We must know the valour of soldiers: PM Modi in 'Mann Ki Baat'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation through his monthly radio programme "Mann Ki Baat" during which he highlighted the contributions made by Indian soldiers to peacekeeping missions across the world,  the transformative role of Khadi and the importance of Yogi in fighting off lifestyle diseases.

"Celebrating Diwali with soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir's Gurez sector was an unforgettable experience for me," the prime minister said.

He highlighted the contributions made by the Indian soldiers to UN peacekeeping missions all over the world.

"We must try to know of the tales of valour of our soldiers. More than 18,000 soldiers have contributed to UN Peacekeeping missions. Currently, 7,000 soldiers, Indian troops are deployed with UN peacekeeping initiatives, it's third highest in the world.

Our role is not confined to peacekeeping operations. India also trains peacekeepers of 85 countries," PM  Modi said.

He added that Indian women soldiers had contributed significantly to peacekeeping missions and that India was first nation to send women to peacekeeping missions.

"United Nations Declaration of Human Rights is a testimony to India's push for gender equality," PM Modi said

He also wished children on the upcoming occasion of Children's Day (November 14), congratulated the Indian hockey team on winning the Asia Cup after 10 years and badminton player Kidambi Srinath for winning the Denmark Open.

"After 10 years India won Asia Cup. I congratulate entire team and the support staff," PM Modi said.

"I congratulate Shuttler Kidambi Srikanth for winning Denmark Open and for making India proud," PM Modi said.

On football as a sport, the PM said, "Young Indian players won hearts of fans. Future of football is bright in India."

PM Modi also spoke about the "Khadi for transformation" that was taking place in the country. Using phrases such as "Khadi for Nation" and "Khadi for fashion", the Indian PM said that Delhi's Khadi Gramodyog store had recorded sales of Rs 1 crore on the occasion of Dhanteras.

The prime minister urged the youth to practice yoga. and said it would prevent and help them to fight lifestyle diseases.

He also announced that a "Run for Unity" would be organised on October 31.

"'Run for Unity' will be organised throughout the country on the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel," the PM said, adding, "Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel not only suggested revolutionary ideas but also implemented them, and united India."

He also made special mention of spiritual leaders Guru Nanak and Sister Nivedita and said, "India has been blessed with great people, who served humanity with selflessness."

"On November 4 we'll celebrate Guru Nanak Jayanti. Guru Nanak Dev ji is not only the first Guru of Sikhs, but he is also a Jagat Guru (guru of the world)," he said.

"Sister Nivedita worked to unite people by awakening national consciousness".