Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday highlighted India’s achievements in defence, self-reliance, environmental conservation and public participation while addressing the nation in the 135th edition of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat.
Referring to the country’s achievements in the first half of 2026, the Prime Minister said, “Half of the year 2026 is drawing to a close… In June as well, the nation has attained certain achievements that fill every citizen with pride. These successes are linked to the country’s security and self-reliance.”
Highlighting India’s growing indigenous defence capabilities, PM Modi referred to the induction of INS Dunagiri, INS Sanshodhak and INS Agray into the Indian Navy and said, “Everything—from the design to the manufacturing of these ships—is indigenous.” He also hailed the successful maiden flight of the first Made-in-India C-295 military transport aircraft, noting that 40 such aircraft are being manufactured in India. “This is providing new momentum to the MSME and aerospace sectors, raising employment opportunities, and strengthening the resolve for an Atmanirbhar Bharat,” he said.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the successful test of the indigenous Long-Range Land-Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM) developed jointly by DRDO laboratories and Indian industry partners. “From the seas to the skies, our India is becoming increasingly secure and self-reliant,” he said.
On the International Day of Yoga, PM Modi said Yoga events were organised at more than 2,500 locations across the world, while crores of people participated in programmes across India. Congratulating Indian athletes for topping the medal tally at the World Yogasana Championship in Ahmedabad with 114 medals, including 102 gold medals, he extended his best wishes to all the winners.
Referring to the prevailing situation in West Asia, the Prime Minister thanked citizens for responding positively to his appeal to conserve resources. He said many families had postponed foreign holidays, avoided buying gold, adopted carpooling and increased the use of public transport and natural fertilisers. “I am happy that we Indians are facing this global crisis together. I am confident that this very power of public participation will strengthen us and lead us to success,” he said.
PM Modi also urged citizens to spread awareness about the Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, saying that even a small premium can provide a significant financial safety net for families. He noted that more than 58 crore people have enrolled under the accident insurance scheme, while over 27 crore beneficiaries have joined the life insurance scheme.
Highlighting environmental conservation, the Prime Minister praised biologist Purnima Devi Barman and the women-led Hargila Army in Assam for protecting the endangered Hargila bird by challenging superstition through scientific awareness. He also appreciated the Nagaland Baby League and the Nagaland Women Futsal League for encouraging young talent in sports.
On education and technology, PM Modi lauded Nalanda University for reviving the ancient tradition of Shaastraarth and welcomed the launch of a B.Tech programme in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science by the Central Sanskrit University, saying it would help integrate modern technology with India’s traditional knowledge systems.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the efforts of Brahmakamal Dominicana in the Dominican Republic for promoting Vedic literature and Sanskrit chanting, and praised local communities in Meghalaya for preserving the state’s iconic living root bridges, for which India has sought UNESCO World Heritage recognition.
Ahead of Ganesh Utsav, PM Modi appealed to citizens to purchase clay idols made by local artisans instead of Plaster of Paris idols. “When we purchase idols from local artisans, we strengthen the resolve of being ‘Vocal for Local’,” he said.
Concluding the programme, the Prime Minister called upon citizens to continue contributing to nation-building through collective efforts and urged people to conserve every drop of rainwater by supporting the Catch the Rain campaign. “The greatest strength of our country lies in her people,” he said.
