The Congress on Monday lodged a complaint with the Election Commission of India against Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Mann Ki Baat’ programme on All India Radio which was aired on Friday, October 3. The Congress alleged that it was a violation of model code of conduct as two states – Haryana and Maharashtra – go to polls on October 15.
In a new initiative to reach out to the maximum populace, Modi connected with people over radio with the programme, giving a pep talk on shedding despondency and use of skills for the country’s betterment and prosperity.
He impressed upon the people to generate confidence among themselves, including the specially-abled children who are a responsibility of the society, and advocated the need for use of khadi products as a homage to Mahatma Gandhi.
He promised to make the radio broadcast a regular affair and invited ideas from the citizens while noting that he was encouraged by the number of suggestions he had received since it was announced that he would be addressing the nation over radio.
In his 15-minute address that coincided with Dussehra, he sought to motivate people to recognise their capabilities and use them.
“You know, our scientists have undertaken the Mars mission successfully at minimum expenses. There is nothing lacking in our capabilities. We only have forgotten our
strengths. We have forgotten ourselves as if we have become despondents. My brothers and sisters, this cannot be,” he said.
Contending that “the 125 crore Indians are blessed with immense skill and strength”, he said, “All we need to do is to understand our strengths.”
He also referred to Mahatma Gandhi, whose birth anniversary was celebrated a day before, and impressed upon people to use at least one khadi product, be it a handkerchief or even a bedsheet.
“If you buy khadi, you light the lamp of prosperity in the house of a poor person,” he said.
