Mann Ki Baat: PM Modi Addresses Nation Ahead Of Republic Day 2026; Gives BIG Message To Indians

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation through the 130th episode of the radio program ‘Mann Ki Baat’ on Sunday. This was the first episode of PM Modi’s address to the nation in the year 2026. PM Narendra Modi talked about a range of issues including the Constitution, ‘Start up India’ and much more.

What did PM Modi say on 'Mann ki Baat'?

"Tomorrow, on January 26, we will celebrate our Republic Day. Our Constitution came into effect on this very day. This day, the 26th of January, gives us an opportunity to pay homage to the founding fathers of our Constitution," Prime Minister Narendra Modi said during the 130th episode of 'Mann Ki Baat' on Sunday, the first episode of the year 2026.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged people to participate in democratic processes. On Sunday, he said that being a voter is not merely a constitutional privilege, but a crucial duty that empowers every citizen to have a say in shaping India's future. In a letter to 'My-Bharat' volunteers on National Voters' Day, he described voters as the architects of India's development journey. The Prime Minister said, “In a democracy, being a voter is both a privilege and a great responsibility. Voting is a constitutional right and symbolizes the participation of citizens in the future of India.”

PM Modi said, “The voter is the architect of our development journey. The indelible ink on the finger on polling day signifies that our democracy is vibrant and its purpose is profound.” National Voters' Day is celebrated every year on January 25th in India, coinciding with the founding day of the Election Commission of India. Modi said, “Many of your friends or relatives may be young people who are becoming voters for the first time. This is a very important moment in their lives. First-time voters should be wholeheartedly welcomed into democracy because they have the potential to change the destiny of the country.”

PM Modi said, "These days I am seeing an interesting trend on social media. People are reliving their memories of the year 2016. In this spirit, today I want to share a memory with you. Ten years ago, in January 2016, we embarked on an ambitious journey. We realized then that even if it was small, it was crucial for the young generation and the future of the country. Today, India has become the third largest start-up ecosystem in the world. These start-ups are out-of-the-box. They are working in sectors that were difficult to even imagine 10 years ago.

What did PM Modi say about start-ups?

Recalling the journey of Startup India, Prime Minister Modi said,"we launched Startup India 10 years ago in 2016. The innovations made by the youth of the country for this initiative are being recorded in history. India is becoming the world's third-largest startup ecosystem. Indian startups are working in various sectors, from AI, space, and nuclear energy to semiconductors. I salute all the young people who are involved with startups or want to start one."

“AI, space, nuclear energy, semiconductors, mobility, green hydrogen, biotechnology—you name it—and you'll find an Indian start-up working in that sector. I salute all my young friends who are associated with a start-up or want to start their own," he added.

Which new cultural trend did PM Modi talk about?

"Today's youth have incorporated devotion into their experience and lifestyle. This thinking has given rise to a new cultural trend. Large numbers of young people are gathering in various cities across the country. Stages are decorated, there is lighting, there is music, and the atmosphere is no less than a concert," the Prime Minister said.

“Today our culture and festivals are gaining recognition worldwide. Indian festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy in every corner of the world. Our Indian brothers and sisters have played a significant role in maintaining all kinds of cultural vitality,” he added.

He said that people have given new life to the Tamsa River. “The Tamsa is not just a river, but a living source of our cultural and spiritual heritage. Originating in Ayodhya and merging with the Ganges, this river was once central to the lives of the people of this region, but pollution had disrupted its uninterrupted flow. The locals launched a campaign to revitalize it. The river was cleaned and trees were planted along its banks,” PM modi said.