My dear fellow countrymen,
I am with you again almost after a month. A month is quite a long time. Lots of things keep happening in the world. You all have recently celebrated the festival of Diwali with great fervour and joy. It is these festivals which bring happiness in our daily lives from time to time. Be it poor or rich, people from village or from urban areas, festivals hold a different significance in everyone’s lives. This is my first meeting after Diwali, so I convey my very warm wishes to you all.
Last time we had some general conversation. But then I came to some new realizations after that conversation. Sometimes we think leave it... nothing is going to change, people are indifferent, they will not do anything, our country is like this. From my last conversation in Mann Ki Baat to this one, I would urge you all to change this mindset. Neither is our country is like this nor our people indifferent. Sometimes I feel the Nation is way ahead and the government is lacking behind. And from my personal experience I will say that the governments too needs to change their mindsets. And I say that because I can see tremendous sense of commitment in the Indian youth. They are very eager to do their bit and are just seeking an opportunity where they can do their bit. And they are making efforts at their own end. Last time I had asked them to buy at least one khadi outfit. I had not asked anyone to be Khadidhari, But the feedback I got from Khadi stores was that in a week’s time the sales had jumped up by 125%. In this way, as compared to last year the sales this year is more than double in the week following 2nd Oct. This means, the people of our country is many times more than we think of. I salute all my fellow Indians.
Cleanliness……….. Can anyone imagine that cleanliness will become a such a huge public movement. The expectations are high and they should be so. I can see some good results, cleanliness can now be witnessed in two parts. One is those huge garbage piles which keep lying in the city; well the people in the government will work to remove those. It is a big challenge but you cannot run away from your responsibilities. All state governments and all municipalities will now have to take concrete actions due to the rising public pressure. Media is playing a very positive role in this. But there is the second aspect which gives me immense pleasure, happiness and a sense of satisfaction that the general public has started feeling that leave what happened in the past, now they will not dirty their surroundings. We will not add to the existing dirt. A gentleman Mr Bharat Gupta has sent me a mail on mygov.in from Satna, Madhya Pradesh. He has related his personal experience during his tour of the railways. He said that people eat on trains and usually litter around. He continues to say that he has been touring from the past many years but it is this time around no one was littering, rather they were looking for dustbins to throw their trash. When they could not see any arrangements they collected all their litter in a corner. He says that it was a very gratifying experience for me. I thank Bharat ji for sharing this experience with me.
What I am seeing is that this campaign has had a great influence on kids. Many families mention that now whenever kids eat a chocolate they themselves pick the wrapper and disposes it. I was seeing a message on the social media. Someone had posted a picture with the Title “My hero of the Day”. This picture was that of a little kid who, picks up trash, wherever he goes, even when going to school. He is himself motivated to do this. Just see…people now feel it is their country and they will not make it dirty. We will not add to the existing dirt pile. And those do litter feel ashamed for someone is around to point it out to them. I consider all these to be good omens.
Another thing is that many people come to meet me who are from all the sections of the society. They can be government officers, from film world, sports world, industrialists, scientists ……. All of them, whenever they interact with me, in ten minutes discussion, about four to five minutes the discussion is on social issues. Someone talks about cleanliness, while some others talk about education, while someone talks about social reforms. Some people discuss the ruining of family life. I initially thought if a businessman comes, he will definitely talk of things of his personal interest. But I am seeing a major change.
They talk less about their interest and more about taking on some or the other social responsibility. When I add up all these small incidents I see a larger picture and I realize that we are moving in the right direction. It is true that unhealthy environment leads to diseases and sickness, but where does sickness strike first. It first strikes the poor household. When we work towards cleanliness, we make a major effort in the direction of helping the poor. If the poor families are saved from diseases, then they will be saved from a lot of financial problems. If a person is healthy, then he will work hard, earn for the family and help in running the family smoothly. And so this cleanliness drive is directly related to the health and welfare of my poor brethren. We may not be able to do something to help the poor, but even keeping the environs clean helps the poor in a big way. Let us view it from this perspective; it will be very beneficial.
I receive different kinds of letters. Last time I had mentioned about our specially abled children. Whom God has given some kind of deficiencies; I had expressed my feelings regarding those people. I see that people who work in this field are sending me their success stories. But I came to know about two things from my people in the government. The people from the HRD ministry after hearing my talk, felt the need to do something. And the officers came together to work out an action plan. This is an example of how changes are coming about in governance. One they have decided that those specially abled who want to pursue technical education, a thousand of them who are good will be selected for Special Scholarships, and a plan has been made. I congratulate the officials who could think in those lines. Another important decision is that all the Kendriya Vidyalaya’s and all Central Universities will have a special infrastructure for the specially abled, for example if they can’t climb stairs then there will be provision for ramps to facilitate movement by wheel chair. They need different kinds of toilets. The HRD ministry has decided to allocate an additional Lakh rupees to the Kendriya Vidyalays and Central universities. This fund will be used by these institutions to create infrastructure for the specially abled. This is an auspicious beginning……………these things will lead us to change.
I had the chance to visit Siachin a few days back. I spent Diwali with the Jawans who are ready to lay down their lives for the nation. When the nation was celebrating Diwali I was at Siachin. It is because of them that we were able to celebrate Diwali, so I wanted to be with them. I experienced the difficulties in which they spent their time there. I salute all my Jawans. But I want to share another matter of great pride with you. Our Jawans work in the field of security. In calamities, they risk their lives to save our life. They also fetch medals for us in sporting events. You will be glad to know that these Jawans have won a gold medal in a very prestigious event in Britain called Cambrian Patrol, defeating contestants from 140 nations. I offer these Jawans my heartiest congratulations.
I also got an opportunity to meet, the young and dynamic students, boys and girls over tea who had won medals in Sports. They give me renewed energy. I was seeing their zeal and enthusiasm. The facilities in our country are quite less as compared to other nations, but instead of complaining they were just sharing their joy and excitement. For me, this tea programme for these players was very inspiring, and I felt really good.
I would like to tell you something more and that too from my heart. I truly believe that people of my country trust my words and my intentions. But, today one more time, I want to reiterate my commitment. As far as black money is concerned, my people, please trust your Prime Servant, for me this is the Article of Faith. This is my commitment that the hard-earned money of the poor people stashed abroad, every penny of that should be brought back. The ways and means to be followed can be different. And this is very obvious in a democratic country, but on the basis of as much I understand and as much I know, I assure you that we are on the right track. Today, nobody, neither me, nor the government, nor you, nor even the previous government knew how much money is stashed abroad. Everyone gives estimate calculated in his/her own way. I don’t want to get lost in some such figures and estimates, Its my commitment that, be it 2 rupees, or 5 rupees, or millions or even billions, this is the hard-earned money of the poor people of my country and it has to come back. And I assure you that I will keep trying till the end. No efforts will be spared. I want your blessings to be always with me. I assure you that I will do whatever and whenever something is required to be done for you. I give my commitment to you.
I have received a letter. It has been sent by Sri Abhishek Pareekh. The same sentiments were expressed to me by many mothers and sisters when I was not even the Prime Minister. Some doctor friends had also expressed their concern and I too have expressed my views on this issue a number of times in the past. Mr. Parikh has drawn my attention towards the increase of drug addiction that is fast catching up with our young generation. He has asked me to discuss this topic in “Mann ki Baat.” I agree with his concern and I will definitely include this topic, in my next edition of Mann Ki Baat. I will discuss the topic of drugs, drug addiction and drug mafia and how they are a threat to our country’s youth. If you have some experience, any information in this regard, if you have ever rescued any child from this drug addiction, if you know of any ways and means to help, if any government official has played a good role, if you give me any such information, I will convey such efforts to the public and together we will try to create an environment in each family that no child ever thinks of choosing this vice out of sheer frustration. I will definitely discuss this in detail in the next edition.
I know I am choosing those topics which put the government in the dock. But how long will we keep these things hiding? How long will we brush these important concerns under the carpet? Some day or the other we need to take a call, follow our instincts and for grand intentions tough calls are equally important. I am mustering the courage to do so because your love inspires me to do so. And I will continue to do such things because of your love.
Some people told me “ Modi ji you asked us to send you suggestions on Facebook, twitter or email. But a large section of the social class does not have access to these facilities, so what can they do. Your point is very valid. Everyone does not have this facility. Well then, if you have something to say related to Mann Ki Baat, that you hear on the radio even in the villages then do write into me on the following address
Mann Ki Baat
Akashvani
Sansad Marg
New Delhi.
Even if you send some suggestions through letters they will definitely reach me. And I will take them seriously as active citizens are the biggest asset for development. You write one letter, it indicates that you are very active. When you give your opinion, it means that you are concerned with national issues and this is strength of the nation. I welcome you.
For my Mann Ki Baat, your mann ki baat sould also reach me. Maybe you will definitely write a letter. I will try and interact with you again next month. I will try, that whenever I talk, it is Sunday, around 11 am. So I am getting closer to you.
The weather is changing. Winters are slowly setting in. This is a good month for health. Some find it a good season for eating. Some find it good for wearing nice clothes. Besides food and clothes it is a good season for health. Don’t let it go waste. Make the most of it.
Thank You.
(The original speech was in Hindi, this is the English rendering. Original speech remains the authoritative version)
Published By : Admin |
November 2, 2014 | 11:28 IST
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Somnath Swabhiman Parv: “Feeling blessed to be in Somnath, a proud symbol of our civilisational courage,” says PM Modi
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The fact sheet on India's growth is a success story of the Reform-Perform-Transform mantra: PM Modi in Rajkot
January 11, 2026
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India is the world's fastest-growing large economy: PM
The fact sheet on India's growth is a success story of the Reform-Perform-Transform mantra: PM
At a time of great global uncertainty, India is moving ahead with remarkable certainty: PM
Along with infrastructure, an industry-ready workforce is today's biggest need: PM
Today's India is moving rapidly towards becoming a developed nation; the Reform Express is playing a crucial role in achieving this objective: PM
Greetings!
Honourable Chief Minister of Gujarat Shri Bhupendra Bhai Patel, Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, other Ministers of the Gujarat Government, Members of Parliament and Legislative Assembly, Excellencies, representatives of industry, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen.
This is my first visit to Gujarat after the beginning of 2026. It is especially auspicious because my journey this year began with bowing my head at the feet of Somnath Dada. And now, I am here in Rajkot, participating in this magnificent programme. Development and heritage—this mantra is resonating everywhere. I warmly welcome and extend my greetings to all of you who have come from across the country and the world to the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Summit.
Friends,
Whenever the stage of the Vibrant Gujarat Summit is set, I do not see it merely as a summit. I see the journey of modern India in the 21st century—a journey that began with a dream and has now reached an unshakable trust. In two decades, this journey of Vibrant Gujarat has become a global benchmark. Ten editions have already been held, and with each edition, the identity and role of this summit have grown stronger.
Friends,
I have been associated with the vision of the Vibrant Gujarat Summit since its very inception. In the early days, our aim was to make the world aware of Gujarat’s potential, to invite people here, to encourage investment—so that India would benefit, and global investors too would benefit. But today, this summit has gone beyond investment; it has become a strong platform for global growth, international cooperation, and partnerships. Over the years, the number of global partners has steadily increased, and with time, this summit has also become a great example of inclusion. Here, corporate groups, cooperatives, MSMEs, start-ups, multilateral and bilateral organisations, international financial institutions—all come together, engage in dialogue, deliberate, and walk shoulder to shoulder with Gujarat’s development.
Friends,
Over the past two decades, the Vibrant Gujarat Summit has consistently introduced something new, something special. This Vibrant Gujarat Regional Summit is another such example. Its focus is on transforming the untapped potential of different parts of Gujarat into performance. For instance, some regions have the strength of a coastal line, others have a long tribal belt, some have a large ecosystem of industrial clusters, while others have a rich tradition of agriculture and animal husbandry. In other words, each region of Gujarat has its own unique strength. The Vibrant Gujarat Regional Summit is moving forward by focusing on these regional possibilities.
Friends,
A quarter of the 21st century has already passed. In these years, India has made rapid progress, and Gujarat—and all of you—have played a major role in this. India is moving swiftly towards becoming the world’s third-largest economy. The data clearly shows that the world’s expectations from India are continuously rising. India is the fastest-growing large economy in the world. Inflation is under control. In agriculture production, India is setting new records. India is number one in milk production. India is number one in generic medicine production. And when it comes to vaccine manufacturing, the country that produces the highest number of vaccines in the world is India.
Friends,
India’s growth fact sheet is the success story of the mantra Reform, Perform & Transform. In the past 11 years, India has become the world’s largest consumer of mobile data. Our UPI has emerged as the world’s number one real-time digital transaction platform. Once, 9 out of 10 mobile phones were imported. Today, India is the world’s second-largest mobile manufacturer. India now has the world’s third-largest start-up ecosystem. In solar power generation too, India is among the top three countries. We are the third-largest aviation market, and in terms of metro networks, India is now among the world’s top three.
Friends,
Today, every global expert and institution is bullish about India. The IMF calls India the engine of global growth. S&P has upgraded India’s rating after 18 years. Fitch Ratings praises India’s macro stability and fiscal credibility. The world’s trust in India is because, amidst great global uncertainty, India is experiencing an unprecedented era of certainty. Today, India has political stability, policy continuity, and an expanding neo-middle class with rising purchasing power. These factors have made India a land of limitless possibilities. As I said from the Red Fort—this is the time, the right time. For every investor in India and across the world, this is the time, the right time to seize these opportunities. The Vibrant Gujarat Regional Summit too is sending the same message to all investors—invest in Saurashtra-Kutch, this is the time, the right time.
Friends,
You all know that Saurashtra and Kutch are regions that teach us that no matter how big the challenge, if one perseveres with honesty and hard work, success is certain. This is the same Kutch that endured a devastating earthquake at the start of this century. This is the same Saurashtra that faced years of drought. Mothers and sisters had to walk miles for drinking water. Electricity was uncertain, and difficulties were everywhere.
Friends,
Today’s youth of 20–25 years have only heard stories of that era. The reality was that people were unwilling to stay long in Kutch or Saurashtra. At that time, it seemed these conditions would never change. But history bears witness—time changes, and it surely changes. The people of Saurashtra and Kutch transformed their destiny through their hard work.
Friends,
Today, Saurashtra and Kutch are not just regions of opportunity; they have become anchor regions of India’s growth. They are emerging as major centres driving the Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign. In making India a global manufacturing hub, Saurashtra and Kutch are playing a vital role—and this role is market-driven. This is the greatest assurance for investors. Right here in Rajkot, there are more than 250,000 MSMEs. In its diverse industrial clusters, everything is produced—from screwdrivers to auto parts, machine tools, luxury car liners, airplane, fighter jet and rocket components. This region supports the entire value chain—from low-cost manufacturing to high-precision, high-technology manufacturing. And the jewellery industry here is world-renowned. This sector is a shining example of scale, skill, and global linkage.
Friends,
Alang is the world’s largest ship-breaking yard, where one-third of the world’s ships are recycled. This is proof of India’s leadership in the circular economy. India is among the largest producers of tiles, with Morbi district making a huge contribution. Manufacturing here is cost-competitive and globally benchmarked. I recall—many of you from the Saurashtra press may remember—once in a speech here I said I could see a time when Morbi, Jamnagar, and Rajkot would form a triangle like a mini-Japan. I was ridiculed then, but today I see that vision becoming reality before my eyes. We are also proud of the Dholera Special Investment Region. Today, this city is becoming a major centre of modern manufacturing. India’s first semiconductor fabrication facility is coming up in Dholera. This region is giving India an early-mover advantage in future technologies. The ground is fully prepared for your investment here—Infrastructure is ready, policy is predictable, and vision is long-term.
Friends,
Saurashtra and Kutch are also becoming major hubs of India’s green growth, green mobility, and energy security. In Kutch, a renewable energy park of 30 gigawatt capacity is being built—the world’s largest hybrid energy park. Imagine, this park will be five times bigger than the city of Paris. Here, clean energy is not just a commitment but a commercial-scale reality. You are all aware of the potential of green hydrogen. India is working at unprecedented speed and scale in this direction. Kutch and Jamnagar are becoming major centres of green hydrogen production. A massive Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is also being established in Kutch. This ensures grid stability and reliability alongside renewable energy.
Friends,
Kutch and Saurashtra have yet another great strength. This region is equipped with India’s world-class ports. A large share of India’s exports passes through here. Ports like Pipavav and Mundra have become major hubs for India’s automobile exports. Last year alone, nearly 175,000 vehicles were exported through Gujarat’s ports. And it is not just logistics—there are limitless investment opportunities in every aspect of port-led development. Alongside this, the Gujarat government is giving special priority to the fisheries sector. Large-scale work has been done on fisheries infrastructure, and a strong ecosystem has been created here for investors in seafood processing.
Friends,
Along with infrastructure, an industry-ready workforce is today’s greatest need. Gujarat provides complete certainty to investors on this front. Here, an international ecosystem of education and skill development exists. Gujarat’s Skill University is preparing youth with future-ready skills, working in collaboration with universities in Australia and Singapore. The National Defence University is India’s first national-level defence university. Gati Shakti University is preparing skilled manpower for every sector—road, railway, airway, waterways, and logistics. This means that along with investment, the talent pipeline is also assured. Today, many foreign universities are seeing new opportunities in India, and Gujarat is becoming their preferred destination. Two major Australian universities have already started their campuses here, and this number will grow further in the coming years.
Friends,
Gujarat offers nature, adventure, culture, and heritage. Whatever tourism experience one seeks, it is available here. Lothal is a symbol of India’s 4,500-year-old maritime heritage. The world’s oldest man-made dockyard has been found here, and a National Maritime Heritage Complex is being developed. In Kutch, the Rann Utsav is being celebrated these days, and staying in its tent city is a unique experience.
For wildlife enthusiasts, what could be better than seeing the Asiatic lion in Gir Forest? More than 900,000 tourists visit here every year. For those who love the sea, there is Shivrajpur Beach, which is Blue Flag certified. In addition, Mandvi, Somnath, and Dwarka also offer immense possibilities for beach tourism. Nearby Diu is becoming a wonderful destination for water sports and beach games. This entire region is full of strength and opportunities for investors. I urge you to make the most of it. And as I have long said—if you delay, do not blame me. Every investment you make in Saurashtra-Kutch will accelerate Gujarat’s development, and India’s development.
The strength of Saurashtra is also seen abroad. The High Commissioner of Rwanda recently recalled that when I visited Rwanda, I gifted 200 Gir cows. But there was a special rule: the first female calf born had to be returned, and then given to another family. From those 200 cows, today thousands of families in Rwanda have cows. Gir cows are now seen in every household, giving great strength to Rwanda’s rural economy. This is the spirit of Saurashtra.
Friends,
Today’s India is working rapidly towards the goal of becoming a developed nation. And in achieving this goal, the Reform Express plays a major role. Reform Express means next-generation reforms in every sector. Recently, India implemented next-generation GST reforms, which have had a positive impact across sectors, especially benefiting our MSMEs. Riding the Reform Express, India has carried out a major reform in the insurance sector—allowing 100 percent FDI. This will accelerate the campaign to provide universal insurance coverage to citizens. Similarly, after nearly six decades, the income tax law has been modernized, benefiting millions of taxpayers. India has also implemented historic labour reforms, giving wages, social security, and industry a unified framework. Workers and industry alike are benefiting from this.
India is becoming a global hub for data-driven innovation, AI research, and semiconductor manufacturing. India’s power demand is rising steadily, and assured energy is essential. A major source of this is nuclear power. Keeping this in mind, we have introduced next-generation reforms in the nuclear power sector. In the last session of Parliament, through the Shanti Act, civil nuclear energy has been opened up for private partnership. This is a huge opportunity for investors.
Friends,
I assure all investors present here—our Reform Express will not stop. India’s reform journey has now advanced towards institutional transformation.
You have not come here merely with an MoU. You have come here to connect with the development and heritage of Saurashtra-Kutch. I assure you, every rupee of your investment will yield excellent returns here. Once again, I extend my warmest greetings to all of you. I also congratulate and commend the Government of Gujarat and its team for their efforts. Before the Vibrant Summit of 2027, this regional summit is proving to be a valuable experiment. And I feel immense joy that the work I had the opportunity to initiate is now being expanded and infused with new energy by my colleagues. This multiplies my happiness many times over. My heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all of you. Thank you!
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