Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, after listening to the 124th episode of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Mann Ki Baat’ on Sunday, expressed that the Prime Minister’s appreciation for the historic forts of Bundelkhand and cleanliness-driven women in Bhopal instills “divine energy and new resolve.”
He emphasized that PM Modi’s leadership continues to inspire citizens in the collective effort of nation-building.
Listening to the programme with local residents at Sheel Public School in Ward 50 of Bhopal, CM Yadav noted that “Prime Minister Shri Modi inspires the strength of every citizen for reconstruction of the nation.” He highlighted recent achievements, including the success of Operation Sindoor and the significance of Kargil Vijay Diwas in honoring the courage of the armed forces.
Dr. Yadav reiterated his government's focus on employment and self-reliance, stating, “The establishment of industries for hardworking people as temples continues steadily in the state.” He also announced that the bhoomi poojan for a major rail coach manufacturing unit near Bhopal’s Raisen border will take place on August 10.
During the radio address, Prime Minister Modi said, “There is a team in Bhopal named ‘Sakaratmak Soch’, it has 200 women. They not only clean but also change mindsets. Cleaning 17 parks of the city together, distributing cloth bags—every step of theirs is a message. Due to such efforts, Bhopal has now come much ahead in the cleanliness survey.”
The Prime Minister also spoke about the historical legacy of forts in Bundelkhand, saying, “There are many such forts in Bundelkhand—Gwalior, Jhansi, Datia, Ajaygarh, Garhkundar, Chanderi. These forts are not just of bricks and stones, they are symbols of our culture. Values and pride still peek through the high walls of these forts. I urge all citizens to visit these forts, know your history, and feel pride.”
Addressing the gathering, CM Yadav underlined the importance of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ as a “powerful medium of direct communication with citizens” that regularly highlights inspirational grassroots initiatives—from bird counts in Kaziranga to cleanliness campaigns in Gupt Godavari.
He congratulated Bhopal residents for their city’s improved cleanliness rankings and appreciated efforts by local communities. Referring to the Ratapani Sanctuary, located 15 km from Bhopal, he described it as unique for being a tiger habitat near an urban area, stating it exemplifies “live and let live” and the Indian philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.”
CM Yadav also used the occasion to announce a festive gesture under the Ladli Behna Yojana, stating, “The month of Sawan brings with it the festival of Raksha Bandhan. On this occasion, the state government has decided to give an additional amount of Rs 250 as a token gift to sisters under the Ladli Behna Yojana to celebrate the festival.” This benefit will be deposited in the accounts of 1 crore 29 lakh women across the state.
He added that festivals strengthen social harmony and reaffirmed the state government’s resolution to celebrate them officially. Encouraging local craftsmanship, he called upon women to promote Maheshwari and Chanderi sarees as part of preserving traditional textile heritage.
Highlighting industrial progress, CM Yadav informed that regional investor summits are underway, with investment proposals worth Rs 3,000 crore received in the recent Rewa summit. He reiterated the state’s commitment to supporting employment-generating industries.
The event was attended by District President Shri Ravindra Yati, social worker Shri Rahul Kothari, members of the Gulmohar Residents Association, and other local citizens.