Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday expressed deep anguish over the widespread destruction caused by floods and landslides in parts of North India, saying natural disasters are once again testing the resilience of the nation.
In his 125th "Mann Ki Baat" address, the prime minister described the devastation, homes swept away, fields submerged, bridges broken, and roads destroyed, as a tragedy that has left every Indian saddened. He lauded the tireless efforts of NDRF, SDRF, armed forces, and local volunteers who risked their lives to rescue and provide relief.
“From thermal cameras and live detectors to drone surveillance, our soldiers used every possible technology. Relief material was dropped by helicopters, the injured were airlifted, and countless lives were saved. I thank every citizen who stepped forward in this crisis,” Modi said.
Amid the calamity, he also highlighted two significant achievements in Jammu & Kashmir: Pulwama’s first-ever day-night cricket match and the country’s maiden ‘Khelo India Water Sports Festival’ at Dal Lake, which saw participation from more than 800 athletes, including a large number of women.