Prime Minister Modi addressed the 49th edition of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat Sunday. Remembering freedom fighter Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Prime Minister appealed to the citizens to participate in the 'Run for Unity' on October 31, which marks the birth anniversary of the 'Iron Man of India'. "I appeal each one of you to participate in 'Run for Unity' in largest possible numbers," PM Modi said. He further said, "Sardar Patel's Jayanti this year will be more special as on this day, we'll pay him true homage by dedicating 'Statue of Unity' to the nation. In his address, the prime minister praised the para-athletes, who had represented India in the Asian Para Games recently and said that their spirit to overcome challenges is inspirational. He also evoked India's 'golden history' in hockey and said that the nation has contributed largely to the sport by giving a number of talented players like Dhyanchand, Balvinder Singh Sr, Dhanraj Pillai among others. The PM’s speech was live broadcast on All India Radio and Doordarshan. The YouTube channels of the Prime Minister’s Office, information and broadcasting ministry and allindiaradio.gov.in also aired the speech.
