PM Modi highlights Manipur astrophysicist, Bihar waste-to-wealth, Gujarat hornbill return, UP women's herbal tea in Mann Ki Baat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday spotlighted inspiring efforts and achievements from across India, including a Manipur-born astrophysicist’s discovery, environmental initiatives, and women-led entrepreneurship.

During the 136th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’, he praised astrophysicist Dr Ronaldo Laishram, who was part of a team that discovered a young galaxy cluster.

"I would like to tell you all about Dr Ronaldo Laishram from Manipur. His name is Ronaldo, but he's an astrophysicist. He works in Japan and was part of the team that discovered a large cluster of young galaxies. They named this entire cluster the Loktak proto-cluster, after a beautiful lake in Manipur," he said.


The Prime Minister also highlighted a “Waste to Wealth” initiative in Sitamarhi, Bihar, where plastic waste is being recycled into durable benches for public spaces.

"A wonderful example of 'Waste to Wealth' has emerged in Sitamarhi, Bihar. Here, waste is being recycled to create attractive benches. Approximately 40 kg of single-use plastic is used to make one bench. These benches are strong, durable, comfortable, and eco-friendly. They are installed in government schools, parks, and public spaces. This is also raising awareness about environmental conservation," PM Modi said.

He added, "This initiative is also raising awareness among people about environmental conservation. Both local bodies and the district administration play a vital role in this effort. That's also generating local employment opportunities. This initiative in Sitamarhi shows us that 'Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle' is no longer just a slogan but is becoming a part of our lives."

Highlighting conservation success, he noted the return of the Indian Grey Hornbill to Gujarat’s Gir forests after nearly six decades.

"After nearly 60 years, the Indian Grey Hornbill is re-establishing its nest in the Gir forests of Gujarat. This is the result of years of conservation and restoration efforts in Gir," he said.

"Hornbills are called farmers of the forests. They eat fruits and spread the seeds far and wide, from which new trees grow in the forest. In this way, a bird helps re-green the forest," he added.

PM Modi also lauded women-led entrepreneurship in Uttar Pradesh, where a self-help group created ‘Vidur Prerana Swadeshi Herbal Tea’ using natural ingredients.

"Women associated with a Self Help Group in Lakhiwala village, Bijnor district, Uttar Pradesh, have created 'Vidur Prerana Swadeshi Herbal Tea.' It contains natural ingredients like lemongrass, giloy, liquorice, basil, raw turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, and fennel," he said.

"The most inspiring thing is its beginning. This entire effort started with just one lakh rupees. Today, the brand has reached major institutions across the country. This initiative shows us that when local knowledge, nature, and women's confidence come together, even a small effort can become the beginning of big change," PM Modi said.

[With inputs from ANI]