Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: In the 114th episode of his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’ on September 29, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the significance of water conservation and stressed the environmental efforts of the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign.
He began by reflecting on the recent heavy rains across the country, remarking on the vital role of water conservation.
“This rainy season reminds us how important it is to conserve water. The water saved now helps during periods of scarcity, and initiatives like Catch the Rain are crucial,” Modi stated.
The Prime Minister commended the efforts of women in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, where they revitalised the Ghurari River.
“In Bundelkhand, an area known for water scarcity, women from a self-help group, now known as Jal Saheli, created a check dam using sacks filled with sand. This simple yet effective solution revived the dying Ghurari River and solved the water issues of the area,” he shared.
In Raipura village, local women’s construction of a large pond significantly raised groundwater levels, enabling them to take up fish farming.
Another inspiring story from Khomp village, Chhatarpur, saw women revive a drying pond and use the silt to create a fruit forest on barren land. “These initiatives have not only increased crop yields but also contributed to water conservation,” he said.
On ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, Modi spoke about its success in fostering environmental conservation through community involvement.
“This campaign is an inspiring example of what can be achieved when strong resolve and collective participation come together. States like Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Telangana have all exceeded their targets, with Uttar Pradesh alone planting over 26 crore saplings,” he said.
He lauded individual efforts, such as that of K.N. Rajasekhar from Telangana, who committed to planting a tree every day, even after facing personal setbacks.
Artefacts returned
Reflecting on his recent visit to the US and the return of nearly 300 ancient artefacts that had been trafficked out of India, Modi said, “We are all very proud of our heritage. I always emphasise ‘Development as well as Heritage’. During my recent visit to the US, there has been considerable discussion about the return of our ancient artefacts. The US government has handed back approximately 300 artefacts to India. US President Biden personally showed me some of these items at his private residence in Delaware.”
The Prime Minister highlighted the diversity and antiquity of the returned artefacts, noting that they were made of various materials, including terracotta, stone, ivory, wood, copper, and bronze.
“Many of these artefacts are over 4,000 years old, with others dating back to the 19th century,” he said.
Among the returned items are terracotta plaques depicting gods and goddesses, statues of Jain Tirthankaras, as well as figures of Lord Buddha and Lord Krishna.
The Prime Minister lamented that many of these treasures had been smuggled out of the country illegally, describing it as “a serious crime” and “a form of destroying our heritage.”
“India is working with many other nations to bring back such artefacts. When we take pride in our heritage, the world respects it too. As a result, many countries are now returning what was taken from India,” Modi said.
