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We must proudly speak in our mother tongue: PM Modi during Mann Ki Baat

Published By : Admin | February 27, 2022 | 11:30 IST
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My dear countrymen, Namaskar!

Welcome to 'Mann Ki Baat' once again. Today we will commence 'Mann Ki Baat' mentioning India's success. In the beginning of this month, India has been successful in bringing home an invaluable heritage of hers from Italy. This heritage is the over one thousand years old idol of Avalokiteshvara Padmapani. This idol was stolen a few years ago from Kundalpur temple, Devi Sthan of Gaya ji in Bihar. But after innumerable efforts, India has now got this idol back. Similarly, a few years ago the idol of Lord Anjaneyaar, Hanuman ji was stolen from Vellore in Tamil Nadu. This idol of Hanuman ji was also 600-700 years old. Earlier this month, we retrieved this in Australia; our Mission has received it.

Friends, in our history of thousands of years, idols, one better than the other were always being made in various parts of the country; it also comprised reverence, capability, skill and was full of varied diversity. And the history of each of our idols also depicts the influence of their respective times. Not only were they a wonderful artistic example of Indian sculpture; our faith was also connected with them. But, in the past, many idols were stolen and kept being taken out of India. Sometimes in this country, at times in another, these idols were sold... and for them they were just pieces of art. Neither did they have anything to do with their history, nor with reverence attached to them. It is our responsibility towards Mother India to bring home these idols. These idols embody a part of the soul of India; faith as well. They also have a cultural-historical significance. Realising this responsibility, India increased her efforts. And resultantly, it fostered a deterrent fear against the tendency to steal. The countries where these idols were stolen and taken away to, also started to feel now that it could also have immense significance in the diplomatic channel of soft power in relations with India. India's feelings are associated with it; India's reverence is attached as well, and, in a way, it creates a lot of strength in people-to-people relations as well. Just a few days ago you must have noted that the idol of Ma Annapurna Devi, which was stolen from Kashi, was also brought back. This is an example of the changing global outlook towards India. Till the year 2013, nearly 13 idols had been brought back to India. But, in the last seven years, India has successfully brought back more than 200 precious idols. Many countries such as America, Britain, Holland, France, Canada, Germany, Singapore have understood this sentiment of India and helped us to retrieve these idols. When I went to America in September last year, I came across a lot of very old idols and many artefacts of cultural importance there. Whenever any priceless heritage returns to the country, it is naturally a matter of great satisfaction for all of us....as an Indian, as one who has reverence for history and archaeology, one connected with faith and culture. 

Friends, talking about Indian culture and our heritage, today I want to introduce you to two people in 'Mann Ki Baat'. These days, two Tanzanian siblings, Kili Paul and his sister Nima, are in the news a lot on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and I'm sure you too, must have heard about them. They have a passion, a craze for Indian music and for this reason they are also very popular. Their technique of Lip Sync shows how hard they work at it. Recently, a video of him singing our National Anthem 'Jana Gana Mana' on the occasion of Republic Day went viral. A few days ago, he also paid a soulful tribute to Lata didi by presenting her song. I really appreciate these two siblings Kili and Nima very much for their wonderful creativity. A few days ago, he has also been honoured at the Indian Embassy in Tanzania. The magic of Indian music is such that it fascinates everyone. I recall, a few years ago, singers-musicians from more than one hundred and fifty countries of the world, in their respective countries, in their respective costumes, made a successful presentation of 'Vaishnav Jan', the beloved bhajan of revered Bapu, the favourite composition of Mahatma Gandhi. 

Today, when India is celebrating the important festival of 75th year of its Independence, similar initiatives can be carried out regarding patriotic songs, wherein foreign nationals or famous singers from abroad are invited to render Indian patriotic songs. Not only this, if Kili and Neema in Tanzania can lip sync the songs of India in this manner, aren’t there many types of songs in my country... in many languages ​​​​of our country... can’t any Gujarati children do that with Tamil songs....some children of Kerala could do that with Assamese songs.... some Kannada children could that with songs of Jammu and Kashmir! We can create such an environment in which we will be able to experience 'Ek Bharat-Shreshtha Bharat'. Not only this, we can definitely celebrate Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav in a novel way. I urge the youth of the country to make videos of the popular songs of Indian languages ​​in their own way.... you will become very popular! And the diversity of the country will be introduced to the new generation.

My dear countrymen, just a few days ago, we celebrated International Mother Language Day. Those who are learned can give a lot of academic input about where the word mother tongue came from, how it originated. I would emphasise about mother tongue that as our mother moulds our life, in the same manner, mother tongue also shapes our life. The mother and mother tongue, both together strengthen the foundation of life; lending it permanence. Just like we cannot abandon our mother, similarly, we cannot leave our mother tongue either. I remember an incident of yesteryears, when I had gone to America, I would get a chance to visit different families. Once I went to a Telugu family and I got to see a very happy scenario there. They told me that they had made a rule in the family that no matter how busy one were to be, if they were not outstation, then all the family members would have dinner sitting at the table together and equally compulsory on the dinner table was conversing in Telugu language only. This was also the rule for the children who were born there. Seeing this love for the mother tongue, I was highly impressed by this family.

Friends, even after 75 years of independence, some people are facing a mental dilemma due to which they have reservations with regard to their language, their dress, their food and drink, whereas, it is not like this anywhere else in the world. It is our mother tongue; we should speak it with pride. And, our India is so rich in terms of languages ​​that it just cannot be compared. The biggest beauty of our languages ​​is that from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, from Kutch to Kohima, hundreds of languages, thousands of dialects which are different from each other but are mutually integrated...many languages - one expression. For centuries, our languages have been evolving whilst learning from each other and ​​have been refining themselves, developing each other. The world’s oldest language Tamil is in India and every Indian should be proud that we have such a significant heritage of the world. In the same way, many ancient scriptures are also there; their expression too is in our Sanskrit language. The people of India are proud to be associated with 121 forms of mother tongues and 14 of these languages ​​are spoken by more than 1 crore people in everyday life. That is, many European countries do not have a total population than the people who are associated with 14 different languages ​​in our country. In the year 2019, Hindi was ranked third among the most spoken languages ​​of the world. Every Indian should be proud of this too. Language is not just a medium of expression, but also serves to preserve the culture and heritage of the society. Surjan Parohi ji is doing similar work in Suriname to save the heritage of his language. He turned 84 on the 2nd of this month. His forefathers also went to Suriname years ago, along with thousands of workers, to earn a living. Surjan Parohi ji writes very good poetry in Hindi; his name is considered among the national poets there. That is, even today Hindustan beats in his heart; there is a fragrance of the soil of India in his works. The people of Suriname have also built a museum in the name of Surjan Parohi ji. It is very heartening for me that in the year 2015 I had the opportunity to honour him.

Friends, today, that is, 27th February is also Marathi Bhasha Gaurav Divas.

“सर्व मराठी बंधु भगिनिना मराठी भाषा दिनाच्या हार्दिक शुभेच्छा|”

This day is dedicated to Marathi Kaviraj, Vishnu Vaman Shirvadkar ji, Shriman Kusumagraj ji. Today is also the birth anniversary of Kusumagraj ji. Kusumagraj ji wrote poems in Marathi, wrote many plays, and took Marathi literature to new heights.

Friends, our languages have their own special characteristics; mother tongue has its own science. For understanding this science, emphasis has been laid on studies in the local language in the National Education Policy. Efforts are being made that our professional courses should also be taught in the regional languages. In Azadi Ka Amrit Kaal, we all should lend momentum to this effort together; this is a work indicative of self-respect. I would like you to know about the qualities of whatever mother tongue you speak and write something in it.

Friends, A few days ago I had a meeting with my friend and former Prime Minister of Kenya, Raila Odinga. This meeting was interesting but also very emotional. Since we are very good friends, we also discuss freely. While both of us were in a conversation, Odinga ji told about his daughter. His daughter Rosemary had a brain tumour and because of this she had to undergo surgery. However, one side-effect of this was that Rosemary almost lost her eyesight; she stopped seeing. You can imagine what must have happened to the daughter.... and we can also guess the condition of the father, we can understand his feelings. In hospitals all over the world... there was not any major country in the world, where he had not tried his best for the treatment of his daughter. He searched the big countries of the world, but, there was no success and in a way, giving up all hopes, there was an atmosphere of despair in the entire household. Meanwhile, someone suggested him to come to India for Ayurveda treatment and even though he had tried a lot and was tired, yet he thought that let's try once again... see what happens! He came to India, started getting his daughter treated at an Ayurvedic hospital in Kerala. The daughter stayed here for a long time. The effect of this Ayurvedic treatment was such that Rosemary's eyesight returned to a great extent. You can imagine, as if a new lease of life was given and light came back into Rosemary's life. As the new light has come in the whole family, Odinga ji was so emotional while telling me this and that he wishes, that the knowledge and science of Ayurveda of India, should be brought to Kenya. The type of plants that are used in it will be cultivated by them and he will do his best to get more people to benefit from it.

It is a matter of great happiness for me that from our land and our tradition have alleviated such a great suffering from someone's life. You will also be happy to hear this. Which Indian would not be proud of it? We all know that not only Odinga ji but lakhs of people across the world are reaping similar benefits from Ayurveda.

Prince Charles from Britain is also one of the big admirers of Ayurveda. Whenever I meet him, he definitely mentions Ayurveda. He is also aware of many Ayurvedic institutions of India.

Friends, in the last seven years a lot of attention has been paid to the promotion of Ayurveda in the country. The formation of the Ministry of AYUSH has further strengthened our resolve to popularise our traditional methods of medicine and health. I am very happy that in the last few years many new start-ups have emerged in the field of Ayurveda. The AYUSH Start-up Challenge started earlier this month. The goal of this challenge is to identify and support the start-ups working in this field. I urge the youth working in this field, that they should take part in this challenge.

Friends, once people are determined to do something together, they do wonderful things. There have been many such big changes in the society, in which public participation, collective effort, has played a significant role. One such mass movement named "Mission Jal Thal" is underway in Srinagar, Kashmir. This is a unique effort to clean the lakes and ponds of Srinagar and restore their old glory. The focus of “Mission Jal Thal” is on “Kushal Saar” and “Gil Saar”. Along with public participation, a lot of help of technology is also being taken in this. To find out where there has been encroachment, where illegal construction has taken place, a formal survey of this area was carried out. Along with this, a campaign to remove plastic waste and clean up the waste was also launched. In the second phase of the mission, a lot of effort was also made to restore the old water channels and 19 springs filling the lake. In order to spread more and more awareness about the importance of this Restoration Project, local people and youth were also made Water Ambassadors. Now the local people here are also taking efforts for increasing the number of migratory birds and fish in "Gil Saar Lake" and are also happy to see it. My heartiest congratulations to the people of Srinagar for this wonderful effort.

Friends, the 'Clean India Mission' started by the country eight years ago, with the passage of time, it expanded manifold... new innovations were also added. Wherever you go in India, you will find that some effort is being made for cleanliness everywhere. I have come to know about one such attempt in Kokrajhar, Assam. Here a group of morning walkers have taken a very commendable initiative under the 'Clean and Green Kokrajhar' mission. All of them gave a motivational message of cleanliness by cleaning the three kilometre long road in the new flyover area. Similarly, under the 'Clean India Campaign' in Visakhapatnam, cloth bags are being promoted instead of polythene. People here are also campaigning against Single Use Plastic products to keep the environment clean. Along with this, these people are also spreading awareness to segregate the waste at home. The students of Somaiya College in Mumbai have also included beautification in their campaign of cleanliness. They have decorated the walls of Kalyan railway station with beautiful paintings. An inspiring example from Sawai Madhopur in Rajasthan has also come to my notice. The youth here have started a campaign named 'Mission Beat Plastic' in Ranthambore, in which plastic and polythene have been removed from the forests of Ranthambore. This spirit of Sabka Prayas, everyone's effort strengthens public participation in the country and when there is public participation, even the biggest goals are definitely met.

My dear countrymen, just a few days from today, International Women's Day will be celebrated all over the world on 8th of March. We have been sharing many examples related to the courage, skill, and talent of women in 'Mann Ki Baat'. Today, whether it is Skill India, Self Help Group, small or big industries, women have taken the lead everywhere. Wherever you see, women are dispelling old myths. Today, in our country, From Parliament to Panchayat, women are reaching newer heights in different fields. In the Army too, daughters are now playing responsibilities in new and bigger roles and are protecting the country. Last month on Republic Day we saw that daughters were flying modern fighter planes too. The country also lifted the restrictions on the admission of daughters in Sainik Schools, and daughters are taking admission in Sainik Schools all over the country. Similarly, look at the start-up world, in the recent years, thousands of new start-ups began in the country. About half of these start-ups have women in director roles. In the recent past, decisions like increasing maternity leave for women have been taken. The country is trying to give equal rights to sons and daughters by fixing a common age for marriage. Due to this, the participation of women is increasing in every field. You must be noticing another major change happening in the country. This change is the success of our social campaigns. Take the success of 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao'... today the sex ratio in the country has improved. The number of girls going to school has also improved. In this we also have a responsibility that our daughters do not drop out of school. Similarly, women in the country have got freedom from open defecation under the 'Swachh Bharat Abhiyan'. A social evil like triple talaq is also coming to an end. Ever since the law against triple talaq has come into being, there has been a reduction of 80 percent in triple talaq cases in the country. How are all these changes happening in such a short span of time? This change is coming because women themselves are now leading the change and progressive efforts in our country.

My dear countrymen, tomorrow the 28th of February is 'National Science Day'. This day is also known for the discovery of Raman Effect. Along with CV Raman ji, I pay my respectful tribute to all the scientists who have contributed significantly in enriching our scientific journey. Friends, technology has secured an important place in our lives in the realm of ease and simplicity. Which technology is good and what is the better use of that technology, we are well acquainted with all these subjects. But, it is also true that the basis of that technology, the underlying science is something that we neglect in conveying to the children of our family. On this Science Day, I urge all the families to definitely start with small efforts to develop a scientific temperament in their children.

Now, for example – poor vision... after wearing glasses, vision improves with clarity... children can easily be explained on the science behind it. It’s not that one should restrict oneself to just looking at the glasses and enjoying. Now you can simply explain to the child on a small piece of paper. Now the child uses a mobile phone...how does a calculator work, how does a remote control work, what are sensors? Along with this, are such scientific elements also discussed in the house? Maybe we can easily explain these things behind the everyday functioning of the household, what is the inherent science behind a phenomenon. In the same way, have we ever indulged in stargazing together with the children? There must have been conversations about stars in the night. Different constellations appear, tell them about them. By doing this you can create a new interest in children towards physics and astronomy. Nowadays, there are also many apps through which you can locate the stars and planets, or, you can identify the star which is visible in the sky and can also know about it. I will also tell our start-ups that you should employ your skills and scientific character in the work related to nation-building. This is also our Collective Scientific Responsibility towards the country. Like, nowadays I see that our start-ups are doing very well in the world of virtual reality. In this era of virtual classes, one such virtual lab can be designed keeping children in mind. We can also make children experience a chemistry lab sitting at home through virtual reality. My request to my teachers and parents is to encourage all the students and children to ask questions and together with them find the right answers to those questions. Today, I would also like to appreciate the role of Indian scientists in the fight against Corona. Due to their hard work, it was possible to manufacture the Made In India vaccine, which has helped the whole world a lot. This is the gift of science to humanity.

My dear countrymen, this time too we discussed many subjects. Many festivals are lined up in the coming month of March... Shivratri... A few days later we will all will start preparing for Holi. Holi is a festival that unites us all. In this festival, all differences between near-dear ones and strangers, big and small, rancour and envy disappear. That is why it is said that the colours of love and harmony are thicker than the colours of Holi. Along with Gujiya in Holi, there is a unique sweetness of relationships as well. We have to strengthen these bonds further, and relations are not only with the people of our family but also with the people who are part of your larger family. You have to remember the most important way to do so. This is the way of celebrating the festival through 'Vocal for Local'. You should buy local products on festivals, so that the lives of the people living around you also become colourful and vibrant. The success with which our country is fighting the battle against Corona and moving forward is imparting enthusiasm to the festivals manifold. With this very zeal, we have to celebrate our festivals, and at the same time, we have to maintain our caution. I wish you all a very Happy festival season. I will always be waiting for your words, your letters and your messages.

Thank you very much!

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India – Germany Joint Statement
January 12, 2026

At the invitation of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Federal Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, H.E. Mr. Friedrich Merz, paid an official visit to India from 12-13 January 2026. The Chancellor was accompanied by a high-level delegation including 23 leading German CEOs and industry leaders.

This was Chancellor Merz’s first official visit to India and his first visit to Asia as Federal Chancellor, reflecting the high priority Germany attaches to India as a key strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific. The visit followed the successful 7th India–Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations (IGC) held in New Delhi on 25 October 2024, and comes at a high point in the journey of bilateral ties between the two countries, with completion of 25 years of India–Germany Strategic Partnership in 2025, and commemoration of 75 years of diplomatic relations in 2026. Both leaders sincerely appreciated the renewed momentum in bilateral engagement across government, business, civil society and academia that has played an instrumental role in advancing and deepening the Strategic Partnership.

Prime Minister Modi welcomed Chancellor Merz in Ahmedabad. The two Leaders paid floral tribute at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at Sabarmati Ashram, and participated in the famous Kite Festival. The two Leaders also addressed India-Germany CEOs Forum. Chancellor Merz will also visit Bangalore with engagements focusing on business and technological collaboration between India and Germany.

Prime Minister Modi and Chancellor Merz held restricted and delegation-level talks in Ahmedabad on 12 January 2026. They reaffirmed the shared democratic values, commitment to a rules-based international order, and mutual respect underpinning the Strategic Partnership. Both leaders reviewed bilateral relations and discussed regional and global developments.

Defence and Security

The Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening defence and security cooperation. They welcomed the outcomes of the High Defence Committee meeting held in New Delhi in November 2025 to further augment bilateral defence cooperation including institutionalised services Staff Talks and visits of Service Chiefs. The leaders endorsed the commitment of both sides to deepen military-to-military cooperation through joint exercises, training and exchanges of senior officials, and noted with satisfaction regular reciprocal port calls by the Naval ships of both countries. The leaders welcomed the establishment of a new Track 1.5 Foreign Policy and Security Dialogue between the two countries.

Prime Minister Modi welcomed Germany’s intent to participate in Naval Exercise MILAN, and 9th Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) Conclave of Chiefs in February 2026, Air Combat Exercise TARANG SHAKTI in September 2026, as well as Germany’s decision to deploy a Liaison Officer to the Information Fusion Centre–Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR). Both sides expressed satisfaction at ongoing cooperation between Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) for the Eurodrone MALE UAV programme, which will enable India to collaborate and harness advanced military technology and strengthen its strategic and defence ties with Europe.

The Leaders welcomed the signing of a Joint Declaration of Intent to develop a Defence Industrial Cooperation Roadmap to promote long-term industry-level collaboration, including technology partnerships, co-development and co-production of defence platforms and equipment. India welcomed Germany’s efforts to facilitate expeditious export clearances of defence equipment. The Leaders appreciated the growing interaction between Indian and German Defence businesses through Defence Roundtables/Seminars held in Berlin and New Delhi and welcomed regular exchanges in this area. Both Leaders lauded the continuing cooperation in submarines, obstacle avoidance system for helicopters and Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS), and looked forward to enhanced defence industrial collaboration by building a deepened relationship based on shared goals and complementarity of strength, namely skilled workforce and competitive costs from India and high technologies and investment from Germany.

In the context of cooperation on training and exchange, the two Leaders welcomed progress towards concluding a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Peacekeeping training between institutions of both countries, Reciprocal Logistics Support Agreement between armed forces, and knowledge exchange in the field of new Defence Technologies between DRDO and Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw).

The two leaders unequivocally and strongly condemned terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms and manifestations including cross border terrorism. They called for concerted international efforts to combat terrorism in a comprehensive and sustained manner, in accordance with the UN Charter and international law. They condemned in the strongest terms the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir on 22 April 2025 and the terror incident in Delhi on 10 November 2025. They committed to strengthen co-operation against terrorists and terrorist entities, including those listed in the UN 1267 Sanctions Committee. Both sides also called upon all countries to continue to work towards eliminating terrorist safe havens and infrastructure as well as to disrupt terrorist networks and financing in accordance with international law. The Leaders welcomed the ratification of the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty and noted the progress under the Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism.

Trade and Economy

The Leaders welcomed the sustained growth in bilateral trade and investment and noted that bilateral trade reached a record high in 2024, with the positive trend continuing through 2025. India-Germany bilateral trade in goods and services surpassed USD 50 billion in 2024, amounting to over 25% of India’s trade with EU. The leaders noted the strong two-way investments between India and Germany and the positive impacts of such investments in diversifying global supply chains. They reaffirmed their commitment to fully realising untapped economic potential, including through SMEs, startups, digitalization, AI, and innovation-driven enterprises. Prime Minister Modi invited German companies to invest / expand businesses in India to benefit from its strong economic growth, business-friendly environment, large highly-skilled workforce and immense opportunities to scale up operations. Chancellor Merz recommended Germany as an attractive location for investment by Indian companies.

Prime Minister Modi and Chancellor Merz reiterated their support for the conclusion of the India–EU Free Trade Agreement as a key outcome of the upcoming EU-India Summit, which will facilitate trade flows and inject further momentum into German-Indian economic relations.

The Leaders welcomed the signing of a Joint Declaration of Intent on strengthening the bilateral economic cooperation through the German-Indian CEO Forum, which will further promote business and industry collaboration, supported by the long-standing presence of German businesses in India and Indian businesses in Germany.

PM Modi and Chancellor Merz welcomed holding of the CEO forum, and interacted with leading CEOs and industry leaders of both sides to encourage more business collaboration and investment in areas such as technology, automotives, defence, shipbuilding, smart infrastructure, pharma, chemicals, bio-technology, industrial equipment engineering and energy.

Technology, Innovation, Science and Research

The Leaders welcomed progress in cooperation in critical and emerging technologies, including semiconductors, critical minerals, digitalisation, telecommunications, health and the bioeconomy; which consolidates the Innovation and Technology Partnership Roadmap.

They welcomed the strong willingness on both sides to establish an institutional dialogue across the semiconductor value chain through a new Joint Declaration of Intent on Semiconductor Ecosystem Partnership. They underlined the significance of enhanced institutional research and industrial collaboration between Indian and German semiconductor ecosystems. PM Modi welcomed opening of the Global Capability Centre (GCC) by German technology enterprise Infineon in GIFT city in March last year.

Recognizing the importance of resilient supply chains, the Leaders noted the progress on fostering collaboration in the field of critical minerals through a Joint Declaration of Intent (JDoI) on Critical Minerals cooperation. The two sides aim to explore opportunities in the areas of exploration of critical minerals, R&D, value addition through processing and recycling, as well as acquisition and development of critical mineral assets in both countries and third countries.

Regarding the Indo-German Digital Dialogue, the Leaders noted the finalization of its Work Plan for 2026–27 and emphasised the importance of collaboration on internet & data governance, AI, semiconductors and Industry 4.0, and emerging technologies. The Leaders acknowledged the signing of a JDoI on cooperation in the field of Telecommunications.

The leaders noted the extension of tenure of the Indo-German Science and Technology Centre (IGSTC) and expressed their satisfaction of IGSTC’s flagship role in promoting bilateral industry-academia strategic research in areas of advanced manufacturing, medical technologies, sustainable production, bioeconomy, waste to wealth initiatives, and artificial intelligence for sustainability. The leaders acknowledged the contribution of programmes under the IGSTC such as (2+2) industry-academia projects and Women Involvement in Science and Engineering Research (WISER).

Both Leaders welcomed the progress to establish Indo-German Centres of Excellence on Innovation (IG-CoE) focusing on Digital Convergence, Battery Technology, Green Transportation, and Affordable Healthcare. The Leaders expressed their appreciation on initiation of a bilateral cooperation on Bioeconomy, to deliver transformative outcome in genomics, 3D bioprinting & biomanfacturing. The Leaders also appreciated the high-level of engagement reflected in India’s participation in major science facilities at Facility for Antiproton and Ion Research (FAIR) and Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron (DESY), and expressed confidence in the continued cooperation at PETRA-III and the free-electron laser facilities at DESY.

The Leaders noted the enhanced dialogue in the area of Space between Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and German Space Agency (DLR) and welcomed the possibility to further expand the cooperation between the two agencies. Both sides agreed to enhance space industry level engagements.

The Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to foster evidence-based and people centric traditional medicine practices for affordable healthcare. They welcomed the MoU between the All- India Institute of Ayurveda and Charité University of Germany to promote scientific cooperation in traditional medicine.

Green and Sustainable Development Partnership/Renewable Energy

The leaders noted that 2026 marks half-time of the commitment period of the Green and Sustainable Development Partnership (GSDP), and expressed satisfaction at implementation of this flagship initiative between India and Germany, which has intensified bilateral cooperation on sustainable development and climate action and strengthened the strong commitment to the SDGs and the implementation of the Paris Agreement. Out of German government’s total commitment of 10 billion euros until 2030, mostly as concessional loans, approximately 5 billion euros have already been used or earmarked since 2022 for projects on climate mitigation and adaptation, renewable energy, sustainable urban development, green urban mobility, natural resource management, forestry, biodiversity, agroecology, circular economy and skilling. In that way, Indo-German collaboration under GSDP has contributed to Government of India’s flagship programmes and projects such as PM e-Bus Sewa, the Solar Rooftop Programme, the National Green Hydrogen Mission, Ahmedabad, Surat and Bangalore Metro Rail Projects, the Water Vision 2047 as well as for, climate-resilient urban infrastructure in Tamil Nadu, battery storage project in West Bengal, the new Indo-German collaboration in the area of agro-photovoltaic and financing for public financial institutions to expand renewable energy.

The Leaders reaffirmed the importance of mobilising finance and investment for renewable energy and welcomed the joint efforts under the India-Germany Platform for Investments in Renewable Energy Worldwide, such as the launch of joint working groups on solar energy manufacturing and wind energy in October 2025, as well as the newly established Joint Working Group on Battery Energy Storage Solutions. These joint working groups will deepen bilateral collaboration in technology, standards, regulation and supply chain resilience for renewable energy, and foster exchange and investments of companies from India and Germany.

The Leaders expressed satisfaction at the ongoing cooperation on Green Hydrogen, including work under the joint roadmap within the Indo-German Energy Forum, and underscored the need to align India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission and Germany’s National Hydrogen Strategy through deeper technological, commercial and regulatory collaboration, as well as strengthened business-to-business linkages. To further advance cooperation on developing hydrogen regulations and standards in India, the Leaders welcomed the signing of the MoU between the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) and the German Technical and Scientific Association for Gas and Water Industries (DVGW). They also welcomed the signing of one of the largest Offtake Agreement under India's National Green hydrogen Mission, for supply of Green Ammonia from AM Green to Uniper Global Commodities.The Leaders welcomed the progress which has so far been made by committed stakeholders in the private sector, in particular a recently signed binding large-scale offtake agreement for Indian-produced green ammonia.

The leaders expressed satisfaction at the outcomes of Triangular Development Cooperation (TDC) projects in Africa and Latin America and reaffirmed the commitment of both sides to mobilizing complementary strengths and capabilities for supporting sustainable and inclusive development in third countries. They welcomed the decision to scale up TDC projects in Ghana, Cameroon and Malawi.

Indo-Pacific, Connectivity and Global Issues

The Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, respect for international law including UNCLOS, and announced a new bilateral Indo-Pacific consultation mechanism. India welcomed Germany’s continued and growing engagement in the region, including activities under the Capacity Building and Resource Sharing pillar of the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) co-led by India and Germany.

Reaffirming their strong support to India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), the leaders emphasized its transformational potential in reshaping and promoting global commerce, connectivity and prosperity. In this context, they look forward to the first IMEC ministerial meeting to take concrete steps for advancing this initiative.

India and Germany reiterated the urgent need for comprehensive reforms of the UN Security Council, through the expansion of permanent and non-permanent categories of membership to reflect contemporary realities. In this regard, the two countries called for moving forward towards commencing text-based negotiations at the IGN.

The two leaders reiterated their concern over the ongoing war in Ukraine, which continues to cause immense human suffering and negative global consequences. They expressed support for efforts to achieve a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine in accordance with international law and the principles of the UN Charter.

The two leaders welcomed the Gaza Peace Plan and noted the adoption of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2803 of 17 November 2025 as a step forward to end the conflict in Gaza. They encouraged all parties to implement this resolution in its entirety. They underlined the need for unhindered and at scale delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza as well as unimpeded access for humanitarian organizations. They reaffirmed their readiness to support efforts towards just and durable peace and reiterated their call for a just, lasting and comprehensive resolution of the conflict in the Middle East in the form of a negotiated Two State Solution.

The Leaders underscored the urgent need for accelerated global action on climate change and welcomed the UNFCCC process. They highlighted the significance of the Paris Agreement and reaffirmation of COP 30 in Belém and the decisions taken under it in recent years, especially to create a Just Transition Mechanism and Technology Implementation Programme and look forward to the Global Stocktake. They called for significantly enhanced climate action and increasing efforts in the areas of climate finance and technology transfer to support developing countries in a just transition to green and sustainable energy systems and economies and in adapting to the increasing impacts of climate change. They emphasized the potential of well-designed climate action for economic development and poverty reduction and the importance of scaling up climate finance by all actors for shaping and accelerating the transition along national and cross-border value chains. They also recognized the threats by natural disasters and severe weather events as well as the implications arising from climate change, environmental degradation and biodiversity loss for security.

They agreed to strengthen cooperation in addressing global health challenges, including pandemic preparedness and response, combating antimicrobial resistance, and ensuring equitable access to affordable healthcare and medicines.

Education, Skilling, Mobility and Culture

Both leaders reaffirmed that strong people-to-people ties constitute a vital pillar of the Strategic Partnership and welcomed growing exchanges of students, researchers, skilled professionals, artists, and tourists. They recognized the valuable contribution of the Indian community to Germany's economy, innovation and cultural life, while underscoring the importance of expanded cooperation in education, research, vocational training, culture and youth exchanges to foster mutual understanding. PM Modi thanked Chancellor Merz for the announcement of the visa free transit facility for Indian passport holders for transiting through Germany which will not only facilitate and ease travel of Indian nationals, but will further intensify people to people links. Both sides expressed willingness to further strengthen legal mobility and strengthen cooperation on return of persons required to leave the country and in the fight against irregular migration, human trafficking and document and visa fraud[ by fully implementing the provisions of the Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement (MMPA).

The Leaders noted the growing number of Indian students in Germany, as well as the expanding network of joint and dual degree programmes, collaborative research and institutional partnerships in higher education. The deepening exchanges are also reflected in projects designed to support Indian students’ and graduates’ job market integration in Germany. They welcomed the institutional linkages between Indian Institutes of Technology and Technical Universities in Germany. They welcomed the creation of an Indo-German Comprehensive Roadmap on Higher Education to deepen institutional linkages. PM Modi invited leading German universities to open campuses in India under the New Education Policy.

The Leaders expressed satisfaction at the ongoing cooperation in skilled migration under the Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement. In line with this commitment and the German skilled labour strategy both countries aim to facilitate the mobility of skilled workers in a manner that benefits all parties while safeguarding against exploitation and ensuring compliance with international labour standards. The Leaders welcomed the signing of the JDI on Global Skills Partnership, which focuses on creating an ethical and sustainable framework for skilled mobility, particularly to address Germany’s growing demand for healthcare professionals, while safeguarding the rights and welfare of workers. The Leaders also welcomed the signing of the JDI to establish an Indo-German Centre of Excellence for Skilling in Renewable Energy, which will strengthen cooperation in curriculum development for the Indian and German job market, cooperation with German and Indian Industry and training of trainers in the renewable energy sector. In this context, both sides remain committed to the goal of expanding the teaching of the German language in India, including in secondary schools, universities and vocational education centers.

India and Germany share strong historical and cultural connections. The leaders welcomed the MoU between the German Maritime Museum - Leibniz Institute for Maritime History (DSM), Bremerhaven, and the National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal, which will deepen cooperation on maritime heritage and showcase shared elements of maritime history. In this context, there is renewed interest in museum collaborations. The leaders welcomed the finalization of the JDoI on Cooperation in Sport, which will strengthen collaboration inter alia in athlete training, sports governance, integrity and athletes' rights, as well as research in sport science.

Chancellor Merz thanked Prime Minister Modi for the warm hospitality extended to him and his delegation. Both Leaders agreed that the next India–Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations will be held in Germany later in 2026 and reaffirmed their shared commitment to further deepening the Strategic Partnership.