Mann Ki Baat Update: PM Narendra Modi Issues Heatwave Advisory and Celebrates National Athletics Records

 

PM Narendra Modi Addresses 134th Episode of 'Mann Ki Baat': Issues Urgent Nationwide Heatwave Advisory, Commends Historic Athletic Records, and Applauds Technological Reforms

NEW DELHI — Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation on Sunday, May 31, 2026, during the 134th episode of his monthly radio broadcast, Mann Ki Baat. Spanning across various subjects of national importance, the Prime Minister’s address struck a fine balance between delivering critical safety directives to the public and celebrating major milestones in Indian sports and digital governance.

With massive regions of Northwest and Central India battling soaring summer temperatures, the Prime Minister prioritized public health, urging citizens to take severe precautions against the ongoing heatwave while outlining the government's coordinated response.

An Urgent Appeal to the Nation: Staying Safe Amid Soaring Heatwaves

Opening his address, Prime Minister Modi pointed out the challenging climatic conditions affecting multiple states, including Rajasthan, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. Acknowledging that temperatures have breached dangerous thresholds, he issued a direct, empathetic appeal to citizens to respect nature’s extremities and adjust their daily routines accordingly.

The Prime Minister stated:

"My dear countrymen, the intensity of the summer this year is testing our resilience. I urge everyone, especially our elders and young children, to take extraordinary precautions when stepping out in the sun. Staying well-hydrated is not just a choice, it is a medical necessity during these times. Let us look out for one another, and crucially, let us not forget the birds and street animals who suffer silently during these harsh summer months. A small bowl of water kept outside your homes can save lives."

He further detailed how local municipal administrations and state health departments have been instructed to optimize public cooling spaces, guarantee drinking water availability at transport hubs, and keep emergency medical care units on high alert. He noted that while regional weather departments show the heatwave is gradually abating in parts of the plains, constant vigilance remains necessary.

Celebrating a Historic Sprint: Three National Records Broken in Two Days

Shifting to an inspiring note, the Prime Minister expressed his profound pride in the soaring achievements of India’s young sportspersons on the athletic track. He highlighted the sensational performances witnessed at the 29th National Senior Athletics Federation Competition held in Ranchi, where the national record in the blue-riband 100-metre race was shattered three times in a span of just two days.

In a unique segment of the program, PM Modi shared his personal telephonic conversations with India’s star sprinters, Gurindervir Singh and Animesh Kujur. He praised Gurindervir for clocking a historic 10.09 seconds, making him the first Indian man to successfully breach the coveted 10.10-second barrier.

The Prime Minister appreciated the sportsmanship displayed by the duo, noting how they maintain a deep, supportive friendship during their practice sessions but turn into fierce, healthy competitors on the running track. He stated that this new generation of athletes represents the rising confidence of Viksit Bharat, proving that Indian youth are ready to challenge global benchmarks in sports infrastructure and timing parameters.

Empowering Small Businesses: The Impact of PM SVANidhi

Reflecting on socio-economic transformations, the Prime Minister highlighted that the PM Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) scheme has successfully completed six years of operations. Launched to protect the livelihoods of urban street vendors, the scheme has seamlessly democratized access to affordable micro-credit loans without requiring collateral.

Modi shared success stories of fruit sellers, tea vendors, and small artisans who used these micro-loans to integrate themselves into the formal banking system. By adopting digital transaction systems, these micro-entrepreneurs have built formal credit histories, allowing them to access higher loan brackets and expand their businesses. He emphasized that financial inclusion is no longer an elite privilege but a grassroots reality driving local economies.

Honoring Legacies and Looking Toward the Future

Toward the conclusion of the broadcast, Prime Minister Modi paid rich tributes to Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar on her birth anniversary, praising her exemplary vision in administrative reforms, temple reconstruction, and social justice. He noted that her life remains a timeless manual for governance and public welfare.

The Prime Minister ended his address by reminding citizens of upcoming national initiatives, including the upcoming 'Khet Bachao Abhiyan' starting from Raisen, which focuses on natural farming practices and chemical-free soil rejuvenation. Wrapping up his 134th address, he wished the nation health and success, reminding everyone to embrace technological progress while keeping roots firmly anchored in sustainable community practices.