Raipur, October 2026: Chhattisgarh Women and Child Development Minister Laxmi Rajwade listened to the 139th episode of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s popular radio programme Mann Ki Baat along with elderly residents at a government old-age home in Manav Basti, Raipur, on Sunday.
During the programme, the Prime Minister addressed several issues of national importance, including women’s empowerment, cleanliness, the promotion of local products and the positive role of young people in nation-building.
Prime Minister Modi appreciated the contribution of women to natural and organic farming, highlighting their important role in protecting Mother Earth from the harmful effects of chemical-intensive agriculture.
He noted that the increasing participation of women in agriculture and livelihood activities was contributing not only to their economic empowerment but also to environmental conservation.
With Diwali and the festive season approaching, the Prime Minister appealed to citizens to purchase locally made products and promote the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative. He also urged people to maintain cleanliness during festivals and take steps to reduce pollution.
The programme also highlighted the positive contributions of Generation Z and young people, emphasising their potential to bring constructive change to society.
Describing Mann Ki Baat as a platform for public participation and engagement with the collective strength of the people, Modi said the programme provided him with an opportunity to connect with citizens across the country like a member of every family.
The messages conveyed through the programme encouraged public participation in initiatives related to women’s empowerment, environmental protection, cleanliness and the promotion of local businesses.
Minister Laxmi Rajwade’s participation alongside the elderly residents highlighted the importance of community engagement and ensuring that senior citizens remain connected with national developments and public initiatives.
The programme reiterated the importance of collective responsibility in building a cleaner, more sustainable and self-reliant India, while encouraging citizens to support local enterprises and recognise the contributions of women and young people to the country’s development.
