Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in the 121st episode of 'Mann Ki Baat' on April 27, 2025, highlighted remarkable agricultural innovations by Indian farmers, showcasing how traditional boundaries in farming are being broken through determination and creativity.
He shared inspiring stories of farmers from different parts of the country venturing into new territories, growing crops once thought impossible in their regions.
Among these examples was Shail Teli from Bagalkot, Karnataka, who successfully grew apples in the plains where temperatures soar above 35 degrees Celsius. Traditionally associated with cold mountainous regions, apple cultivation in such a climate stand as a testament to the spirit of innovation and resilience among Indian farmers.
Similarly, saffron, once limited to Kashmir and small pockets of Himachal Pradesh, is now flourishing in the Sangla Valley of Kinnaur and even in Wayanad, Kerala, thanks to the adoption of advanced aeroponics techniques.
The Prime Minister also spoke about the success of litchi cultivation beyond its traditional zones. While litchi has generally been linked with Bihar, West Bengal, and Jharkhand, it is now being grown in Tamil Nadu and Rajasthan. Farmers like Thiru Veera Arasu from Kodaikanal and Jitendra Singh Ranawat from Rajasthan have turned their dreams into reality after years of dedication. Their achievements are inspiring nearby farmers to adopt new practices and diversify their crops.
Drawing from history, PM Modi recalled the Champaran Satyagraha of 1917, where Mahatma Gandhi fought against the British forcing indigo farming, an event that became a turning point in India's freedom struggle. He urged the youth to read Dr. Rajendra Prasad’s book "Satyagraha in Champaran" to better understand this important chapter of history.
PM Modi also highlighted the success of the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, under which over 140 crore trees have been planted nationwide within just one year. He also praised the transformation of Ahmedabad, where the planting of over 70 lakh trees has helped combat global warming, making the city greener and cooler.
Amidst these stories of hope, PM Modi expressed deep sorrow over the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, reaffirming the nation’s resolve to fight terrorism with unity and strength. He also paid tribute to the late Dr. K. Kasturirangan, a towering figure in India’s space achievements, and celebrated the 50-year journey since the launch of the Aryabhata satellite, emphasizing India's growing leadership in space exploration.
The Prime Minister mentioned the 'Sachet' mobile app developed by the NDMA, designed to alert people about natural calamities and provide crucial information. He closed his address with a message of pride in India's youth, whose passion for science, innovation, and service is shaping a brighter future for the nation.
