This conversation took place during Modi’s monthly radio show, Mann Ki Baat, where he acknowledged the achievements of athletes who broke national records in various events at the recently held competition in Ranchi, Jharkhand.
During the broadcast, he mentioned that four national records were shattered in four different events. “Gurindervir Singh, Vishal TK, Tejaswin Shankar, Dev Meena, and Kuldeep Kumar have all set new records in their respective categories. I extend my heartiest congratulations to each of them,” he expressed.
“One event capturing everyone’s attention is the 100-metre race. Within just two days, the national record for men’s 100-metre was broken three times, achieved by Gurindervir Singh and Animesh Kujur,” he added.
The athletes shared insights about their journeys and experiences during the radio show.
“My interaction with Gurindervir Singh and Animesh Kujur was particularly special, highlighting the bright future of Indian athletics,” Modi stated.
In reference to a swimming club managed by Saji Valasheril in Aluva, Kerala, Modi noted that over 15,000 individuals, including those with disabilities, have learned to swim there.
“Saji ji has also imparted swimming skills to differently-abled children. However, this initiative stems from a deeper pain,” he remarked.
He explained that Saji initiated this program after a tragic boat accident some years ago, which claimed the lives of several students.
“This incident deeply affected Saji ji. He realized that if these children had known how to swim, many lives could have been saved, initiating his campaign,” he said.
Discussing the Chola-era copper plates returned by the Netherlands during his recent five-nation visit, Modi mentioned that he has been receiving inquiries from people both in India and abroad.
“There is considerable interest in these copper plates, so I would like to share some information about them today. They consist of 21 large and 3 small copper plates, primarily relating to King Rajendra Chola the First, fulfilling a vow made by his father, King Rajaraja Chola,” he revealed.
Modi highlighted that the plates discuss the donation of the village of Anaimangalam to a Buddhist monastery and record the achievements of the Chola dynasty.
“They illustrate the formidable maritime power of the Chola Empire and provide insights into their relations with Southeast Asian nations,” he noted.
The prime minister remarked that astronomy has captivated generations of Indians and emphasized that the Bangalore Astronomical Society has launched initiatives to popularize the subject in rural areas.
“Stargazing at night offers a mesmerizing experience. An organization called Astro Kerala holds night observation camps and workshops, where young people learn to create telescopes and navigate star maps.
“The Big Bang Astronomy Club in Rajkot has hosted numerous astronomy events across locations like the Gir forests and the Rann of Kutch,” he shared.
Modi also spoke about educator Girija Amma from Nagercoil, Tamil Nadu, who manages 15 schools, including the Jaigopal Garodia Hindu Vidyalaya in Chennai. He expressed that her patriotic spirit is an inspiration for all Indians.
“Motivated by Mann Ki Baat, she dedicated herself to supporting soldiers in the country, inspiring her students to contribute one rupee daily for the brave soldiers. This translates to each student collecting 365 rupees over a year, totaling about 40 lakh rupees,” he explained.
Girija Amma later presented a cheque for the entire sum. “This showcases her profound dedication to Mother India,” Modi stated.
The prime minister acknowledged that Chennai’s first Hindu school celebrated its 50th anniversary last year.
“The contribution of this school network to enhancing the country’s education and cultural pride is commendable. I congratulate everyone involved, especially the students who supported our courageous soldiers. Across every village and city in India, there are inspiring stories unfolding,” he added.
