The Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 123rd episode of his monthly radio programme, Mann Ki Baat, on Sunday touched upon several aspects on the exigencies of the emergency 50 years ago, how yoga is gaining popularity the world over, the indomitable spirit of individuals in India, the changing political landscape of the North-eastern parts of India and the general progress India is making.

On emergency

The Prime Minister slammed the then Congress government for atrocities on people, and said they should always be remembered as it inspires people to stay alert to keep the Constitution strong.

Emergency, he said not only murdered the Constitution but also made the judiciary their puppet.

His condemnation of the Congress for the Emergency-era excesses without naming the party of the then prime minister Indira Gandhi came amid an ongoing bitter war of words between the ruling BJP and opposition parties, which have claimed that an undeclared Emergency prevails under the Modi government.

Modi said people were tortured on a large scale during the Emergency for the 21-month period between 1975 and 1977. There are many examples which cannot be forgotten, he added.

He played bits of speeches of former prime minister Morarji Desai and Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and former deputy PM Jagjivan Ram related to the period.

George Fernandes was shackled, he noted and recalled that anyone could be arrested under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA) at that time.

Students were harassed and freedom of expression throttled, he added.

Thousands of people were arrested and subjected to inhuman treatment, but it is the strength of Indians that they did now bow and accept any compromise with democracy, he said.

People finally won, the Emergency was lifted and those who imposed it lost, he said.

Noting that the 50th anniversary of Emergency was commemorated recently as ‘Samvidhan Hatya Diwas’, he said those who fought against it must always be remembered.

On Yoga Day

Prime Minister Narendra Modi mentioned the International Yoga Day and said that millions across the country and the world took part in the celebrations.

PM Modi said, "On June 21, millions across the country and the world took part in the International Day of Yoga celebrations. It began 10 years ago. Over the past 10 years, every year his tradition has become grander than before. This indicates that more people are incorporating yoga into their lives."

Talking about the celebrations across the country, he mentioned states like Telangana, Jammu and Kashmir, and others in which people participated enthusiastically, including from the armed forces, tribal students, and divyang people.

"In Telangana, 3,000 divyang friends came together for a yoga camp. They showed how Yoga can be a powerful means of empowerment. Connecting Yoga with the resolve of clean Yamuna, people of Delhi performed Yoga on the river banks. In Jammy and Kashmir, at Chenab bridge, at the world's highest railway bridge. ITBP jawans at the Himalayas also performed at the snow-capped peaks, showcasing a blend of courage and spiritual discipline," he said.

"People of Gujarat, in Vadnagar also set a new record, when 2,121 people performed bhujangasanas (Cobra pose) together," he added. The PM also mentioned international participation, across Indian embassies and otherwise.

"New York, London, Tokyo, Paris, pictures of yoga were from every major place in the world. Every image conveyed a special message of peace, satability and balance. This year's theme was also special, Yoga for One Earth, for Health. This is not just a slogan, but a direction that resonates the feeling of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam," he added.

The Prime Minister said that the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra has resumed after a long time, marking a significant moment for devotees. He also said that the Amarnath Yatra is set to begin from July 3, enabling pilgrims to embark on this sacred journey once again. "My best wishes to those who are about to embark on these pilgrimages," he added.

India Trachoma-free country

“There was a time when Trachoma was common in many parts of India. We resolved to eliminate Trachoma. WHO has declared India Trachoma-free," said PM Modi.

Prime Minister Modi said, "I am delighted to share with you that WHO has declared India free of Trachoma, an eye disease. This is the success of our health workers. 'Jal Jeevan' Mission has contributed to this."

He further said that the International Labour Organisation has said over 64 per cent of the Indian population gets some form of social protection benefit, adding that over 95 crore Indians now benefit from some social security scheme, govt schemes reached less than 25 cr people in 2015.

"International Labour Organization (ILO) has released a major report stating that India's 64 per cent population definitely has access to social security. Nearly 95 crore people are benefitting from the social security schemes. This number was lower than 25 crores till 2015," said PM Modi.

Sindoor Forest of Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation

Highlighting several inspiring initiatives, PM Modi said that the Municipal Corporation in Ahmedabad has developed the Sindoor Forest, where Sindoor plants have been planted. This forest is dedicated to the bravehearts of Operation Sindoor, serving as a tribute to their valor. 

PM Modi also appreciated a resident of Pune, who, along with his entire family, dedicates every holiday to protecting forest life. They visit the forest, plant trees, and dig water pits, which has significantly improved the local environment, encouraging the return of birds to the area.

The Prime Minister mentioned India's space mission and praised Shubhanshu Shukla for his contribution, recognising his efforts in the field of science and innovation.

Lauds MP woman’s mushroom farming initiative

The PM hailed the efforts of Suma Uike of Bhajiyapar village in the Katangi development block of Balaghat who joined a self-help group, received training in mushroom farming and animal husbandry. After an increase in her income, she began thermal therapy and Didi Canteen initiatives.

Praises Meghalaya’s Eri silk

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma thanked Modi for highlighting Meghalaya's pride, a week after he gifted the PM the silk fabric woven by women of the North-eastern state.In his address, Modi highlighted the recent recognition of Meghalaya’s Eri silk with the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) tag, calling it "a proud moment not just for the state, but for the entire country."

"Eri Silk is not just a fabric; it is a heritage of Meghalaya, lovingly preserved and enriched over generations, especially by the Khasi community," Modi said, highlighting that the silk is in itself 'Ahimsa silk' where silkworms are not harmed in its production.

Sangma noted that global demand for such eco-conscious and ethically produced products is rising, calling Eri silk a "perfect product" for the international market.

Assam’s Bodoland is now identified with football prowess

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that Assam's Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), once known for conflicts, is now identified by the football prowess of its youth. Bodoland CEM Cup, which is underway in BTR, he maintained that it is not just a tournament, "it has become a celebration of unity and hope".

Over 3,700 teams and nearly 70,000 players, a large number of them girls, are participating in it, he noted.

"These numbers tell the story of the transformation in Bodoland. Bodoland is now shining brighter in the sports map of the country," he added.