Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said the world is looking at India with great expectations, largely because of the country’s youth, who are driving development in science, technology, and digital innovation while also carrying forward India’s cultural roots.
Addressing the 129th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’, PM Modi said, “Today, the world is looking at India with great expectations. The biggest reason for this hope is our youth. In the field of science, our achievements, innovations, and technological advancements have impressed countries around the world.” He added that India’s youth have always had a passion for doing something new and remain equally aware and socially conscious.
He recalled the major and historic events that occurred in the country in 2025 and said that this year gave India “even greater self-confidence”, while adding that now the nation is ready to move forward in 2026 with new hopes and new resolutions. “From national security to the sports field, from science laboratories to the world’s biggest stages, India’s imprint was everywhere,” he said.
The Prime Minister said that India also took “giant leaps forward” in the field of space and science, citing Indian astronaut Shubanshu Shukla, who became the first Indian to reach the International Space Station, as an example.
He further mentioned that several initiatives related to environmental protection and wildlife conservation also marked 2025. He added that the number of cheetahs in India has also crossed 30.
“Faith, culture and India’s unique heritage were all seen together in 2025. The organisation of the Prayagraj Maha Kumbh at the beginning of the year astonished the entire world. At the end of the year, the flag-hoisting ceremony at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya filled every Indian with pride,” PM Modi said.
He lauded initiatives to promote the Tamil language in India and abroad, highlighting how children across regions are learning and taking pride in the world’s oldest language. He also lauded efforts of Kannadigas living in Dubai who were teaching their children the language.
PM Modi said that India’s traditional arts are empowering society and emerging as a major vehicle for people’s economic progress, citing inspiring examples from Andhra Pradesh and Manipur while highlighting the role of women-led initiative. “Our traditional arts are empowering society and becoming a major vehicle for people’s economic progress. The lace craft of Narasapuram district in Andhra Pradesh is gaining popularity across the country. This lace craft has been in the hands of women for generations. The women of the country have preserved it with great patience and meticulousness,” PM Modi said.
