Synopsis
In his recent Mann Ki Baat episode, PM Modi highlighted the commendable work of Arunachal Pradesh's Deepak Nabam and Assam villagers' Haathi Bandhu initiative to protect crops from elephants. These stories of service and compassion reflect the best of Indian spirit.Key Takeaways
- PM Modi commended Deepak Nabam's service in Arunachal Pradesh.
- Assam villagers formed 'Haathi Bandhu' to protect crops from elephants.
- Nabam runs a shelter for the disabled and elderly.
- Efforts driven by altruism resonate through word-of-mouth.
- Napier grass planting has reduced elephant intrusions.
Guwahati, Jan 19 (NationPress) In the latest episode of his monthly radio show Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spotlighted the remarkable contributions of Assam villagers in safeguarding their crops from the destruction caused by wild elephants and the selfless service of Deepak Nabam from Arunachal Pradesh, who assists the elderly and those with disabilities.
During the 118th episode, the Prime Minister praised Deepak Nabam for exemplifying the essence of humanitarian service in Arunachal Pradesh.
He operates a Shelter House at Senki Park in Itanagar, providing care for individuals who are mentally ill, physically challenged, and elderly. Additionally, the facility supports individuals struggling with addiction.
PM Modi shared that Nabam initiated a campaign to aid marginalized communities, families affected by violence, and the homeless, all without any external support.
Today, his initiative has evolved into a recognized organization that has received numerous awards, as noted by the Prime Minister.
PM Modi emphasized that efforts driven by genuine intent and altruism resonate widely through word-of-mouth.
“Our Mann Ki Baat serves as a significant platform for this. In our expansive nation, if someone is contributing positively even in distant regions and prioritizes their responsibilities, this platform showcases their endeavors effectively,” he remarked.
The Prime Minister also reflected on the unique bond between humans and animals.
“While animals cannot vocalize, humans can interpret their emotions and gestures aptly. Animals too comprehend the language of affection and thrive in it,” he noted.
Highlighting a proactive approach taken by the Assam villagers to deter wild elephants from damaging their crops, PM Modi mentioned that Nagaon is home to a substantial elephant population.
He acknowledged the distress faced by farmers as wild elephant herds would frequently ravage their crops.
“The inhabitants of around 100 villages in Nagaon have endured challenges due to wild elephants. Nevertheless, they recognized the elephants' plight, understanding they were encroaching on fields in search of food. Consequently, they devised a solution and formed a team, termed 'Haathi Bandhu'.
Haathi Bandhu, demonstrating ingenuity, embarked on an initiative across approximately 800 bighas of fallow land, collaboratively planting Napier grass.
PM Modi stated that elephants are particularly fond of Napier grass, leading to a decrease in their wandering into agricultural fields.
“This brings great relief to thousands of villagers, and even the elephants have appreciated their efforts,” PM Modi remarked.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister mentioned that Nagaon is the birthplace of the illustrious Srimanta Shankardev, a revered figure in Indian history, and praised the area's natural beauty.
Srimanta Sankardev was an influential 15th-16th century Assamese polymath known as a saint-scholar, poet, and playwright.
