It is our culture to respect women, says PM Modi in his first Mann ki Baat of 2018

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his first "Mann ki Baat" of the year 2018 spoke on a number of issues starting with women empowerment. Citing scriptures, he emphasised that it is in our culture to respect women.

Since the age when the Vedas were composed by women, 'nari shakti' has set numerous milestones and continues to play a pioneering role, the PM observed.

"Let me tell you that one daughter is equal to ten sons... The punya (good) we get from 10 sons, we get that from one daughter," said Modi.

While mentioning about women's achievements in various fields he remembered astronaut Kalpana Chawla.

Chawla, who was the first woman of Indian origin in space, died on February 1, 2003, in the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster. She was posthumously awarded the Congressional Space Medal of Honor.

This edition of PM's radio programme through which he addresses the nation was the 40th edition ever since he started this practice in the year 2014.

"Women are advancing in many fields, emerging as leaders. Today there are many sectors where our woman power is playing a pioneering role, establishing milestones," the PM said.

He mentioned examples of Matunga railway station in Mumbai, which is being completely run by women and women in Dantewada, Chhatisgarh who drive e-rickshaws to earn their livelihood. "Dantewada area in Chhatisgarh, which a Maoist affected region, where Maoists have created an environment of fear. In such an area women are driving e-ricksahws and becoming self-sufficient," he said.

He also spoke about the importance of Padma Awards and Gandhi Jayanti. This year's Padma Awards had a number of rare achievers from distant parts of the country, who were recognised for their distinctive work, like a 75-year-old woman Lakshmikutty from Kerala who prepares herbal medicines and treats thousands of people.

Speaking about Padma awards, he said "I am sure you all felt proud after reading about the Padma Awards. We have honoured those who may not be seen in big cities but have done transformative work for society."

On 30th January we observe the Punya Tithi of Bapu. Peace and non-violence is what Bapu taught us. His ideals are extremely relevant today.

With Mahatma Gandhi's death anniversary falling on January 30, he said no tribute to him can be bigger than following the path shown by him.