Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday praised two inspiring citizen-led initiatives from Uttar Pradesh and Goa that have contributed to environmental conservation and improved access to water, during the 134th episode of Mann Ki Baat.
The Prime Minister said such efforts demonstrate how ordinary citizens can bring meaningful change to their communities through determination and public service.
Basti Youth Lead River Cleanup Drive
PM Modi highlighted the work of Akash Gupta from Basti district in Uttar Pradesh, who launched a campaign to restore the Manorama River after witnessing its deteriorating condition.
PM Modi said, “Akash Gupta of Basti was deeply saddened by the sight of his village’s Manorama River. The river he had seen as clean and vibrant in his childhood. Over time, plastic had started accumulating in the river, and the filth was increasing.”
Rather than merely expressing concern, Gupta decided to take action and adopted the motto, “No complaints, a fresh start.”
The Prime Minister said Gupta mobilised his friends and began cleaning the river using basic tools such as nets, spades and baskets.
“All they had was a net, a spade, a basket, and their greatest strength: the determination to make a difference,” PM Modi said.
The volunteers regularly entered the river to remove water hyacinth, plastic waste and other garbage. PM Modi said they sometimes removed as much as 50 to 60 kilograms of waste in a single day.
“Gradually, that section of the Manorama River began to look clean again. The work also drew the attention of the people in the surroundings and awareness about cleanliness increased,” he said.
Retired Teacher Helps Bring Water to Goa Villages
The Prime Minister also praised the efforts of Balkrishna Aiya, a retired teacher from Goa who worked to address water scarcity in the Maddi-Tolap area.
PM Modi said Aiya remained committed to social service even after retirement and took up the challenge of improving water access for local residents.
“A similar inspiring story has emerged from Goa. Balkrishna Aiya is a retired teacher from Goa. But the zeal for social work is as strong, even today,” the Prime Minister said.
PM Modi said Aiya was deeply concerned about the region’s water shortages and actively worked towards finding a solution.
“Balkrishna played a key role in laying pipelines. This brought water to many homes. This was a huge relief for families who had to struggle daily for water,” he said.
Citizens Driving Community Change
The Prime Minister said both initiatives exemplify how individual determination and community participation can help address local challenges, whether related to environmental conservation or essential public services.
