India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor to become basis of world trade: PM

"India has suggested another economic corridor in the G20 Summit, and history will always remember that this corridor was initiated on Indian soil. The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor will become the basis of world trade for hundreds of years to come," Modi said in the 105th episode of his monthly radio talk show "Mann Ki Baat".

Referring to the "successful" conduct of the G20 Summit, the Prime Minister said: "India has proved the mettle of her leadership by making Africa Union a full member of G20".

"After the success of Chandrayaan3, the grand hosting of G20 doubled the joy of every Indian," he said.

Further, speaking about the G20 University Connect Programme, the Prime Minister urged college students to participate in it.

Many prestigious institutions like IITs, IITs, NITs, and Medical Colleges will also participate in the G20 University Connect Programme on September 26. The Prime Minister said he will also take part in the event.

"In this, many interesting exchanges are going to take place on the future of India and on the future of the youth. I am also waiting to communicate with our college students," he said.

Modi said he has received several letters from the citizens, largely on two subjects - the successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 and the G-20 Summit.

He said more than one lakh delegates came to India for the G-20 and got acquainted with the diversity, different traditions, different types of cuisines as also the country's heritage.

Recently, Shantiniketan - the seat of learning in West Bengal - and the Hoysala temples of Karnataka were included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The total number of world heritage properties in India has now reached 42.

"The number of world heritage sites in India is continuously rising. I congratulate all the countrymen for this wonderful achievement" Modi said.

On September 27, World Tourism Day will be celebrated. Modi said the fascination for India has risen a lot over the last few years. After the successful organization of the G-20, the world's interest in India has grown further.

"A big aspect of tourism is related to employment. I urge all of you that whenever you plan to travel somewhere, try to see the diversity of India" he said.

The PM also spoke about the significance of books, and hailed the efforts of Uttarakhand's 'Ghoda library'. He said: "The biggest feature of this library is reaching children even in the most remote areas, and not only this, the service is absolutely free. Till now 12 villages of Nainital have been covered through this".

Modi also urged parents to ask children to read books. “It is true that today's era is of digital technology and e-Books, but still books always play the role of a good friend in our lives. Hence, we should motivate children to read books" he said.

A big event on cleanliness will be organised on October 1, Sunday, at 10 am. "You too should take out time and help in this campaign related to cleanliness," the PM said.

"This Karyanjali of cleanliness itself will be the true tribute to Gandhiji. I would like to remind you again that on this occasion of Gandhi Jayanti, make it a point to buy some Khadi products," he said.

PM Modi urged citizens to buy and gift only 'Made in India' products during the festive season. "In this atmosphere of fervour and enthusiasm, you must also remember the mantra of Vocal for Local," Modi said.

Mentioning that nowadays, many start-ups are also promoting local products, Modi said If people buy local articles, the youths running such start-ups will also benefit".

(With UNI inputs)