New Delhi [India], April 26 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday highlighted wildlife conservation efforts which have enabled the return of blackbucks in Chhattisgarh, stressing the need for harmony between humans and nature.
In his monthly radio programme, the 133rd edition of Mann Ki Baat, the Prime Minister noted the return of blackbucks in Chhattisgarh, saying their population had once declined but has now seen a revival due to sustained conservation efforts.
"Blackbucks have reappeared in Chhattisgarh. Their numbers had once dwindled, but persistent efforts led to increased conservation. Today, they are once again seen roaming the open plains. This marks the return of our lost heritage," he said.
PM Modi also spoke about renewed efforts to conserve the Great Indian Bustard, describing it as a symbol of India's desert ecology.
"This bird used to be a hallmark of our desert regions. However, at one point, its numbers had dwindled significantly. The situation was so dire that it was on the verge of extinction," he said.
Highlighting ongoing conservation measures, he added, "But now a major campaign is underway for its conservation. Scientific methods are being adopted. Breeding centers have been established, and now new life is beginning to emerge."
Emphasising ecological balance, the Prime Minister said, "Friends, nature and humans are not separate. We are each other's partners. When we understand nature, respect it, and live in harmony with it, change is clearly visible. Today, this change is emerging as a new hope from every corner of the country."
PM also highlighted inspiring stories of nature conservation from across the country, saying such efforts bring hope and pride.
Sharing examples of environmental conservation, PM Modi spoke about the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat, where seasonal changes transform the landscape into a vibrant habitat for migratory birds.
"During the last few years, inspiring stories of nature conservation have emerged from different parts of the country. These stories give us hope and fill us with pride. I want to share some examples with the listeners of 'Mann Ki Baat'," he said.
Referring to the Rann of Kutch, he added, "As soon as the monsoons end, the land here comes alive. Every year, lakhs of flamingos arrive here. The entire area turns pink, hence the name 'Flamingo City'. These birds build their nests and raise their young ones here. The people of Kutch call them 'Lakhha Ji Ke Baaraati'. Now, Lakha ji Ke Baaraati have become beautiful symbols of environmental conservation in Kutch."
The Prime Minister also highlighted efforts in Uttar Pradesh's Terai region, where human-wildlife conflict is being managed through community participation. "In the Terai region, herds of elephants approach villages during the harvest season. This increases the risk of conflict," he said.
Explaining local initiatives, he added, "However, efforts like 'Gaj Mitra' have now begun in Uttar Pradesh as well. Villagers themselves form teams to monitor elephants. They alert people in time. This is reducing conflict and increasing public trust."
PM Modi said such examples reflect growing awareness and cooperation between humans and nature, strengthening conservation efforts across the country.
PM Modi also hailed India's performance at the International Cheese competition in Brazil, securing two wins, and recognised this global achievement as significant for India's dairy sector.
This year, India made an impressive international debut. Country's cheesemakers secured a Super Gold, two Gold medals, and a Silver accolade at the fourth edition of the Mundial do Queijo do Brasil, also known as the Brazilian World Cheese Championship.
Addressing the nation in Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi said that called Cheese a part of our tradition and emphasised the diversity of cheese in India.
He highlighted the developments in India's dairy sector and said that the "taste of Bharat is reaching plates around the world."
The prestigious cheese and dairy competition, held in São Paulo, Brazil, saw participation from over 30 countries. The Indian artisanal products were evaluated by a panel of 350 judges, underscoring the high global standards of the event. This year's performance represents a significant milestone for India's artisanal dairy sector on the world stage.