Modi Appeals to Citizens to Boost ‘Vocal for Local’ Campaign Ahead of Diwali

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday urged citizens to prioritise products made by local artisans while shopping for Diwali, saying their support would strengthen the ‘Vocal for Local’ campaign and accelerate India’s journey towards self-reliance.

Addressing the nation through his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’, Modi said the growing emphasis on locally made products was helping Indian goods reach international markets and creating new opportunities for farmers and traditional artisans.

He cited the examples of makhana from Bihar reaching Greece and arhar dal from Karnataka being exported to the Maldives, saying Indian agricultural products were finding markets beyond the country. The prime minister appealed to people to give prominence to products crafted by local artisans while purchasing gifts and other festive essentials. Such purchases, he said, would encourage artisans and boost their enthusiasm.

Modi also highlighted the importance of attractive packaging, noting that presentation often influences consumers’ purchasing decisions. He said greater attention was now being paid to packaging to improve the appeal of products.

During the broadcast, he highlighted efforts to revive traditional farming and weaving practices in Punjab. The Kheti Virasat Mission has been promoting organic farming, including natural cotton cultivation in the Malwa region through an initiative called ‘Nav-Trinjan’. The initiative has also established a weaving school to pass traditional skills on to younger generations.

Modi further spoke about community-led efforts to revive the Heval river in Uttarakhand’s Tehri Garhwal district. Measures such as rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge and tree plantation have helped restore the river and rejuvenate several natural water sources.

The prime minister also highlighted the reach of e-Sanjeevani, the government’s telemedicine service, which has facilitated nearly 50 crore tele-consultations. He said the service was extending medical consultations to remote parts of the country, reflecting the role of technology and healthcare professionals in improving access to medical services.