‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ turning into mass movement: PM Modi during 'Mann ki Baat'

Ravi S Singh

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New Delhi, July 31

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the 91st edition of his monthly “Mann ki Baat” on Sunday paid tribute to Shaheed Udham Singh and other martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country’s freedom.

He said the legacy of freedom fighters vision and values has to be cherished and preserved.

The PM said the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ is turning into a mass movement and urged people to put ‘tiranga’ as a profile picture of their social media accounts between August 2 and 15.

Modi noted that under the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ programme to mark the 75th anniversary of India’s Independence, a special campaign ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ is being organised between August 13 and 15.

He urged people to hoist or display the national flag at their homes during the campaign.

“Let us further this movement by hoisting the national flag at our homes,” he said.

Modi also urged people to put tricolour as the profile picture of their accounts on social media platforms from August 2-15, noting that August 2 is the birth anniversary of Pingali Venkayya who had designed the flag.

The prime minister said he was happy that the Mahotsav is taking the form of a mass movement, with people from all walks of life and from every section of society participating in different programmes across the country.

“When India completes 75 years of its Independence, all of us are going to witness a splendid and historic moment,” he said referring to August 15.

It is the current generation’s good fortune to witness the Independence Day’s 75th anniversary.

“Had we been born in the era of slavery, then how would have we imagined this day,” he said, asserting that the biggest message that emerges from all events being organised in the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ is that the countrymen should follow their duty with full devotion.

“Only then will we be able to fulfil the dream of those countless freedom fighters and to build the India of their dreams,” he said.

That is why this ‘Amrit Kaal’ of our next 25 years is “Kartavyakaal”, a period of duty for every citizen.

Noting that there are many railway stations associated with the history of the freedom movement, Modi said 75 of them across 24 states have been identified and they will host several programmes.

Talking about coronavirus infection, Modi said the prophylactic qualities of herbal and medicinal plants have come to the fore and that umpteen studies on them were afoot.

He also lauded farmers for their innovative approach and diversification.

He mentioned India’s export of honey has increased.

Talking about the ongoing “Minjar Mela” festival in Chamba, he mentioned the scenic beauty of the town.

Dwelling on tribal fairs, the prime minister talked about celebrations in several parts of the country that are laced in historicity and culture.

He said that fairs are a source of spiritual and social energy and the youth must take part in them. He said the Ministry of Culture shall soon promote it.

Pitching for “Vocal for Local”, he said India’s toy sector was ahead of the curve with its innovation and quality production leading to quantum jump in export, and reduction of import. He said at present, India exports toys worth Rs 2,600 crore which used to be between Rs 300 crore to Rs 400 crore.

He said that the collective toy import bill has reduced by 70 per cent.

Modi also lauded Indian sportspersons for performing “exceptionally well” at several international events and said the month of July has been full of action when it comes to sports.

Ace shuttler PV Sindhu has won her first title of Singapore Open while Neeraj Chopra also continued his excellent performance and won the silver medal for the country in the World Athletics Championship, he said.

He also mentioned performance of Indian players in different tournaments.

An Indian team, full of youthful enthusiasm is representing the country in the Commonwealth Games, he said.

“I am also happy that India is going to host the FIFA Under 17 Women’s World Cup as well. This tournament will be held around October, which will enhance the enthusiasm of the daughters of the country towards sports,” he said. With inputs from PTI