Twitterati Get PM Pat for Good Ideas

NEW DELHI: In a new initiative to reach out to the populace, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday  connected with people over radio, giving a pep talk on shedding despondency and the use of skills for the country’s betterment. Narrating a parable that was often referred to by Swami Vivekananda, the Prime Minister said, “A tiger cub once lost its way and was raised by sheep. The cub acquired all mannerisms of the sheep and believed he was part of the flock, until another tiger showed him his reflection in water and made the cub realise his true potential. The tiger brought up by sheep finally regained his self-respect and even his roar.”  “Our countrymen too have huge potential, and as Viveknanda said, if we awaken our self-respect, our country will become powerful,” he added.

In his short speech, Modi also named a few citizens who had written to him with suggestions on India’s socio-economic development. “One Gautam Pal said there should be more schemes for specially-abled children by municipal corporations and panchayats... Other interesting suggestions included ban on polythene, skill development for Class V students and placing dustbins every 100 metres.”

“They are the responsibility of not only their families but the entire society,” the Prime Minister said. Recalling his days as Gujarat Chief Minister, Modi said, “We began Khel Mahakumbh for specially-abled athletes and I myself would go and see the sports.” He also said he would consider the suggestion for making it easier for registration of small scale industries.

“You send me true stories. If they have potential to inspire me, or our countrymen, I will share it with everyone,” the Prime Minister said. Overwhelmed by the response to the radio broadcast, Modi declared he would come on air once or twice a month on Sunday at 11 am. To ensure maximum reach, the Prime Minister’s message was translated in regional languages and broadcast again at 8 pm.