PM Modi pitches water conservation, sustainable living ahead of monsoon

Bengaluru: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday called for greater public awareness on water conservation, stressing the urgency of prudent water management ahead of the monsoon season.

Modi urged farming communities to adopt better irrigation and water management practices through the government’s “Per Drop, More Crop” initiative, while addressing the 45th anniversary celebrations of The Art of Living Foundation, founded by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. “Saving every drop of water is also the Art of Living.”

He said conservation of electricity, elimination of single-use plastics and promotion of locally manufactured products aligned with the philosophy of the Art of Living movement. Modi also highlighted the union government’s Mission LiFE initiative, which advocates environmentally responsible lifestyles and harmony with nature.


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Referring to India’s spiritual traditions, Modi said the country’s values had influenced people globally and inspired several institutions within India. Quoting ancient teachings from the Puranas, he said service to others was intrinsic to Indian society.

“Living not for oneself but for others” reflects the country’s civilisational ethos, he said, adding that helping others was considered virtue while causing pain was regarded as sin.

The PM said social participation was critical for achieving national goals, asserting that society often possesses greater transformative power than governments and political systems. No administration can succeed fully without active community participation in nation-building, he said.

Citing the Swachh Bharat Mission as an example, Modi said the cleanliness campaign had evolved from a government programme into a people-led movement embedded in everyday life.

Youth Leading The Way

Modi said rapid global changes driven by scientific advancement and innovation were reshaping economies and societies, with India emerging as a leader in several sectors.

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He pointed to achievements in digital payments, infrastructure creation and the startup ecosystem, saying Indian youth were playing a central role in these advances, including in space technology.

“India is not merely participating in this transformation, but leading in many areas,” he said, while acknowledging the role of the Art of Living in helping young people address modern-day challenges.