Modi marks 12 years of Mann Ki Baat with call to back local artisans

Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked 12 years of his Mann Ki Baat radio programme on Sunday by appealing to citizens to champion local artisans and Indian-made products, particularly as the festive season approaches. The monthly address, which has become a key platform for the Prime Minister to connect directly with the public, highlighted the economic and cultural significance of supporting grassroots craftsmanship. Modi's remarks aligned with the government's broader 'Make in India' agenda, which has prioritised domestic manufacturing and small-scale enterprises. Beyond artisan support, the Prime Minister drew attention to community-led initiatives making strides in agriculture, environmental preservation and scientific research across the country. The emphasis on local enterprises reflects New Delhi's policy push to strengthen rural economies and promote sustainable development at the grassroots level. The Mann Ki Baat programme, which began in 2014, has evolved into a significant communication tool through which Modi addresses citizens on matters ranging from national development to social issues.