PM Modi addresses Pongal celebrations in New Delhi, hails Tamil culture and farmers

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday addressed the Pongal celebrations in New Delhi, describing the harvest festival as a symbol of gratitude towards farmers, nature and the Sun, and underlining that Tamil culture is a shared heritage of the entire nation.

Extending Pongal greetings in Tamil, the Prime Minister said the festival has today become a global celebration, observed with enthusiasm by Tamil communities and admirers of Tamil culture across the world. He said it was a matter of pride and fortune for him to celebrate Pongal with people from different walks of life in the national capital.

Shri Modi noted that Pongal reflects balance in nature, family and society, and embodies thankfulness towards the earth and the toil of farmers. He also pointed out that at this time of the year, several parts of the country are celebrating harvest festivals such as Lohri, Makar Sankranti and Magh Bihu, reflecting India’s cultural unity in diversity.

Recalling his recent engagements with Tamil culture, the Prime Minister referred to his visit to the thousand-year-old Gangaikonda Cholapuram temple, participation in the Kashi Tamil Sangamam, and his visit to Rameswaram during the inauguration of the Pamban Bridge. He said these experiences reinforced the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, which is strengthened through festivals like Pongal.

Highlighting the central place of farmers in Tamil culture, Shri Modi said the Thirukkural speaks extensively about agriculture and the dignity of farmers. He described farmers as key partners in nation-building and said their contribution is strengthening the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. He added that the Union Government remains committed to empowering farmers.

The Prime Minister said Pongal inspires people to make respect for nature a way of life, stressing the need to preserve soil, conserve water and use resources responsibly for future generations. He cited initiatives such as Mission LiFE, Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam and Amrit Sarovar as steps in this direction.

Emphasising sustainable agriculture, Shri Modi said practices such as natural farming, water management under the ‘Per Drop, More Crop’ initiative, agritech and value addition will play a crucial role in the future. He lauded the growing participation of youth in sustainable farming and urged young farmers to expand efforts towards an agricultural revolution that ensures food security, economic well-being and environmental safety.

Describing Tamil culture as one of the world’s most ancient living civilizations, the Prime Minister said it draws strength from history while guiding the present towards the future. He concluded by extending his heartfelt Pongal wishes in Tamil and expressing gratitude to all present.