New Delhi, June 28 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated on Sunday that during the global energy crisis, the support people showed for his appeal to conserve fuel, avoid unnecessary foreign travel, and decrease gold purchases demonstrates the strength of ‘janbhagidari’ (people’s participation) in India.

Speaking during the 135th episode of his monthly radio programme, ‘Mann Ki Baat’, PM Modi said, “When a nation’s soul resides in its people and when the people of that country make a resolve, no power can deter them from their goals. The power of ‘janbhagidari’ in the nation-building is a tremendous asset for India. We experience this janbhagidari time and time again.”

“In view of the war-like situation in West Asia, I had made a few appeals to my countrymen. I had urged them to avoid buying gold for some time. I had urged people to avoid foreign travel for vacations. I had also appealed to them to encourage car-pooling. I had urged the farmers to adopt a chemical-free farming to protect their farms and ensure extensive use of organic fertilisers,” he added.

The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to every citizen of the country who not only supported his appeal, but also cooperated in every possible way.

“Through their messages, many families have shared their experiences. Many families decided not to buy gold for weddings in the family. And in case of need, they would make new jewellery through the recycling of old gold. Many people have even written on social media about how they have postponed their foreign travel this time,” he mentioned.

The Prime Minister said that people even shared numerous experiences of car pooling, while the farmers switched to organic farming.

“People who used to travel in their own vehicles in the same direction daily have now started going together. People are using buses and the metro as much as possible. This has helped to save petrol and diesel. Similarly, news of increased use of organic fertilisers is also coming from different parts of the country,” he further said.

“I am happy to see that we are dealing with this global crisis together. I am sure that this power of janbhagidari will make us stronger and will make us stronger,” PM Modi added.

–IANS

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