Full Breakdown
Modi Calls for “Vocal for Local” Ahead of Diwali in 139th Mann Ki Baat
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Address (5W1H)
On October 25 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered the 139th episode of his monthly radio programme *Mann Ki Baat*. The speech linked the “Vocal for Local” campaign to broader goals of an “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India).
Highlights of Local Products and Export Gains
- Makhana (fox-nut) from Purnia, Bihar, is now being exported to Greece.
- Arhar dal (pigeon pea) from Kalaburagi, Karnataka, has found markets in the Maldives.
- Tribal-run brand Shabari Naturals in Maharashtra sells honey, mahua, chironji and bamboo goods in packaging that earned Japan’s Good Design Award.
- Khadi sales on Gandhi Jayanti reached INR28 crore in a single day, INR1.5 crore higher than the previous year.
These examples were presented as evidence that indigenous products are gaining “new markets across the world.”
Rural Initiatives Spotlighted (Official Statements & Responses)
- Nav-Trinjan – an organic-farming programme run by the non-profit Kheti Virasat Mission in Punjab’s Malwa region. The initiative cultivates chemical-free cotton and naturally coloured varieties, and has established a weaving school that trains women to produce shawls, towels and other textiles.
- Heval River revival in Uttarakhand’s Tehri Garhwal district. Modi described a community-administered campaign that captured rainwater, recharged groundwater and planted large numbers of trees, resulting in a “new lease of life” for the river and the restoration of dozens of natural water sources.
Background of “Vocal for Local”
The “Vocal for Local” movement was launched in 2020 to encourage domestic consumption of Indian-made goods. The 2026 address reinforced the link between consumer choices and the empowerment of artisans, farmers and traditional craftsmen.
Verbatim Quotes
- “During this festive season, you must all have noticed a change around you. Now people have started giving a lot of importance to indigenous products while shopping. This spirit of 'Vocal for Local' is taking our products to markets around the world,” — PM Modi, prime minister
- “Measures were undertaken to capture rainwater, facilitate groundwater recharge and plant a large number of trees. Today, thanks to these efforts, the Heval river has been revitalized and simultaneously dozens of natural water sources have received help in their restoration,” — Narendra Modi, prime minister
These statements capture the Prime Minister’s emphasis on both market expansion for local products and the concrete environmental actions taken to revive the Heval river.