filled with joy. But there are many people around who remain deprived of celebrations, he said.

“ ... And this is what is termed as ‘chirag tale andhera’ (darkness under a lamp). Perhaps this adage is not just a set of words, it is an order, a philosophical thought, or an inspiration,” he said.

There are some homes bathed in shimmering lights but on the other hand, there are some homes mired in darkness. “There are homes where sweetmeats are left to rot; there are homes where children yearn for a sweet,” the prime minister said urging people to share the joy.

He suggested contacting NGOs and startups which distribute clothes and food to the “underprivileged”.

The nonagenarian asked Modi to bless her, but he said the singer was elder to him in age and work and she should bless him instead.

"People get old with age. But it's always good to get blessings from those who become big through their great work," Mangeshkar replied.

"Your arrival had changed India's image and it makes me very happy," she added.

Modi said the conversation between him and the singer "was like a younger brother talking to his elder sister."   with AGENCIES.