Bhubaneswar, Jul 27: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for spotlighting the state's grassroots cultural and environmental initiatives during the 124th edition of Mann Ki Baat.

The Prime Minister lauded the efforts of over 650 tribal women in Mayurbhanj district who have revived the nearly forgotten Santhali saree tradition. These women are not only preserving their cultural heritage but also achieving economic self-reliance by weaving and selling these traditional garments. “They are not just making cloth—they are carving their own identity,” said the Prime Minister.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan echoed this sentiment, stating that such recognition on a national platform will inspire a new chapter of financial empowerment for tribal women and elevate Odisha’s cultural pride globally.

In a unique fusion of culture and conservation, PM Modi praised the Radhakrishna Sankirtan Mandali from Keonjhar district, led by Pramila Pradhan, for spreading awareness about forest fire prevention through bhajans and kirtans. The group travels from village to village, using traditional songs to educate communities on protecting forests and the environment. “This example reminds us that our folk traditions are not relics of the past—they continue to inspire and guide society,” Modi remarked.

The Prime Minister also introduced the Gyan Bharatam Mission, aimed at safeguarding India’s vast manuscript heritage and making it accessible through digitisation and academic integration. He emphasised that India’s ancient wisdom in science, medicine, and philosophy holds the potential to illuminate humanity’s future.

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