Guwahati: Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated a substantial portion of the 135th edition of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat to celebrating inspiring initiatives from the Northeast, applauding community-driven efforts in Assam, Meghalaya and Nagaland that have gained recognition for conservation, cultural preservation and sports development.
Commending Assam’s remarkable conservation journey, Modi spoke about the transformation of the Greater Adjutant stork, locally known as Hargila, from a neglected bird to a symbol of environmental awareness and community participation.
He credited local residents, particularly women-led groups, for playing a pivotal role in protecting the endangered species. Their sustained efforts, he said, have not only helped revive the Hargila population but have also turned the conservation campaign into an internationally recognised model of community-led wildlife protection.
Shifting focus to Meghalaya, the Prime Minister praised the state’s iconic living root bridges, describing them as a priceless part of India’s natural and cultural heritage. Referring to India’s proposal to secure UNESCO World Heritage recognition for the bio-engineered structures, he said the bridges represent an extraordinary blend of human ingenuity and nature.
Explaining their uniqueness, Modi noted that the bridges take decades to develop as tree roots are carefully guided over generations to create natural pathways. He also appreciated the local communities that continue to preserve more than 120 living root bridges despite increasing environmental challenges, including climate change.
The Prime Minister made special mention of Padma awardee Hally War, recognising his decades-long contribution to conserving these remarkable living structures and promoting awareness about Meghalaya’s ecological heritage.
Nagaland’s grassroots sporting initiatives also featured prominently in the Prime Minister’s address. Modi praised the Nagaland Baby League for introducing thousands of children to football at an early age, describing it as an outstanding initiative that nurtures confidence, teamwork and sporting talent.
He also lauded the Nagaland Women’s Futsal League, calling it an important platform that empowers young women through sport and creates opportunities for them to excel. Modi expressed hope that similar initiatives would be replicated across other states.
By highlighting these success stories from Assam, Meghalaya and Nagaland, the Prime Minister underscored the Northeast’s growing contribution to wildlife conservation, cultural preservation and grassroots sports, bringing the region’s community-led achievements into the national spotlight.