Modi: Shukla’s return sparked curiosity on space among children

In his monthly radio address, Mann Ki Baat, the Prime Minister said the path to a developed India by 2047 runs through self reliance, and that the foundation of Atmanirbhar Bharat is being “vocal for local.”

Modi said that in recent weeks, across sports, science and culture, many developments have made Indians proud. “As soon as Shubhanshu landed safely on Earth, people rejoiced. The entire country felt proud,” he said. He recalled the national excitement after Chandrayaan 3’s successful lunar landing in August 2023, which, he added, sparked children’s interest in science and space.

Highlighting the INSPIRE MANAK Abhiyan, a campaign to promote innovation among schoolchildren, Modi said five students are selected from each school and each brings forth a new idea. “So far, lakhs of children have participated, and after Chandrayaan 3, the numbers have doubled,” he said.

On the startup ecosystem, the Prime Minister said that five years ago India had fewer than 50 space startups; today, there are more than 200. He added that science in 21st century India is advancing with renewed energy, citing recent medals by Indian students at the International Chemistry Olympiad, won by Devesh Pankaj, Sandeep Kuchi, Debdutt Priyadarshi and Ujjwal Kesari, and a strong performance at the International Mathematical Olympiad in Australia, where India secured three golds, two silvers and one bronze. He also noted that the Astronomy and Astrophysics Olympiad will be held in Mumbai next month, calling it the largest edition to date.

Modi welcomed Unesco’s recognition of 12 Maratha forts as World Heritage Sites, 11 in Maharashtra and one in Tamil Nadu, noting their historical significance. He mentioned Salher Fort, Shivneri Fort (the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj) and Khanderi Fort, built in the sea.

Reflecting on August as a month of revolution, Modi recalled 18 year old freedom fighter Khudiram Bose, who was executed on August 11, 1908, and paid tributes on the death anniversary of Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak (August 1). He also recalled the launch of the Quit India Movement on August 8, Independence Day on August 15, and ‘Partition Horrors Remembrance Day’ on August 14.

He further noted that the Swadeshi Movement began on August 7, 1905, giving new momentum to local products. To commemorate this, India observes National Handloom Day on August 7; this year marks its 10th anniversary. Modi said the textile and apparel market is growing rapidly, driven by village women, urban designers, elderly weavers and startup founders. More than 3,000 textile startups are currently active, he added.

“The path to a developed India in 2047 passes through self reliance, and the biggest basis of Atmanirbhar Bharat is ‘vocal for local.’ Buy and sell things made in India, products shaped by the sweat of Indians. This should be our resolve,” he said.

On the Swachh Bharat Mission, which completes 11 years, Modi said its strength and relevance remain undiminished. “Over these 11 years, Swachh Bharat has become a mass movement,” he said, adding that this year’s Swachh Survey saw participation from more than 4,500 cities and towns, with over 15 crore people taking part. “This is the voice of Swachh Bharat,” he said.