Mann Ki Baat: PM Modi Showcases How Innovation Is Changing Rural Livelihoods

On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi used three examples from different parts of India to show how personal interests, conservation work and new farming choices can create stronger livelihoods.

Key Takeaways

During the 137th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’, PM Modi spoke about Vesalu Puro of Nagaland’s Phek district, who turned her interest in flowers into a business opportunity. Coming from a farming family, she started growing flowers in 2021 and later received scientific cultivation training from a local Krishi Vigyan Kendra.

Vesalu Puro planted thousands of gladiolus bulbs on a quarter-acre plot and harvested more than 5,000 flowers in her first attempt. Her produce, once sold mainly in local markets, now reaches cities including Delhi and Mumbai, PM Modi said.

The Prime Minister then highlighted a community-led conservation effort in Odisha.

Maithili Bhue of Dhodrokusum village in the Debrigarh region had traditionally depended on forest produce such as Mahua flowers, Kendu leaves and bamboo shoots. Her association with Debrigarh Eco-Tourism changed that livelihood model, with forest protection becoming part of her work.

PM Modi said her efforts encouraged more women to participate, and more than 60 women are now involved in activities ranging from wildlife protection and grassland development to eco-tourism.

PM Modi said such initiatives show that environmental conservation and economic progress can go together. He further pointed to the growing demand for avocados and their potential for farmers.

Varadaraj from Kadappa, Andhra Pradesh, shifted part of his farming towards avocados and has produced nearly four tonnes, supplying the crop directly to local shops.

In Tamil Nadu’s Kodaikanal, farmer Chandrashekharan began avocado cultivation on half a hectare, while farmers in Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka, are growing the fruit alongside coffee and black pepper.

PM Modi said these examples demonstrate how innovation, guidance and changing market demand can open additional income opportunities for farmers and rural communities.

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