New Delhi: In the 116th episode of his monthly radio program ‘Mann Ki Baat’, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday announced special plans to commemorate Swami Vivekananda’s 162nd birth anniversary. Speaking about the event, he said, “Next year marks the 162nd birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. This time it will be celebrated in a special manner. On January 11 and 12, at Delhi’s Bharat Mandapam, the ‘Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue’ will be organised.” He highlighted that around 2,000 youth from villages, districts, and states across the country would participate, aiming to inspire leadership and a sense of responsibility toward nation-building.
The Prime Minister also celebrated NCC Day during his address. “I myself have been an NCC cadet. Therefore, I can say with full confidence that the experience gained from this is invaluable for me,” he said. He praised the National Cadet Corps for instilling discipline, leadership, and service among young Indians. Encouraging youth from non-political backgrounds to join politics, he added, “To connect one lakh such youth, new youth, with politics, many special campaigns will be run in the country. ‘Developed India Young Leaders Dialogue’ is also one such effort.”
What PM Modi said on digital initiatives
PM Modi appreciated the efforts of people helping the elderly adapt to digital platforms. Highlighting an example, he mentioned Virendra from Lucknow, who assists senior citizens with submitting digital life certificates for pensions. “You know that as per the rules, all pensioners have to submit their Life Certificate once a year. Till 2014, the elderly had to visit banks themselves, causing much inconvenience. Now, with Digital Life Certificates, the process has become simple,” he explained.
The Prime Minister also lauded Mahesh from Bhopal, who teaches elderly residents how to use mobile phones for digital payments. “These elderly people had smartphones but no one to guide them on their correct use. Mahesh’s efforts have empowered them,” he noted.
Libraries as hubs of learning and creativity
PM Modi shared stories of libraries fostering education and creativity among children. In Chennai, a children’s library has become a hub of learning. Similarly, the Prayog Library in Gopalganj, Bihar, is gaining attention for its innovative approach. “These libraries are becoming centres of creativity, sparking curiosity and learning among young minds,” he said.
PM Modi encouraged collective efforts for a developed India. He urged citizens to contribute to society through similar impactful initiatives.
