Guwahati, 27 September (HS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday highlighted Assam’s efforts to address human-elephant conflict and conserve the endangered pygmy hog during the 138th episode of his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’.

The programme covered a range of issues, including surgical strikes, India’s zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism, the reconstruction of the Somnath temple, cleanliness, Census 2026 and the ongoing anti-drug campaign.

According to a press statement issued by Assam BJP media panelist Amal Narayan Patowary, Modi referred to the Sonai-Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam, saying it was once a habitat for elephants. He said elephants had moved away after human encroachment in the forest area, but returned after the land was freed from encroachment.

The Prime Minister also highlighted Assam’s conservation efforts for the pygmy hog, described as one of the world’s rarest mammals and once facing the threat of extinction. According to the statement, he said the species’ population has now risen to more than 190 following conservation measures undertaken in Assam.

Modi also recalled the contribution and sacrifices of former Vishwa Hindu Parishad working president Ashok Singhal, born in 1924, including his role in the Ram temple movement.

Referring to Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary on October 2, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of implementing Gandhi’s vision of cleanliness in practice as a way of paying true tribute to him.

He also said that the first phase of Census 2026 had covered 320 million people, according to the statement. Modi further referred to the nationwide anti-drug campaign, which aims to raise awareness through various programmes and will continue for 100 weeks.

Meanwhile, the Assam BJP said that ‘Mann Ki Baat’ was listened to collectively by lakhs of party workers at more than 25,000 booths across 433 mandals under 39 organisational districts in the state.

Assam BJP president and MP Dilip Saikia also listened to the programme with local residents at Booth No. 183 in the Sipajhar Assembly constituency.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash