Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday celebrated India’s agricultural progress and renewed cultural consciousness during the 131st episode of Mann Ki Baat.
He spotlighted a nationwide effort to preserve heritage seeds, crediting farmers for transformative outcomes. Referring to Kerala’s Thrissur district, he said farmers there cultivate 570 varieties of rice, including local and herbal strains as well as varieties sourced from other states.
He described the initiative as not merely farming but a massive campaign to conserve seed heritage, adding that the impact of farmers’ hard work is visible in national statistics.
The Prime Minister noted that India has emerged as the world’s largest rice producer, with output exceeding 15 crore tonnes (150 million tonnes). He said the milestone enables India to meet domestic requirements while strengthening its contribution to the global food basket.
Highlighting export growth, he pointed to air shipments of agricultural produce and cited GI-tagged products from Karnataka, including Nanjangud Rasabale bananas, Mysore betel leaves and Indian limes, being exported to the Maldives. He said today’s farmers are focused on improving quality, increasing quantity and building their own identity.
Turning to cultural themes, PM Modi recalled last year’s Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, describing it as a powerful awakening of Sanatani consciousness at the sacred confluence.
He drew parallels with Kerala’s Mamangam, also referred to as Kerala Kumbh, held at Tirunavaya along the Bharathappuzha River. The centuries-old festival, centred on holy dips and devotion, had faded over time but was recently revived with strong public participation.
The Prime Minister said such gatherings, whether in the north or south, go beyond ritual and signify cultural unity, reflecting the enduring essence of India.
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