New Delhi, Oct. 25 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday urged people to prioritise products made by local artisans during festival shopping, linking consumer support to the vision of a self-reliant India, while attending an Indian Air Force air show over the Ganga in Varanasi. In his monthly radio programme, Mann Ki Baat, Modi spoke about expanding markets for Indian products, reviving traditional skills, restoring rivers and improving access to healthcare through technology. Earlier, he watched fighter jets and helicopters perform aerial manoeuvres at the three-day event organised to mark the 94th anniversary of the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Addressing listeners during Mann Ki Baat, Modi said purchasing locally made goods could strengthen artisans and advance the government's Vocal for Local campaign. He noted that Indian agricultural products were reaching international markets, citing makhana from Bihar being exported to Greece and arhar dal from Karnataka reaching the Maldives.
"Your purchases will boost their enthusiasm," he said, urging consumers to choose products crafted by local artisans while buying gifts and other items for their families during the festive season.
Modi also pointed to the role of packaging in attracting consumers, saying improved presentation could encourage people to explore unfamiliar products. He said greater attention was being given to packaging to help Indian goods appeal to buyers.
The prime minister also discussed efforts to preserve traditional livelihoods and promote sustainable farming. He cited the work of the Kheti Virasat Mission in Punjab's Malwa region, where an initiative called Nav-Trinjan is encouraging natural cotton cultivation. The initiative has also established a weaving school to pass traditional skills to younger generations.
In Uttarakhand's Tehri Garhwal district, villagers and the local administration have worked to revive the Heval river after declining water levels and the drying up of nearby natural springs raised concerns. Measures included rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge and extensive tree planting. "Today, these efforts have given the Heval river a new lease of life while also helping rejuvenate dozens of natural water sources," Modi said.
He also spoke about the reach of e-Sanjeevani, the telemedicine service that enables people to consult doctors remotely. Nearly 50 crore tele-consultations have been conducted through the platform, he said, describing the figure as evidence of technology's potential, doctors' commitment and public trust. The service, he added, reaches remote parts of the country.
Separately, Modi attended the Wings over Ganges air show at Namo Ghat in Varanasi, accompanied by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
The programme, which lasted more than an hour, featured the Sukhoi-30 MKI, indigenous Tejas and LCH Prachand, alongside Rafale, Mirage 2000, MiG-29 and Jaguar aircraft, transport planes and helicopters. The IAF's Surya Kiran aerobatic team performed coordinated manoeuvres, while the Sarang helicopter team demonstrated aerial formations and stunts. A formation of three Kiran aircraft flew in a V shape in the colours of the Tricolour, while Mi-17 helicopters carried the national flag during the Omkar formation.
Spectators waved national flags and chanted patriotic slogans as aircraft roared above the river. Large crowds also gathered along the route from the police lines to Namo Ghat to welcome Modi, with the event offering residents an opportunity to witness the IAF's operational capabilities at close quarters.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.