Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated India's push for self-reliance in his 'Mann Ki Baat' radio address on June 28, 2026. He talked about the first flight of the C-295 military transport aircraft, a big step for Indian aviation.
First of 56 C-295 aircraft, which Indian Air Force is buying for about ₹21,935 crore, took off June 10. Modi said 40 of these will be assembled locally by Tata Advanced Systems Limited with Airbus in Vadodara. This should boost aerospace sector,create jobs.
Beyond aviation,Modi mentioned three new naval ships—INS Dunagiri,INS Shanshak,INS Agrya—now part of Indian Navy,all made in India. He said these are points of national pride and security .
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) grabbed attention with a successful test of indigenous Long-Range Land-Attack Cruise Missile off Odisha coast June 15. Modi stated, “From seas to skies, India is becoming more secure, self-reliant.”
Modi thanked citizens for backing various efforts,like skipping gold buys, carpooling amid West Asia tensions. He urged farmers to go chemical-free,use natural fertilizers.
In education,Modi announced Central Sanskrit University in Delhi will start a B.Tech program in AI and Data Science, blending modern tech with traditional knowledge.
He shared a touching story from Dominican Republic, where locals, inspired by Indian culture, formed ‘Brahmakamal Dominicana’ to study Vedic literature,chant mantras. Shows India's cultural reach.
Modi also talked about environmental efforts, highlighting biologist Purnima Devi Barman's work in Assam to change views on the Hargila bird . Once seen as bad luck,now a local symbol due to community work.
In Nagaland,'Nagaland Baby League' is inspiring kids to pursue sports from a young age. Modi said children 5-12 can join, building skills and community spirit.
In Meghalaya, he mentioned efforts to preserve unique root bridges,now up for UNESCO World Heritage status. Community's dedication to these amid climate issues is noteworthy.
In Rajgarh,Madhya Pradesh,women are tackling plastic waste,turning it into eco-bricks for public spaces. Modi praised their initiative,turning pollution into a resource.
With Ganesh Chaturthi coming, Modi urged buying clay idols from local artisans. He stressed supporting local craftsmanship as festival nears…
