PM Modi’s ‘Mann Ki Baat’: A Warning Against Digital Scams and a Call to Honor Sardar Patel, Birsa Munda
In the latest edition of his monthly radio address, ‘Mann Ki Baat,’ Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a cautionary message to citizens regarding the surge in “digital arrest scams.” Alongside this warning, he urged the nation to join hands in celebrating the 150th birth anniversaries of two legendary figures, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Birsa Munda, whose legacies of unity and courage continue to inspire generations of Indians.
Rising Digital Arrest Scams: PM Modi’s Alert to Citizens
Prime Minister Modi highlighted an alarming increase in digital frauds, where scammers falsely claim to be officials and threaten individuals with “digital arrests” unless they pay a ransom or divulge sensitive information. In these scams, victims receive fake calls or messages claiming that their data has been compromised or that they have committed an offense. The scammers then attempt to extract money or personal information by instilling fear of an arrest.
Modi urged citizens to remain vigilant and cautious about such fraudulent schemes, emphasizing that no genuine government agency would ever demand payments or sensitive information over phone calls or messages. “Stay alert, and always verify the authenticity of any digital communication,” Modi said, reminding the public to safeguard themselves from falling prey to these cybercriminals.
The Prime Minister also encouraged citizens to report any suspicious digital activities to authorities to help curb the menace of cybercrime. In a world where digital dependency is increasing, Modi’s message serves as a timely reminder for every Indian to prioritize digital safety.
Celebrating the 150th Birth Anniversaries of Sardar Patel and Birsa Munda
Apart from cautioning against digital scams, PM Modi’s address also celebrated the legacy of two towering figures in India’s history — Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Birsa Munda. As the nation approaches the 150th birth anniversaries of these icons, Modi urged citizens to honor their contributions and draw inspiration from their lives.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel: Known as the “Iron Man of India,” Sardar Patel played a monumental role in uniting India post-independence. His efforts in integrating princely states into the Indian Union have left an indelible mark on the nation’s history. PM Modi called on the public to celebrate Patel’s legacy on October 31, which is also observed as National Unity Day (Rashtriya Ekta Diwas). “Let us remember Sardar Patel’s vision for a strong and united India,” Modi said, adding that Patel’s contributions laid the foundation for the cohesive nation we see today.
Birsa Munda: Birsa Munda, a tribal leader and freedom fighter, is revered as a symbol of resistance against British oppression and is celebrated for his contributions to tribal rights in India. Born in Jharkhand, Birsa Munda’s struggle against colonial exploitation and his advocacy for the rights of indigenous people have made him a hero, especially among tribal communities. PM Modi encouraged citizens to celebrate Birsa Munda’s anniversary on November 15, marking the day as an occasion to honor tribal heritage and the sacrifices made by Munda for social justice.
Modi emphasized that remembering these leaders is not just a tribute to their legacy but also a way to draw strength from their ideals. He urged educational institutions, government bodies, and social organizations to organize events that highlight the achievements of Patel and Munda, encouraging the younger generation to understand the importance of these figures in India’s history.
A Message of Unity and Awareness
In his address, Modi’s dual message of caution against digital fraud and respect for Indian heroes is a reminder of the need for both vigilance and reverence in today’s world. While urging Indians to stay digitally secure, he also encouraged them to remember the values that icons like Patel and Munda stood for — unity, resilience, and courage.
This ‘Mann Ki Baat’ episode serves as a call to action for every citizen to safeguard their digital presence while celebrating the individuals who laid the foundation of India’s identity. As Modi remarked, “Let us remember our heroes, protect our future, and move forward with strength and unity.”