Recalling Emergency on Mann Ki Baat, Modi says, 'democracy is our strength'

'There was a day when the voice of people was trampled, but now they express their views,' the PM said.

New Delhi:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared his thoughts with the nation on a number of issues in the 21st edition of the 'Mann Ki Baat' programme on June 26.

Here are the highlights:

For the last few weeks we have got positive news about rainfall in various parts of the nation. I wish all the farmers the best as Monsoon arrives across the nation. Scientists have predicted normal Monsoons this year. Like our farmers, our scientists too are working hard to take the country to greater heights. Yesterday I was in Pune where I met college students who made one of the satellites that was launched along with others a few days ago. This satellite signifies the skills and aspirations of the youth of India. Similar work was done by students from Chennai. I congratulate and thank ISRO and all the scientists for their efforts. India is proud of them. 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao' has touched so many lives. The results of the various examinations show how women are excelling. Induction of women fighter pilots into IAF is a proud moment for us. The women are from small cities and yet they dreamt big and achieved their success. I wish them and their parents well. The world marked the International Day of Yoga on June 21st in a big way. So many people practiced Yoga, all over India and all over the world. Projections of Yoga on the UN building became popular. Mann Ki Baat is criticised very often, but this is possible because we are in a democracy. Do you remember 25-26 June 1975 - when Emergency was declared across India. There was a day when voice of people was trampled over but now, the people of India express their views how the Government is doing. I urge everyone to disclose undisclosed income by September 30.

Earlier, Modi urged people to share their thoughts in MyGov Open Forum and record their message.

In the earlier editions, the Prime Minister had talked on several issues, including water conservation, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, promotion of khadi, skill development, scholarship for disabled children, infrastructure for educational institutions, menace of drugs and farmers' problems.

(This story originally appeared on Deccan Chronicle)