New , 14 January (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to Tamil youth on the occasion of Pongal to embrace sustainable agriculture and play a leading role in environment-friendly farming practices. He emphasized that farming should be developed in such a way that it fills plates, fills pockets, and keeps the earth safe.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted nature conservation, water management, natural farming, agritech, and value addition as essential needs for the coming times, urging young people to advance in these areas with innovation.On Wednesday, he participated in a Pongal celebration at the residence of Union Minister L. Murugan in New Delhi.

During the event, he performed traditional rituals, served cows, and addressed the gathered attendees.In his speech, the Prime Minister described Pongal as a global festival, stating that it symbolizes gratitude toward farmers, the earth, and the sun, while conveying a message of balance among nature, family, and society. He asserted that Tamil culture is not only India's shared heritage but humanity's collective legacy, and festivals like Pongal strengthen the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat (One India, Superior India).

Referencing the Thirukkural's emphasis on the importance of agriculture and farmers, Prime Minister Modi declared that farmers are the sturdy pillars of nation-building, and their efforts are infusing new strength into the Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) campaign. He mentioned initiatives such as Mission LiFE, One Tree in the Name of Mother, Amrit Sarovar, and Parikshan Mein Virat (More Crop Per Drop), underscoring that conserving soil and water is vitally necessary for the next generation.

Prime Minister Modi praised the efforts of youth in Tamil Nadu engaged in natural farming and called upon Tamil youth to expand this sustainable farming movement further.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar