The Dark Period: Prime Minister Modi Reflects on India’s Imposition of Emergency in the 70s

18-06-2023 :  In his monthly radio show ‘Mann Ki Baat,’ Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed various topics, including the dark period of Emergency in India’s history, the recent cyclone in Kutch, disaster management, water conservation, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s governance, tuberculosis eradication, International Yoga Day, and the Miyawaki technique for afforestation.

Prime Minister Modi began by acknowledging the imposition of the Emergency in India in 1975 as a dark period in the country’s history. He highlighted the opposition faced by millions of people during that time, emphasizing the torture inflicted upon supporters of democracy. He mentioned a new book on the Emergency that contains case studies and pictures, which he believed would help people understand the importance of democracy and the crimes that endanger the freedom of the country.

The Prime Minister also addressed the recent cyclone, named Biparjoy, that caused significant destruction in the Kutch district. He praised the courage and preparedness of the people in facing the cyclone, highlighting how Kutch, which was once considered unable to recover from a devastating earthquake two decades ago, is now one of the fastest developing districts in the country. He expressed confidence in the resilience of the people of Kutch to overcome the challenges posed by the cyclone.

Modi then shifted the focus to India’s disaster management capacity, calling it an example to the world. While acknowledging that natural calamities are beyond human control, he emphasized the strength of India’s disaster management efforts, which have developed over the years. He commended the people of Kutch for their courage and preparedness in dealing with the cyclone.

Water conservation efforts were another topic discussed by the Prime Minister. He highlighted the collective efforts of the people in Hapur district, Uttar Pradesh, who revived an extinct river. He emphasized the emotional and cultural significance of rivers, canals, and lakes, stating that they are not merely water sources but also repositories of life’s myriad hues and emotions.

The Prime Minister stressed the importance of nature conservation in combating natural calamities, particularly during the monsoon season. He mentioned the ‘Catch the Rain’ campaign, which involves collective efforts from the country to conserve water during the monsoon.

In commemoration of the 350th coronation anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Modi praised his bravery and mentioned that there is much to learn from his governance and management skills.

The issue of tuberculosis (TB) eradication was also addressed. The Prime Minister stated that India has set a target to eradicate TB by 2025. He highlighted the Ni-kshay Mitra initiative, where thousands of people in rural areas are adopting TB patients, demonstrating the strength and participation of the Indian community in achieving this goal.

Prime Minister Modi expressed his anticipation for International Yoga Day, stating that people around the world are eagerly waiting for the event. This year’s theme, ‘Yoga For Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (Yoga for the welfare of all in the form of ‘One World-One Family’), signifies the unifying spirit of yoga. He mentioned that yoga-related programs would be organized throughout the country and shared his excitement about participating in the Yoga Day program at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

Lastly, Modi spoke about the Miyawaki technique, a Japanese afforestation method, which can transform infertile soil into green areas. He noted that Miyawaki forests spread rapidly and become biodiversity spots within a few decades, and this technique is gaining popularity in different parts of India.

Prime Minister Modi’s monthly radio show covered various topics, ranging from the dark period of Emergency in India’s history to disaster management, water conservation, tuberculosis eradication, International Yoga Day, and afforestation using the Miyawaki technique.