Srinagar, Jan 26 (KNC): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday lauded the efforts of a young man from South Kashmir’s Anantnag district for successfully mobilising community participation to make his village tobacco-free, during the 130th episode of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat.
In the first broadcast of 2026, as per news agency Kashmir News Corner — KNC, the Prime Minister said that collective strength of families and society can overcome even the toughest challenges. He referred to Sheikhgund village in Anantnag, where issues related to drugs, tobacco and alcohol had become a growing concern.
The Prime Minister said Mir Jafar, a resident of the village, decided to act after witnessing the rising menace. “He brought together everyone from youth to elders and united the entire village against this problem,” Modi said, adding that the initiative led to shops discontinuing the sale of tobacco products and significantly increased awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse.
During the programme, the Prime Minister also spoke on several national issues, noting that January 26 marks Republic Day, commemorating the enforcement of the Constitution. He also highlighted National Voters’ Day observed on January 25, calling voters the “soul of democracy” and urging young citizens to register and exercise their franchise.
The Prime Minister further highlighted India’s emergence as the world’s third-largest start-up ecosystem and spoke about advancements in sectors such as artificial intelligence, space, green energy and biotechnology. He also mentioned the upcoming India AI Impact Summit to be held next month.
The programme concluded with the Prime Minister extending his Republic Day greetings to the nation. (KNC)
