PM Modi Inspires Local Resilience in 125th Mann Ki Baat Today

A Nation’s Resolve: PM Modi's 125th Mann Ki Baat Addresses Local Resilience

New Delhi, August 31, 2025 – In a milestone edition of his monthly radio address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today spoke to the nation in the 125th episode of "Mann Ki Baat," broadcast live on All India Radio and Doordarshan. The address, a powerful blend of national progress, grassroots stories, and a forward-looking vision, was marked by a strong emphasis on self-reliance, with the Prime Minister urging citizens to embrace local production as a bulwark against global economic pressures.

The address comes at a crucial juncture for the Indian economy, as it grapples with a challenging global landscape marked by rising protectionism and what the Prime Minister referred to as "self-centered economic policies" from some countries. While he did not name any nation, his remarks were widely seen as a direct reference to the recent imposition of steep tariffs by the United States on Indian goods. PM Modi, however, framed this challenge not as a setback, but as a catalyst for a stronger, more resilient India.

A Call for "Vocal for Local" in the Face of Global Tariffs

The central theme of the 125th episode was the concept of "Vocal for Local," a mantra that the Prime Minister has championed since the onset of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) campaign. He stressed that in an era of global economic uncertainty, the strength of the nation lies in its ability to produce for itself and to support its own producers, artisans, and small businesses.

PM Modi called upon every citizen, from the smallest shopkeeper to the largest industrialist, to make a conscious choice to prioritize "Made in India" products. He reiterated his appeal to traders to not sell foreign goods, arguing that this seemingly small act of conscious consumerism would provide a massive boost to the "Make in India" movement. He affirmed that his government would bear any external pressure to protect the interests of Indian farmers, cattle rearers, and small-scale industries. The Prime Minister's message was clear: a small contribution from each citizen would collectively go a long way in achieving national self-reliance.

He also linked the "Vocal for Local" initiative to the upcoming festival season, urging people to make it a point to buy gifts and home decorations that are made in India, by the people of India. This appeal was a continuation of his consistent efforts to turn the initiative into a mass movement, deeply ingrained in the country’s cultural fabric.

Highlighting Resilience Amidst Natural Calamities

The Prime Minister’s address also touched upon the recent natural disasters that have plagued several parts of the country, particularly the devastating floods and landslides that have caused significant damage and loss of life in Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and Himachal Pradesh. PM Modi expressed deep sorrow for the affected families and assured the nation that the pain of those who lost their loved ones is shared by all of India. He spoke of the ongoing relief and rescue efforts, highlighting the dedication of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), the Indian Army, and local administration in helping the affected communities.

In a poignant segment, the Prime Minister also highlighted stories of resilience from these very regions. He mentioned the development work continuing in Jammu and Kashmir despite the ongoing challenges. He made a special mention of the first day-night cricket match in Srinagar and the recently concluded Khelo India Water Sports events, citing them as symbols of the region's indomitable spirit and its commitment to development even in times of distress.

Celebrating Civic Contributions and National Progress

As is the tradition of "Mann Ki Baat," the Prime Minister celebrated inspiring stories from across the country, showcasing the power of collective action and individual innovation. He spoke of a young entrepreneur from a village in rural Bihar who, after attending a skill development workshop, started a small business manufacturing solar street lights. The Prime Minister said that such individuals are the true catalysts of a "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India).

He also touched upon the progress made under various government schemes, including the PM Kisan Scheme, and the e-distribution of property cards under the SVAMITVA Scheme, which empowers rural residents with legal ownership of their property. He highlighted the ongoing efforts to make India a manufacturing hub, mentioning the recent inauguration of the Suzuki Motor plant's localized production of hybrid battery electrodes and the export of the first global battery electric vehicle from the country.

The 125th edition of "Mann Ki Baat" was a powerful reminder of the program's unique role as a two-way communication channel between the government and the people. The topics addressed, from global trade challenges to grassroots innovation, were based on suggestions and inputs received from citizens across the country, reinforcing the spirit of participatory governance. As India charts its course towards becoming a developed nation by 2047, PM Modi’s call to action for local resilience serves as a guiding principle, a message that resonated with millions of listeners across the nation