Mann Ki Baat: What Messages Did PM Modi Highlight In His First Episode Of 2026

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday in the first Mann Ki Baat episode of 2026 spoke about democracy, development, culture and the future. 

The 130th edition of the radio programme came a day before Republic Day and focused strongly on public participation, youth power and India’s global ambitions. 

Why did PM Modi call first-time voters the pride of the Republic?

Linking the programme with National Voters’ Day, the Prime Minister urged eligible citizens to register and vote. He made a special appeal to young Indians voting for the first time.

“Today is the National Voters' Day. The voter is the soul of democracy. Generally, when someone turns 18, they become a voter; it is considered an ordinary stage in a person's life. However, this occasion is a very big milestone in an Indian's life. Hence, it is very important that we celebrate becoming a voter in the country,” Modi said.

The first #MannKiBaat of 2026... Do tune in as we discuss a wide range of subjects.
https://t.co/YKPaREBkCg

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 25, 2026

Why did Modi recall a 2016 social media trend?

Modi took listeners back to 2016, when Indians shared startup stories online after the launch of Startup India. He said the journey since then has been remarkable.

“Ten years ago, in January 2016, we embarked upon an ambitious journey. We had realised then that even if it were a small one, it was very important for the future of the country for the young generation. Today, India has turned into the third-largest startup ecosystem in the world. These startups are out of the box; they are working in sectors that were unimaginable even 10 years ago,” he said.

How did PM Modi link youth energy with innovation?

Calling young Indians the backbone of growth, the Prime Minister said innovation should solve real problems on the ground.

Our youth are not just job seekers, they are job creators,” Modi said.

Why did bhajans and kirtans find a place in Mann Ki Baat?

In a cultural note, Modi spoke about the spiritual power of bhajans and kirtans, especially among the younger generation.

"In our country, bhajans and kirtans have been the soul of our culture for centuries. We have listened to bhajans in temples, during kathas, and every era has embodied Bhakti according to respective times."

Today's generation is also achieving "something spectacular", he said, adding, "Today's youth have incorporated the spirit of devotion into their experiences and lifestyles. This thinking has given rise to a new cultural trend. You must have seen such videos on social media."

"Large numbers of the youth are gathering in different cities across the country. The stage is decorated… There is lighting, music… There is all the pomp and show, and the atmosphere is no less than a concert. It feels like a huge concert, but what is being sung there is the resonance of bhajans sung with complete concentration, dedication, and rhythm. Today, his trend is being called 'bhajan clubbing', and it's becoming increasingly popular, especially among Gen Z," the Prime Minister said.

What did PM Modi say about the Indian diaspora?

The Prime Minister praised Indians living abroad for keeping the country’s image strong.

“The Indian diaspora is a living bridge between India and the world,” he said, thanking them for promoting Indian values, culture and products globally.

The Prime Minister praised the Indian diaspora in Malaysia, noting that "There are over 500 Tamil schools there and growing focus on other Indian languages."
He also referred to the UAE declaring 2026 as the “Year of the Family”, linking it to India’s strong family system. 

How did environmental issues feature in the address?

Modi spoke about cleanliness drives, water conservation and sustainable living as people’s movements.

Highlighting the community-led water conservation initiative in Anantapur, Prime Minister Modi said, "The soil here is red and sandy. This is the reason people face water scarcity. Many regions do not witness rainfall for long periods. Many a times, people even compare Anantapur with the drought conditions of a desert."

Why did millets get special mention again?

Reiterating the push for Shree Anna, the Prime Minister said millets are good for health, farmers and the planet.

The Prime Minister said that a group of women farmers in Tamil Nadu’s Kallakurichi district has emerged as a major source of inspiration.

“Around 800 women farmers are associated with the Periyapalayam Millet FPC here. Seeing the rising popularity of millets, these women established a Millet Processing Unit. Now they are directly supplying the products made from millets to the market,” he said.

“Furthermore, I am delighted to know that many temples nowadays use only millets in their prasad. I heartily congratulate all the administrators of these temples for this initiative,” he added.

“Millets are rich in nutrition and are a superfood. In our country, the winter season is considered very good for dietary consumption. Therefore, we should definitely consume Shree Anna during these times,” he said.

What was Modi’s message on AI and the future?

Looking ahead, the Prime Minister spoke about the India AI Impact Summit 2026, stressing responsible and inclusive use of technology.

"AI, space, nuclear energy, semiconductors, mobility, green hydrogen, biotechnology, you name it, and you'll find one Indian start-up or the other working in that sector. I salute all my young friends who are associated with one startup or the other, or want to start one of their own. Let us resolve to improve the quality of whatever we manufacture. Be it our textiles, technology, electronics, or packaging, the connotation of an Indian product should become 'top quality'. Let us make excellence our benchmark," he added.