Modi lauds water conservation efforts by countrymen on Mann Ki Baat

Modi touched upon several issues in his address while giving much emphasis on the need for water conservation.

He said the issue has become a matter of human interest and people have taken up effective endeavour across the country.

"People have shared information on traditional methods. The media has embarked upon quite a few innovative campaigns. Be it the Government or NGOs, something or the other is being carried out on a war footing. Witnessing the might of the collective is in itself heartwarming and satisfying," said Modi.

Sharing an instance, Modi said: "A case in point is village Aara Keram under the Ormanjhi block, not very far from Ranchi in Jharkhand. The fervour and zeal displayed by villagers there towards water conservation has turned out to be exemplary for one and all. The rural folk donated sweat, toiling collectively, to change the course of a mountain spring. It was a purely indigenous, home grown method. This has led to not only stopping soil erosion and prevention of crop damage, but also facilitated effective irrigation of fields."

Modi informed that in Haryana, crops that require meagre water are being encouraged.

"Farmers thus are saved from suffering losses. I specially congratulate the Haryana Government for establishing a connect with the farmers to wean them away from conventional modes of farming towards crops that do not require much water," said he.

Modi also lauded Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) scientists over the launch of  Chandrayaan 2, the country's second lunar mission to the little-explored south pole of the Moon.

"Chandrayaan II is a mission that is special on many counts. It will lead to a better understanding of the Moon on our part. We will be able to gather detailed information and knowledge. But if you ask me what the two greatest lessons I have received from Chandrayaan II, I shall say they are Faith and Fearlessness."

"We should trust our talents and capacities; we should have faith in them. You will be glad to know that Chandrayaan II is INDIAN to the core. It is thoroughly Indian in heart and spirit. It is completely a swadeshi, home grown mission," said he.

"This mission has proved beyond doubt, once again, that when it comes to attempting an endeavour in new age, cutting edge areas, with innovative zeal, our scientists are second to none. They are the best… they are world class." added Modi.

The Prime Minister also informed the students about "a very interesting competition."

He invited young boys and girls to a quiz competition regarding space where India’s Space Mission, Science and Technology will be the salient features.

"For example, How is a rocket launched, how is a satellite placed in orbit, what information do we gather from a satellite, what is A-Sat… and many more of these. The details of this competition will be available on the Mygov website," Modi shared.