PM witnesses signing of the historic agreement between Government of India and NSCN
Naga courage and commitment are legendary. Equally, they represent highest levels of humanism: PM
Peace, security, economic transformation of North East is amongst my highest priorities: PM Modi
Shri Rajnath Singhji, Home Minister
Shri Muivah and all senior leaders of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland.
My warm greetings to all those present here today on this historic occasion!
I wish that Shri Isak Swu, who played a leading role in reaching this agreement, was present today. He could not be here because of poor health. I wish him speedy recovery. Just as his contribution to this agreement has been huge, his guidance will remain crucial in the times ahead.
The Naga political issue had lingered for six decades, taking a huge toll on generations of our people.
I sincerely thank Shri Isak Swu, Shri Muivah and other Naga leaders for their wisdom and courage, for their efforts and cooperation, which has resulted in this historic agreement.
I have the deepest admiration for the great Naga people for their extraordinary support to the peace efforts. I compliment the National Socialist Council of Nagaland for maintaining the ceasefire agreement for nearly two decades, with a sense of honour that defines the great Naga people.
My relationship with the North East has been deep. I have travelled to Nagaland on many occasions. I have been deeply impressed by the rich and diverse culture and the unique way of life of the Naga people. It makes not only our nation, but also the world a more beautiful place.
The Naga courage and commitment are legendary. Equally, they represent the highest levels of humanism. Their system of village administration and grass-root democracy should be an inspiration for the rest of the country.
The respect for the infirm and elders, the status of women in society, sensitivity to Mother Nature, and the emphasis on social equality is a natural way of Naga life. These are values that should constitute the foundation of the society that we all seek.
Unfortunately, the Naga problem has taken so long to resolve because we did not understand each other. It is a legacy of the British Rule. The colonial rulers had, by design, kept the Nagas isolated and insulated. They propagated terrible myths about Nagas in the rest of the country. They deliberately suppressed the reality that the Nagas were an extremely evolved society. They also spread negative ideas about the rest of India amongst Naga people. This was part of the well known policy of divide and rule of the colonial rulers.
It is one of the tragedies of Independent India that we have lived with this legacy. There were not many like Mahatma Gandhi, who loved the Naga people and was sensitive to their sentiments. We have continued to look at each other through the prism of false perceptions and old prejudices.
The result was that connectivity between Nagaland and the rest of India remained weak across this divide. Economic development and progress in Nagaland remained modest; and, durable peace was elusive.
Since becoming Prime Minister last year, peace, security and economic transformation of North East has been amongst my highest priorities. It is also at the heart of my foreign policy, especially the ‘Act East’ Policy.
I have been deeply concerned about resolving the Naga issue. Soon after entering office, I appointed an interlocutor for talks with the Naga leaders, who not only understood the Naga people as also their aspirations and expectations, but has great affection and respect for them.
Given the importance of this initiative, I asked my office to supervise these talks; and I personally kept in touch with the progress. I want to especially thank my senior colleague, Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singhji, whose support and advice was invaluable in bringing us here today.
Today’s agreement is a shining example of what we can achieve when we deal with each other in a spirit of equality and respect, trust and confidence; when we seek to understand concerns and try to address aspirations; when we leave the path of dispute and take the high road of dialogue. It is a lesson and an inspiration in our troubled world.
Today, we mark not merely the end of a problem, but the beginning of a new future. We will not only try to heal wounds and resolve problems, but also be your partner as you restore your pride and prestige.
Today, to the leaders and the people of Nagaland, I say this: You will not only build a bright future for Nagaland, but your talents, traditions and efforts will also contribute to making the nation stronger, more secure, more inclusive and more prosperous. You are also the guardians of our eastern frontiers and our gateway to the world beyond.
Equally, the rest of the nation will join you in shaping a future of dignity, opportunity and prosperity for the Naga people.
Today, as you begin a new glorious chapter with a sense of pride, self-confidence and self-respect, I join the nation in saluting you and conveying our good wishes to the Naga people.
Today, on ‘Kargil Vijay Diwas’, I respectfully bow to all the brave martyrs and soldiers: PM Modi
A special ‘Shaurya Vijay Yatra’ has been organised this year with the message - "One Ride, One Nation, One Salute": PM Modi
Whether it is defence production, defence exports, or political cooperation with friendly nations - India is continuously scaling new heights: PM Modi
The message of ‘Catch The Rain’ is very simple: conserve the water right where and when the rain falls: PM Modi
Every drop saved today serves as the greatest asset for the future of coming generations: PM Modi
The Indian women's cricket team won its first-ever Test match at the Lord’s Stadium in London. This is a historic victory: PM Modi
Every Indian is filled with pride following the successful launch of 'Vikram-1' last Sunday: PM Modi
It is heartening to see the culture of Olympiads and Hackathons steadily growing in India: PM Modi
The initiative in Sitamarhi shows us that 'Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle' is no longer just a slogan but is becoming a part of our lives: PM Modi
Today, Manipur’s Loktak is shining not only on the country's map but also across the vast cosmos: PM Modi
I urge all of you to definitely buy at least one product or the other made of Khadi, handloom, or handicraft during the upcoming festive season: PM Modi
My dear countrymen,
Namaskar. There are certain days in our lives that do not require a calendar to be remembered. Today, the 26th of July, is one such date. Today is ‘Kargil Vijay Diwas’. This day fills us with pride. This day reminds us of the extraordinary courage of our brave soldiers. Towering peaks of Kargil, harsh weather, the challenge posed by the enemy—our soldiers faced every such circumstance, yet their spirit was greater than every challenge. They sacrificed their all for the defence of Maa Bharati. Today, on ‘Kargil Vijay Diwas’, I respectfully bow to all the brave martyrs and soldiers.
Friends,
The India of today not only remembers her heroes but also conveys their saga to the new generation. With this very sentiment, a special ‘Shaurya Vijay Yatra’ has been organized this year. Having started on the 14th of July from the National War Memorial in Delhi, this motorcycle rally will reach the Kargil War Memorial in Dras.
Its message is - "One Ride, One Nation, One Salute." This journey reminds us that the sacrifice made for the nation can never be forgotten.
Friends,
Today, alongside the courage of her soldiers, India is also continuously strengthening her technological capabilities. A few days ago, INS Mahendragiri was inducted into the Indian Navy. This modern warship has been designed and built in India itself. More than 75 percent of the materials used in it are indigenous. It is a symbol of the growing strength of an ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’. This very month, the DRDO also successfully tested the Pinaka Long-Range Guided Rocket. Behind this success lies the collective perseverance of our scientists and engineers. Only two-three days ago, the DRDO also successfully tested the Kusha missile.
Friends,
Whether it is defence production, defence exports, or political cooperation with friendly nations—India is continuously scaling new heights. Earlier this month, I was in Indonesia, where a major agreement regarding BrahMos and Astra missiles was concluded. Global confidence in India’s defence equipment and technology is growing.
This ‘Kargil Vijay Diwas’, let us pay tribute to our immortal martyrs and further strengthen our resolve to build a secure, capable, and self-reliant India.
My dear countrymen,
In the previous episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’, I spoke to you about the ‘Catch The Rain’ campaign. I had appealedthat this campaign to conserve every drop of rain be turned into a mass movement. The message of ‘Catch The Rain’ is very simple: conserve the water right where and when the rain falls. That is why a special nationwide campaign has been underway since the 4th of July. Under this initiative, fresh momentum is being given to rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, the rejuvenation of old water bodies, and tree plantation. I am delighted to see overwhelming participation from people everywhere - be it villages or cities, panchayats or social organizations.
At some places, silt is being removed from old ponds, while at others, wells and stepwells are being revived. Borewells no longer in use are now serving as channels for groundwater recharge.
Friends,
Around 1,500 ponds have been constructed in the Sidhi district of Madhya Pradesh. 'Amrit Sarovars' have been restoredin Narsinghpur. Significant water storage capacity has been developed in Nashik, Maharashtra. In Nandyal, Andhra Pradesh, all gram panchayats have joined this campaign, and old ponds have been made functional again. Our cities as well are not lagging behind either; encouraging results from this campaign are visible in Korba (Chhattisgarh), Bhubaneswar (Odisha), and Vizianagaram (Andhra Pradesh). Come, let us also take responsibility for a pond, well, or stepwell in our vicinity - save every drop of water. Every drop saved today serves as the greatest asset for the future of coming generations.My dear fellow citizens, the Commonwealth Games began in Glasgow, just a few days ago. Every Indian is constantly extending one’s best wishes to the Indian contingent.It is their wish that all players and athletes perform exceptionally well and win the hearts of the people.
Friends,
Our youth have achieved remarkable feats in sports recently. PV Sindhu has become the first Indian to win the Japan Open title in badminton; the entire nation is proud of this achievement of hers. The Indian women's cricket team also won its first-ever Test match at the Lords Stadium in London. This is a historic victory; our team won the match by a massive margin of 270 runs. But that is not all - in the long history of Lord’s, this was the first Test match played by a women's team. It was on this very ground that India won her first Cricket World Cup in 1983. Now, our 'Nari Shakti' has brought glory to the nation there.
Friends,
There are also small initiatives that hold great significance. I learned about one such sports-related initiative in South Chittoor, Ernakulam, Keralam. A school there has a Sanskrit club where a teacher, Abhilash ji, is popularizing Sanskrit in a unique way. This project has been named 'Aksharakanduk'; it explains Sanskrit letters in a simple manner by linking them to terms used in football. This makes learning enjoyable while also fostering a deeper connection between people and sports.
My dear countrymen,
Every Indian is filled with pride following the successful launch of 'Vikram-1' last Sunday. All of us Indians were witness to this historic moment for India's Space sector. It is India's first rocket developed by the private sector. Our young innovators achieved something that was once difficult to even imagine…they displayed remarkable skill, passion, and patience. For a long time, our Space sector remained closed to the private sector, denying many interested young people the opportunity to showcase their talent. Keeping the interests of the youth in mind, we opened up the space sector to private enterprise, and today, the world is witnessing the results.
Friends,
Our young friends are also bringing glory to India in the field of science. Science Olympiads are among the most important competitions in the world. A large number of students participate in these events. Olympiads in Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics were held just this month. The Indian contingent delivered a spectacular performance in these competitions. In the Physics Olympiad, all five of our students won gold medals, and India secured the top rank.
Over the past decade, students from our country have won either a gold or a silver medal in every Physics Olympiad. In the Chemistry Olympiad, too, all our students won gold medals. This has been our best performance so far. All our students also won medals in the Biology Olympiad, including a gold medal. On the other hand, in the Mathematics Olympiad, our students secured two gold and four silver medals. I am immensely proud of the nation's youth power. It is heartening to see the culture of Olympiads and Hackathons steadily growing in India. I am confident that more and more young people across the country will show interest at such forums and keep the flag of India flying high.
My dear countrymen,
When one possesses both talent and the passion to achieve something, every path becomes easy. A glimpse of that is evident in the efforts currently being made regarding Kashmir's traditional 'Vagu' mat. It is crafted out of reeds and paddy straw. The tradition of making this mat dates back many years. The process begins with harvesting grass and reeds from the marshy regions of Kashmir. After drying them in the sun and sorting the materials, the hand-weaving process begins.
It takes approximately four days for two artisans to complete a single mat. This mat is both unique and eco-friendly. A major feature is that it provides coolness in the summer and warmth in the winter. While it used to be found in every Kashmiri household, its usage had declined over the last few years. Amidst that, Ghulam Hussain ji from Srinagar and his daughter, Tanzila ji, took a pledge. Both dedicated themselves to reviving the tradition of the 'Vagu' craft. Ghulam Hussain ji comes from a very humble background.He faced numerous challenges in this endeavour. However, his resolve to preserve ‘Vagu’ remained unflinched. And within no time, many people began joining this initiative. Ghulam Hussain ji significantly advanced this craft. He also received local government support for his mission.
Today, ‘Vagu’ is rapidly gaining popularity and reaching other parts of the country. I am immensely proud of everyone associated with this effort. Today, we are all emphasizing local products; we are moving forward with the mantra of ‘Vocal for Local.’ In this context, do consider making Kashmir’s ‘Vagu’ a part of your home as well.
Friends,
In our country, tea is not merely a beverage—it embodies a sense of togetherness. Whether it is the start of the day, a meeting with friends, or spending quality time with family, tea becomes an integral part of every occasion. In fact you are, well aware of my own bond with tea.
However, the tea I am bringing into discussion today has not only offered taste but has also infused the lives of many women with the fresh aroma of self-reliance. Women associated with a Self-Help Group in Lakhiwala village, Bijnor district, Uttar Pradesh, have created ‘Vidur Prerna Swadeshi Herbal Tea.’ It contains natural ingredients such as lemongrass, Giloy, Mulethi (licorice), Tulsi, raw turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, and fennel seeds. Due to its unique taste and qualities, this teahas quickly carved a niche for itself among the people. This herbal tea has garnered immense appreciation at the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj and the International Food Festival in Delhi; even visitors from abroad have shown interest in it.
Friends,
The most inspiring aspect is how it all began. This entire venture started with an investment of just one lakh rupees. Today, the brand has reached major institutions across the country. This initiative demonstrates that when local knowledge, nature, and the self-confidence of women come together, even a small effort can initiate significant change.
My dear countrymen,
People across the country are fulfilling their responsibility towards nature through the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign. When society connects with this sentiment, beautiful and inspiring examples emerge. Friends, the incredible power of public participation was witnessed in Ahmedabad. In the Bhadaj area, over 3.5 lakh saplings were planted within a single hour, with more than 25,000 people joining the effort. School children, NCC cadets, volunteers, and ordinary citizens—everyone participated in this campaign. In the coming years, these saplings will grow into a dense urban forest. This achievement has been recorded in the Guinness Book of World Records.
Friends,
The remarkable resolve of the people was also evident in Uttar Pradesh under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, where over 35 crore saplings were planted in a single day - on the 12th of July. As a Member of Parliament representing a constituency in UP, this is a matter of special pride for me.
My dear countrymen,
Trees are not just for humans; they are also home to countless living creatures. After nearly 60 years, the Indian Grey Hornbill is once again making its abode in the Gir forests of Gujarat. This is the result of years of conservation and restoration efforts in Gir. The Hornbill is often referred to as the ‘farmer of the forest.’ They eat these fruits and disperse the seeds far and wide; from these very seeds, new trees grow in the forest. In this way, a single bird helps make the forest lush and green again. I would urge all of you to connect a special occasion in your lives with nature—plant a tree in your mother's name. A small sapling planted today can become a legacy of greenery, clean air, and a beautiful future for generations to come.
My dear countrymen,
We all know that plastic pollution poses a major challenge to the global environment today. Waste from single-use plastic continues to harm nature for years; therefore, proper disposal of plastic is crucial. Friends, a magnificent example of 'Waste to Wealth' has emerged from Sitamarhi in Bihar. Here, waste is being recycled to create attractive benches. About 40 kilograms of single-use plastic are consumed to make one bench. These benches are not only strong, durable, and comfortable but also eco-friendly. They are installed in government schools, parks, and public spaces.
This initiative is also raising awareness among people about environmental conservation. Both local bodies and the district administration play a vital role in this effort.That’s also generating local employment opportunities. This initiative in Sitamarhi shows us that 'Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle' is no longer just a slogan but is becoming a part of our lives.
Friends,
You might recall that in the last episode of 'Mann Ki Baat', I had spoken of 'Ganesh Utsav'. I had urged everyone to worship idols of Ganesha ji made from our country's own clay.
Instead of Ganesh ji made of POP or those imported from abroad, we should install Ganesh ji made from indigenous soil in our homes. Many people have sent me messages and shared their thoughts on this subject. People have told me that they have heeded my request.They have resolved to install idols of Ganesha ji made from local clay. People have written in to say that this topic was previously discussed in ‘Mann Ki Baat,’ and that it helped them take the right steps at the right time. I reiterate my appeal: this time, for Ganpati Puja, install an idol of Ganesha ji made from the soil of our own land in your home and worship it. This effort of yours will, in a way, be a form of worshipping nature itself.
My dear countrymen,
I will now tell you about a person who will make you feel very proud. He is someone actively working in the fields of science and innovation and gaining global recognition; yet, despite that, he remains deeply connected to his roots and never forgets to honour his homeland whenever the opportunity arises. That person is Dr. Ronaldo Laishramfrom Manipur. His name is Dr. Ronaldo, but professionally, he is an astrophysicist. He works in Japan and has been part of the team that discovered a massive cluster of young galaxies.
You might be wondering what exactly he has done. Well, he named this entire cluster the ‘LoktakProto-cluster,’ linking it to a beautiful lake in Manipur. Loktak is a vast freshwater lake. ‘Phumdis’,the floating islands of vegetation in Loktak Lake create a unique landscape; it appears as if small islands are floating in a vast ocean. Similarly, these young galaxies in the universe form a massive structure. Today, Manipur’s Loktak is shining not only on the country's map but also across the vast cosmos. This achievement is a source of pride for every Indian. It teaches our young friends that they can scale new heights while remaining connected to their traditions. These are roots that can also light up the world of stars.
My dear countrymen,
In just a few days - on the 7th of August - our country will celebrate ‘National Handloom Day’. On this occasion, we celebrate the skills and creativity of our weaver brothers and sisters. These friends of ours are carrying forward traditions that have been passed down through generations.
Friends,
Every handloom garment tells the story of a specific region, a community, and the countless people associated with it. These are the people who are proudly dedicated to preserving India’s cultural heritage.
Today, I urge you to honour our weaver friends by encouraging handloom crafts. Come, let us further strengthen the spirit of being ‘Vocal for Local’.
Friends,
The way handloom is being promoted in the country today is improving the lives of a large number of people. We see many examples of this, from Pochampally to Patna and from Kuthampally to Kutch. Today, there are many individuals and groups infusing new energy and identity into our glorious handloom tradition. Some are carrying forward the beautiful tradition of ‘Pochampally Ikat’, while others are engaging women weavers to create wool products. Some are preserving Keralam’s traditional ‘KasavuKala’. This is also providing employment to our mothers and sisters.
Friends,
Another subject I would particularly like to mention is ‘Khadi’. We all know that ‘Khadi’ was very dear to Mahatma Gandhi. During recent years, ‘Khadi’ has become quite popular. Its sales have increased six-fold over the last 12 years. This sales figure has now reached nearly ₹8,000 crore. I urge all of you to definitely buy at least one product or the other made of Khadi, handloom, or handicraft during the upcoming festive season.
My dear countrymen,
If you were asked how many types of musical instruments exist in India, you would likely be left wondering! That is because we possess a vast array of musical instruments and the traditions associated with them. One such instrument is the ‘Chongpreng’ from Tripura; it is quite popular among the tribal communities there. Made of bamboo, this instrument features three strings. It produces a melodious tune that bears resemblance to the *Sarod*. For some reasons, its popularity among the youth had begun to wane. Amid that, Suraj Kumar Debbarma ji resolved to revive its popularity. Today, his efforts are bearing fruit; he performs using the Chongpreng as well as other traditional instruments from the region. He has a deep fondness for Kokborok folk songs, Baul songs& Bengali folk music. Now, I would like to play a short clip for you; it is a piece of music that you will never forget.
Friends,
I am sure listening to thatmust have made you feel good. I am very proud of Debbarma ji; his efforts to popularize traditional music is truly commendable. I urge all of you to share information about traditional musical instruments found in your own vicinity on social media. Such efforts on your part will certainly connect others with traditional Indian music.
My dear countrymen,
Tomorrow, the 27th of July, marks the death anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam ji. Dr. Kalam’s personality embodied many inspiring facets, yet the role of a teacher was closest to his heart. He inspired children and the youth to dream big. Coincidentally, this week we will also celebrate the pious festival of ‘Guru Purnima’. Our parents are our first teachers, while school teachers impart the knowledge of letters and learning. Guru Purnima is an occasion to express gratitude towards all such mentors. I offer my respectful Pranaam to all the teachers and mentors across the country. Friends, in just a few weeks, we will celebrate the grand festival of our Independence. 15thAugust is a day of pride for every Indian. It is a day to remember the countless heroes who dedicated their all for the freedom of ‘Bharat Mata’.
It is because of their sacrifice and devotion that we hold the Tricolour in our hands today; this Tricolour embodies the ideals of our Constitution.
Friends,
Over the past few years, the ‘Har GharTiranga’ campaign has united the entire nation with a remarkable spirit. The celebration of the Tricolour is visible in every home and every street. This year too, we must carry forward the ‘Har GharTiranga’ campaign with great enthusiasm. We must display the Tricolour at our homes with the utmost respect.
Friends,
Every year before 15th of August, you send me myriad ideas and suggestions. This year as well, please do share your thoughts on MyGov. I look forward to your suggestions.
Friends,
That’s all for today’s ‘Mann Ki Baat’. We will meet again next month with stories of many new achievements and inspiring efforts by our countrymen; until then, I take leave of you. Thank you very much; Namaskar.
Kargil Vijay Diwas fills us with pride. This day reminds us of the extraordinary courage of our brave soldiers.#MannKiBaatpic.twitter.com/MgC4AcO4rX
From the successful launch of Vikram-1 to India's impressive performance in international science Olympiads, the country continues to make its mark in science and innovation.#MannKiBaatpic.twitter.com/8goaDrkqH3
Kashmir's traditional 'Wagoo' mat is making a comeback, thanks to the efforts of local artisans who are keeping this unique craft alive.#MannKiBaatpic.twitter.com/Ju8irHrcq1
Across the country, inspiring efforts are showing how people are coming together to protect nature and conserve biodiversity.#MannKiBaatpic.twitter.com/9JjdgMtNro
The growing popularity of handloom and Khadi is helping preserve India's timeless traditions while empowering weavers and local communities.#MannKiBaatpic.twitter.com/TaRy4PLy7O
An inspiring effort from Tripura is helping revive a traditional musical instrument and keeping India's vibrant folk music traditions alive.#MannKiBaatpic.twitter.com/gapYis53es
