Man Ki Baat: Addressing Textile Waste Crisis
New Delhi, March 30 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the growing global challenge of textile waste in his latest ‘Mann Ki Baat’ program on Akashvani. He emphasized that textile waste has become a significant concern worldwide, with India ranking third in terms of textile waste generation. Expressing concern over the fact that less than one percent of textile waste is recycled into new clothing, he called for innovative solutions and sustainable practices.
PM Modi noted that the global trend of discarding old clothes quickly in favor of new purchases is contributing to the crisis. However, he lauded the efforts of Indian startups working on textile recovery and recycling initiatives. He also highlighted organizations empowering ragpickers and promoting sustainable fashion. These efforts include recycling old clothes and footwear for distribution to the needy, as well as repurposing textile waste into decorative items, handbags, stationery, and toys.
The Prime Minister praised Panipat in Haryana for emerging as a global hub for textile recycling, Bengaluru for its tech-driven solutions in textile waste management, and Tirupur in Tamil Nadu for its initiatives in wastewater treatment and renewable energy in textile production.
Man Ki Baat: Focus on Water Conservation
In addition to textile waste management, PM Modi addressed the crucial issue of water conservation. As summer approaches, he stressed the importance of water harvesting efforts in cities and villages. He mentioned the ongoing ‘Catch The Rain’ campaign and the ‘Jal Sanchay-Jan Bhagidari Abhiyan,’ which focus on community participation in water conservation. Over the past eight years, India has conserved 11 billion cubic meters of water through newly constructed recharge structures. He applauded the efforts of Gadag district in Karnataka, where locals revived a dried-up lake, setting an example for community-driven water conservation.
Man Ki Baat: Encouraging Students and Youth Engagement
PM Modi urged students to utilize their summer vacations constructively by picking up new hobbies, learning open-source software, or participating in volunteer activities. He encouraged schools and organizations to share summer activity programs using the hashtag #MyHolidays. He also introduced the MY-Bharat calendar, which includes study tours to Jan Aushadhi Kendras and participation in the Vibrant Village campaign.
Man Ki Baat: Celebrating Sports and Cultural Heritage
The Prime Minister lauded the achievements of para-athletes in the recently concluded Khelo India Para Games, where 18 national records were set, including 12 by women athletes. He praised Gold Medalist arm wrestler Joby Mathew for his resilience and dedication.
PM Modi also spoke about the rising popularity of indigenous sports and traditional martial arts, highlighting rapper Hanumankind’s song “Run It Up”, which incorporates Kalaripayattu, Gatka, and Thang-Ta.
Man Ki Baat: Promoting Yoga and Ayurveda
With the countdown to International Yoga Day under 100 days, PM Modi urged citizens to incorporate yoga into their daily routines. He emphasized the growing global curiosity about Yoga and Ayurveda, citing Chile as a country where Ayurveda is gaining rapid popularity. He commended the efforts of the group ‘Somos India’ for translating Yoga and Ayurveda materials into Spanish.
Man Ki Baat: Sustainability and Local Innovations
The Prime Minister also spoke about unique local enterprises, such as Mahua flower-based cookies produced by women in Madhya Pradesh and Telangana. Additionally, he praised the Krishna Kamal flowers around the Statue of Unity, which have become a tourist attraction.
Man Ki Baat: Festive Greetings and National Unity
PM Modi extended greetings to the nation on the occasion of Chaitra Navratri and the Indian New Year. He acknowledged diverse regional celebrations, including Ugadi, Gudi Padwa, Rongali Bihu, Poila Boishakh, and Navreh, emphasizing India’s unity in diversity.
The Prime Minister concluded by encouraging listeners to share their holiday experiences and conservation efforts, reinforcing his vision of a participative and sustainable India.