STATE TIMES NEWS
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday asked people to be vigilant and take precautions against COVID-19, as he noted that the virus is spreading in many countries.
In his last ‘Mann ki Baat’ broadcast of the year, Modi said many people are on a vacation or will go on one during Christmas and New Year and urged them to follow protocols like wearing masks and washing hands to ensure that their enjoyment is not affected adversely by the virus.
The central government has stepped up measures against the virus, with the cases on a rise, especially in China where the lifting of zero-Covid policy has caused a spread of the pandemic.
Modi has also chaired meetings and his government has written to the states to put in place adequate measures to deal with any spurt.
The prime minister said the outgoing year, 2022, has been inspirational to India in many ways.
India carved out a special place for itself in the world with its incredible vaccination doses of over 220 crore and the country becoming the fifth largest global economy, he said.
The country also achieved the “magical” export figure of USD 400 billion (one billion=100 crore) and made new strides in space, defence and drone sectors, he added and also highlighted its achievements in sports.
Prime Minister extended greetings to citizens on the occasion of New Year saying that the next edition of the ‘Mann Ki Baat’ will be broadcast in 2023. He said, “We will now meet in 2023. I extend my greetings on the occasion of New Year celebrations. Next year will also be special for India and we have to take the country to new heights.”
Talking about the 100th episode of Mann Ki Baat, PM said, “My dear countrymen, now we are slowly moving towards the unprecedented milestone of the 100th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’. I have received letters from many countrymen, in which they have expressed great inquisitiveness about the 100th episode. I would like it if you send me your suggestions for what we should talk about in the 100th episode and how to make it special.”
PM also talked about a Karnataka couple who are making products from betelnut fiber. He said, “Friends, a couple from Karnataka is sending many unique products made from betelnut fiber to the international market. This is a couple from Shivamogga in Karnataka – Shriman Suresh and his wife Shrimati Maithili. These people are making many decorative things ranging from trays, plates and handbags from betel nut fiber. Chappals made of this fiber are also being liked a lot today. Today their products are being sold in London and other markets of Europe.”