On December 28 this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation in the 129th edition of his hugely popular monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat. The episode served as a reflective capstone to the year that has gone by—a year described by the prime minister as one filled with moments of immense national pride.

Launched in October 2014, Mann Ki Baat has evolved into a unique platform where PM Modi connects directly with citizens, sharing stories of inspiration, highlighting achievements and addressing pressing issues. The programme, aired on the last Sunday of each month, reaches millions through radio, television and digital streams, fostering a sense of unity and collective progress.

In the 129th episode, the prime minister adopted a year-in-review approach, weaving together narratives of India’s advancements across diverse sectors. He emphasised themes of self-confidence, cultural rootedness and forward-looking innovation, while subtly touching on challenges like technological disruption and public health concerns. The broadcast opened with evocative visuals from the year, including Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India and the Indian women’s cricket team’s historic World Cup victory, setting a tone of optimism and resilience.

Drawing from grassroots stories to global milestones, PM Modi showcased the picture of an India that is not only progressing rapidly but also staying true to its heritage. The PM’s address was replete with examples of India’s strides in 2025, underscoring the nation’s growing stature on the world stage. He categorised these accomplishments into areas like national security, sports, science and space, environmental conservation and cultural heritage, each serving as a testament to collective effort and governmental initiatives.

One of the standout highlights was the reference to Operation Sindoor, which PM Modi described as a “symbol of pride for every Indian". He added: “The world clearly saw that today’s Bharat does not compromise on its security," highlighting how it evoked images of devotion to Mother India from across the globe. This narrative tied into the 150th anniversary of ‘Vande Mataram’, a song that has long symbolised India’s freedom struggle. The prime minister noted that the same spirit of patriotism was evident during the celebrations, which sparked extensive discussions in Parliament during the Winter Session, including debates on its historical and political significance.

These references underscore a broader theme of national unity and resilience. In a year marked by geopolitical tensions,........

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