Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in the first Mann Ki Baat episode of 2025, called on citizens to exercise their right to vote in large numbers and actively participate in the nation’s democratic process. He emphasized the significance of January 25, celebrated as National Voters’ Day, which also marks the establishment of the Election Commission of India (ECI).
Highlighting the pivotal role of the ECI, PM Modi said, “January 25 is National Voters’ Day. This day is important because it commemorates the establishment of the Election Commission of India. Our Constitution makers gave the Election Commission an important place in the Constitution and ensured people’s participation in democracy. While some doubted whether our democracy would survive, India, as the Mother of Democracy, has proved all such apprehensions wrong. Over the decades, our democracy has only strengthened and prospered.”
The Prime Minister lauded the Election Commission for its efforts in modernizing and strengthening the electoral process. He credited the Commission for leveraging technology to empower voters and ensuring fair elections. “I thank the Election Commission for its commitment to fair elections and urge all citizens to exercise their right to vote and strengthen our democracy,” he added.
As India gears up for the Republic Day celebrations, PM Modi described this year’s event as particularly significant, marking the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Indian Constitution. “This year’s Republic Day is very special. It marks 75 years since our sacred Constitution came into force. I salute the great visionaries of the Constituent Assembly who gave us this invaluable gift,” he said.
During the broadcast, PM Modi shared audio clips of prominent voices from the Constituent Assembly, including Babasaheb Ambedkar, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, and Dr. Syama Prasad Mukherjee. He elaborated on their messages, saying, “Babasaheb emphasized unity and working together for the welfare of all. Dr. Rajendra Prasad highlighted the importance of human values, while Dr. Syama Prasad Mukherjee spoke about providing equal opportunities. These messages remain timeless and continue to inspire us.”
This month’s Mann Ki Baat was broadcast on the third Sunday instead of the usual last Sunday, as Republic Day falls on the final Sunday of January. PM Modi extended his advance greetings to the nation, saying, “I wish all my fellow citizens a Happy Republic Day in advance. Let us reflect on the ideals of our Constitution and continue to uphold its values.”
Launched on October 3, 2014, Mann Ki Baat is PM Modi’s monthly radio program that connects with diverse sections of Indian society, including women, youth, and the elderly. It addresses key national issues and highlights cultural and social topics.
The program is broadcast in 22 Indian languages, 29 dialects, and 11 foreign languages, including French, Chinese, Arabic, and Swahili. It is aired across more than 500 All India Radio centers, ensuring its wide reach to audiences both in India and globally.
