Governor Mangubhai Patel has praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Mann Ki Baat programme, calling it a rich source of wisdom, knowledge, and culture. He emphasized that the programme highlights inspiring initiatives and events from across the country, motivating students and instilling enthusiasm. Governor Patel noted that small habits, as discussed in Mann Ki Baat, could lead to significant changes and described the programme as a treasure trove of wisdom that should be incorporated into students' lives regularly. He urged all university students in Madhya Pradesh, as well as students from classes 9 to 12 in Eklavya Adarsh Residential Schools, to actively participate in the programme.
These comments were made during an interaction with teachers and students at Eklavya Adarsh Residential School in Bhopal. The Governor visited the school to listen to Mann Ki Baat alongside the students and also inspected the school's girls' hostel.
Governor Patel further likened Mann Ki Baat to an ocean contained in a pitcher, rich in depth and meaning. He described it as a source of life mantras, offering valuable guidance for leading a meaningful life. According to the Governor, the programme highlights outstanding initiatives and success stories, providing concise yet impactful knowledge on a wide range of topics. He praised the programme for not only showing the right direction in life but also for providing solutions to many challenges. The Governor added that Mann Ki Baat provides valuable insights into rural livelihoods, development initiatives, and public welfare efforts.
In addition, the Governor urged officials of all PESA (Panchayat Extension to Scheduled Areas) Gram Sabhas in the state to organize meetings on the day of the programme's broadcast. He recommended that members listen together, which would provide them with a clearer understanding of the direction of village development and welfare efforts, fostering collective motivation and action for progress.
Governor Patel emphasized that true knowledge is enriched with values. He noted that being highly educated is not enough on its own; it is equally important to lead a life rooted in responsibility and good conduct. He highlighted the importance of consciously developing a cultured life from an early age.
He urged the teachers, administrators, and students at the residential school to dedicate themselves to this effort. The Governor stressed the importance of starting the day with good routines, such as waking up at sunrise, cleaning one’s room, taking a bath, meditating, and starting studies after breakfast.
Upon arriving at Eklavya Adarsh Residential School, Governor Patel paid tribute to the legendary tribal hero Eklavya by offering flowers at his statue. He was welcomed with a Tulsi plant and a bouquet, and a tribal artwork was presented to him as a memento. The event began with the traditional lighting of the lamp, followed by a musical rendition of a welcome song performed by the girl students of the school.
Shri Sudhir Kumar Jain, Additional Director of Tribal Affairs, delivered the welcome address, highlighting that Madhya Pradesh is home to 63 of the 690 Eklavya schools across the country. He also shared the academic achievements of the school’s students, noting that 63 students from the school’s NEET and JEE preparation programme have qualified for NEET, and six students have been selected for JEE. The school's Principal, Shri Amrit Jharia, expressed his gratitude for the Governor’s visit.