India takes great pride in vibrant Tamil culture, Pongal embodies gratitude towards the toil of farmers: PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Pongal celebrations at New Delhi today (Jan 14). Extending greetings in Tamil, Modi highlighted, “today, Pongal has become a global festival”, celebrated with enthusiasm by Tamil communities and those who cherish Tamil culture across the world, and added that he too is one among them. He stated that it is a matter of fortune for him to celebrate this special festival together with all.
The Prime Minister observed that in Tamil life, Pongal is like a pleasant experience, embodying gratitude towards the toil of the farmers, the earth, and the Sun, while also guiding us towards balance in nature, family, and society. Modi noted that at this time, different parts of the country are also immersed in the celebrations of Lohri, Makar Sankranti, Magh Bihu, and other festivals. He extended his heartfelt greetings to all Tamil brothers and sisters in India and across the world on Pongal and conveyed best wishes for all the festivals.
PM Modi remarked that it was a matter of great joy for him that in the past year he had the opportunity to participate in several programmes connected with Tamil culture. He stated that he offered prayers at the thousand-year-old Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple in Tamil Nadu. The Prime Minister highlighted that during the Kashi Tamil Sangamam in Varanasi, he constantly felt and remained connected with the energy of cultural unity.
PM recalled that when he visited Rameswaram for the inauguration of the Pamban Bridge, he once again witnessed the greatness of Tamil history. Underlining that Tamil culture is a shared heritage of the entire nation, and indeed, of all humanity, Modi emphasized that the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat which he often speaks of is further strengthened by festivals like Pongal.
Gratitude towards nature is not limited to words
Prime Minister Modi remarked that the festival of Pongal inspires us to ensure that gratitude towards nature is not limited to words but becomes a part of our lifestyle. He emphasized that when the earth gives us so much, it is our responsibility to preserve it. Modi underlined that keeping the soil healthy, conserving water, and using resources in a balanced manner for the next generation is most essential. He highlighted that campaigns such as Mission LiFE, Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam, and Amrit Sarovar advance this very spirit. The Prime Minister stated that the government is continuously working to make agriculture more sustainable and environmentally friendly.
Youth are moving forward with new ideas
PM Modi observed that in the coming times, sustainable farming practices, water management—reiterating his call of ‘Per Drop, More Crop’—natural farming, agritech, and value addition will play a crucial role. Modi noted that in all these areas, the youth are moving forward with new ideas. He recalled that only a few months ago he attended a conference in Tamil Nadu related to natural farming, where he witnessed the excellent work of Tamil youth, who had left behind major aspects of professional life to work in the fields.
The Prime Minister urged his young Tamil friends engaged in agriculture to further expand this campaign of bringing a revolution in sustainable farming. He stressed that our goal should be that our plate remains full, our pocket remains full, and our earth remains safe.
“Tamil culture is one of the most ancient living civilizations in the world”, emphasised Modi. He highlighted that Tamil culture connects centuries together, learning from history and guiding the present towards the future.