NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Pongal celebrations at New Delhi. Extending greetings in Tamil, PM 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 PM 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. PM 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 PM highlighted that during the Kashi Tamil Sangamam in Varanasi, he constantly felt and remained connected with the energy of cultural unity. He 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, PM Modi emphasized that the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat which he often speaks of is further strengthened by festivals like Pongal.

The PM remarked that almost all civilizations in the world celebrate some festival connected with crops. He highlighted that in Tamil culture, the farmer is regarded as the foundation of life. PM Modi noted that Thirukkural contains extensive writings on agriculture and farmers. He emphasized that farmers are strong partners in nation-building and that their efforts are giving great strength to the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. The PM underlined that the Union Government is also committed to continuously working towards empowering farmers.

PM 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. PM 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 PM stated that the government is continuously working to make agriculture more sustainable and environmentally friendly. He 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. PM 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 PM 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 PM Modi. He highlighted that Tamil culture connects centuries together, learning from history and guiding the present towards the future. The PM stated that inspired by this, today’s India is drawing strength from its roots and moving forward towards new possibilities. He observed that on the sacred occasion of Pongal, we are experiencing the very faith that is propelling India ahead—a nation that is connected to its culture, respects its land, and is filled with confidence about its future. The PM concluded by extending greetings in Tamil and once again conveyed his best wishes to all on Pongal, expressing his gratitude.