New Delhi, 14 January (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed Pongal celebrations in New Delhi today, Wednesday, extending greetings in Tamil and proclaiming that Pongal has evolved into a global festival. He noted that Tamil communities and admirers of Tamil culture worldwide celebrate it with great enthusiasm, adding that he counts himself among them and feels fortunate to join the festivities.

The Prime Minister described Pongal as a delightful aspect of Tamil life, symbolizing gratitude for farmers' toil, the earth, and the sun, while fostering balance among nature, family, and society. He observed that various parts of India are currently immersed in Lohri, Makar Sankranti, Magh Bihu, and other festivals, extending heartfelt Pongal wishes to Tamil brothers and sisters in India and abroad, along with greetings for all related celebrations.

PM Modi expressed joy over participating in Tamil cultural programs last year, including prayers at the thousand-year-old Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple in Tamil Nadu. He recalled feeling deeply connected to cultural unity during the Kashi Tamil Sangamam in Varanasi and witnessing Tamil history's grandeur while inaugurating the Pamban Bridge in Rameswaram.

Emphasizing that Tamil culture represents a shared heritage of the entire nation—and indeed all humanity—he stated that festivals like Pongal bolster the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat spirit.

Highlighting global crop-related festivals, the Prime Minister remarked that in Tamil culture, the farmer stands as the foundation of life, with the Thirukkural offering detailed insights into agriculture and farmers' importance. He affirmed farmers as robust partners in nation-building, whose efforts invigorate the Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign, while the Union Government remains committed to their empowerment.

Pongal, PM Modi said, inspires transforming respect for nature into a lifestyle, not mere words, given the earth's generosity demands its preservation. He stressed maintaining healthy soil, conserving water, and using resources judiciously for future generations through initiatives like Mission LiFE, Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam, and Amrit Sarovar.

Reiterating the government's push for sustainable, eco-friendly agriculture, he pointed to upcoming emphases on sustainable practices, water management via Per Drop, More Crop, natural farming, agritech, and value addition—areas where youth innovate boldly.

The Prime Minister recalled attending a Tamil Nadu natural farming conference months ago, praising young participants who abandoned professional lives for fieldwork. He urged his young Tamil friends in agriculture to amplify this sustainable farming revolution, aiming for plates full, pockets full, and earth safe.

Describing Tamil culture as one of the world's most ancient living civilizations, Shri Modi noted it bridges centuries, drawing lessons from history to guide the present toward the future. Inspired by this, modern India draws strength from roots to embrace new possibilities, fueled by a faith linking culture, land respect, and future confidence—evident on this sacred Pongal occasion. He concluded with Tamil greetings, renewed best wishes, and gratitude.

Tamil culture is one of the most ancient living civilizations in the world; Pongal celebrates vibrant Tamil culture and our bond with nature, bringing prosperity and happiness.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar