Mann Ki Baat

Mann Ki Baat Commemorative Stamp: Celebrating a Voice That Connects India

Introduction

Since October 2014, Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has been addressing the nation every month through his flagship radio programme, Mann Ki Baat. What began as an experiment on 3rd October 2014 soon grew into a national tradition, inspiring millions of Indians to take an active role in the country’s developmental journey.

To mark this unique initiative, the Department of Posts proudly issues the Mann Ki Baat Commemorative Stamp, celebrating a programme that has become a symbol of dialogue, inclusivity, and citizen participation in governance.

A Programme That Became a Movement

Over the years, Mann Ki Baat has evolved from a simple radio broadcast into a nationwide movement. With the 100th episode aired in April 2023, the programme continues to stir creative energy, encourage dialogue, and strengthen the bridge between government and citizens.

Through the vast reach of All India Radio, the Prime Minister speaks directly to people across India’s diverse social, cultural, and economic landscape. AIR, the world’s largest broadcasting network, makes this possible through 262 stations in 23 languages and 146 dialects, ensuring even the remotest corners of the country are connected.

Citizen Engagement at the Core

The soul of Mann Ki Baat lies in Janbhagidari citizen participation. From choosing topics to sharing stories and calls-to-action, the programme is shaped around people’s voices. It has become an effective tool of Jan Andolan, inspiring collective action in movements like Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, COVID-19 vaccination, and Har Ghar Tiranga.

Spreading Awareness and Inspiring Change

Mann Ki Baat is not only about governance but also about awareness and education.

• During the COVID-19 crisis, the programme spread information about the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana, ensuring millions knew about free foodgrain distribution.
• Episodes often highlight grassroots success stories, from citizens driving local change to public servants making a difference.
• Important social topics like health, sports, innovation, clean energy, and environment are frequently discussed, widening public awareness.

For instance, in the 95th episode (November 2022), the Prime Minister shed light on Muscular Dystrophy and highlighted institutions working to create awareness around the disorder.

Connecting Culture, Heritage, and National Pride

A hallmark of Mann Ki Baat is its emphasis on India’s cultural roots and heritage. The Prime Minister often speaks about Yoga, Ayurveda, Indian art, and traditions, strengthening their relevance for modern times. In one episode, he highlighted the heritage of step wells, urging citizens to preserve such treasures.

The programme also instills a sense of national pride by showcasing stories of resilience and achievement like congratulating Jammu & Kashmir’s Reasi Block for becoming Open-Defecation Free under the Swachh Bharat Mission.

A Legacy of Dialogue and Democracy

What makes Mann Ki Baat truly unique is its two-way communication. Citizens often write letters or connect via phone calls, and their stories are shared on air. This transparent dialogue strengthens democracy by ensuring people feel heard by their elected leader.

Over 99 episodes spanning 8 years, the programme has become an enduring platform for nation-building, blending themes of social, economic, cultural, and technological development.

Mann Ki Baat Commemorative Stamp

The Mann Ki Baat Commemorative Postage Stamp is more than a philatelic issue it is a tribute to a programme that has reshaped public communication in India. Standing for transparency, accountability, innovation, and citizen engagement, this stamp honors a medium that connects every Indian, from the grassroots to the global stage.

With this issue, the Department of Posts salutes the spirit of Mann Ki Baat—a voice that informs, inspires, and unites India.