New Delhi, 28 December (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in the 129th and final episode of his monthly 'Mann Ki Baat' radio programme broadcast on Sunday, urged citizens to exercise caution with medications, emphasizing the need for proper guidance before consumption and mandatory doctor's advice for antibiotics.

Citing a recent Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) report, PM Modi highlighted that antibiotics are proving ineffective against diseases like pneumonia and urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to indiscriminate usage, appealing to the public to avoid self-prescribed drugs.

2025 Milestones and Youth Zeal

PM Modi commenced by reflecting on India's landmark 2025 achievements in national security (Operation Sindoor), sports (women's World Cup), and scientific innovation, which amplified the nation's global stature, alongside cultural pinnacles from Prayagraj Kumbh's commencement to Ayodhya Ram Temple's flag-hoisting finale, instilling nationwide pride.

Saluting youth fervour for nation-building, he announced his participation in the 'Young Leader Dialogue' on Swami Vivekananda's birth anniversary, January 12, and praised the Smart India Hackathon where students devised solutions for real-life challenges.

Cultural Roots and Regional Inspirations

Addressing technology's future amid rooted heritage,PM Modi spotlighted IISc Bengaluru's Gitanjali initiative—evolving from a music class into the campus's cultural heart blending classical and folk arts—and Dubai's Kannada classes preserving mother tongues for children.He lauded Manipur's Moirangthem Seth, who under 40 harnessed solar power for electricity in remote areas exemplifying 'where there's a will, there's a way,' and Senapati's Chokhone Krichena, transforming traditional farming into floriculture, empowering communities through market linkages.

PM Modi recounted Jammu and Kashmir's archaeological find of ancient Buddhist heritage at Jehanpura, Baramulla—images preserved in a French museum archive—and Andhra Pradesh's Narsapur lace craft, where generations of women showcased resilience, skill, and creativity.

Revisiting Tamil language's glory and connective power, he cited Fiji's efforts linking youth to Tamil and Kashi-Tamil Sangam emphasising language learning.Honouring unsung heroes, PM Modi remembered Odisha's Parvati Giri, who joined Quit India Movement at age 16, and concluded by promoting Gujarat's Kutch Rann Utsav for its cultural vibrancy, inviting tourism. No incidents marred the broadcast.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar