By Debananda Medak
GUWAHATI: Addressing the nation in the 14th episode of the radio programme, Maan Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday talked about the devastating Assam floods and prospective of bamboo resources available in the state.
The address is telecast on the last Sunday of every month.
“There is a large part of the country that is grappling with floods. Many areas of states like Bihar and Assam are having to deal with a series of difficulties due to floods. On the one hand, we have Corona and on the other, we have this challenge. In such a scenario, all governments, NDRF teams, disaster response teams and self-help groups are working in tandem to provide relief and rescue in all possible ways,” Modi said.
The Prime Minister asserted that the whole country stands by those affected by this disaster.
Highlighting the bamboo resources of Northeast, particularly in Assam, Modi said, “You surely know of bamboo which grows abundantly in the North East. Now, using the same bamboo, artisans of Tripura, Manipur and Assam have started crafting high-quality water bottles and Tiffin-boxes. If you glance at the craftsmanship of these bottles, you will not believe that bamboo can be used to create such fine products.”
Highlighting that these bamboo products are eco friendly, he said, “Before actually making them, the bamboo is first boiled, adding neem and other medicinal shrubs. Thus, these bottles also acquire medicinal value.”
Modi also remembered the heroes of the Kargil war and said, “It is Kargil Vijay Diwas today. It was on this very day 21 years ago, our Army unfurled the flag of victory in the battle of Kargil. India can never forget the circumstances under which the battle of Kargil took place.”
Stating that the hazards of Corona are far from being over Modi added, “At many places, it is spreading fast. We need to be extra vigilant. We have to bear in mind that Corona is as fatal today as it was in the beginning – that’s why we have to be fully cautious.”
Following the PM’s address, state’s chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal said, “Bamboo, the green gold, is a resource which is helping the Northeast script a new chapter in the development of local industries with global products. Let us be more about the use of this eco-friendly material.”
Photo Credit: AIR
