BENGALURU: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday articulated a nine-point, citizen-led development agenda for achieving “Viksit Karnataka” and “Viksit Bharat”, calling for a blend of sustainable practices, cultural rootedness and collective responsibility.Addressing a large gathering at the Sri Aadichunchanagiri Mutt, Modi urged people to take up water conservation and efficient water management as a shared responsibility, noting the region’s dependence on the Cauvery basin. “This land is blessed with Cauvery water, but it is our responsibility to save water and ensure that it is used wisely,” the Prime Minister said. He called on citizens to plant trees in the name of their mothers as part of an environmental awareness drive, while emphasising the importance of maintaining cleanliness across public spaces, villages, cities and religious institutions.Pitching self-reliance as a cornerstone of development, the Prime Minister reiterated the need to support indigenous industries and adopt local products under the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative. He also encouraged citizens to explore different parts of the country to boost domestic tourism and strengthen national integration.Turning to agriculture, Modi appealed to farmers in Mandya — known for its agrarian base — to gradually shift towards chemical-free, natural farming practices, highlighting sustainability and soil health. On lifestyle issues, he flagged rising obesity as a growing concern in India and called for a return to traditional, nutritious diets such as ragi, while suggesting a reduction in oil consumption in daily food habits.He further stressed the need to incorporate yoga, sports and physical activity into everyday life, and underscored the importance of seva (service), stating that serving the needy not only strengthens society but also gives individuals a deeper sense of purpose. He said that collective commitment to these nine principles could significantly accelerate progress towards a developed state and nation.Earlier in the day, Modi inaugurated the Sri Guru Bhairavaikya Mandira at the Sri Aadichunchanagiri Mutt, a major spiritual and educational centre in Karnataka. In the over 1,800-year history of the mutt, Modi is the first sitting Indian Prime Minister to visit the institution, marking a significant moment for its followers.Describing his visit as an emotionally enriching experience, the Prime Minister said that offering prayers, participating in temple ceremonies and receiving the blessings of seers would remain memorable. He highlighted Karnataka as a land that harmoniously combines “tattva gyaan” (philosophical wisdom) and “tantra gyaan” (technological advancement), and praised the mutt for its contributions to education, healthcare and social upliftment, particularly among rural and underprivileged communities.Paying tributes to revered seers, including Balagangadharanatha Mahaswamiji, Modi said such leaders transcended spiritual guidance to actively engage with society, addressing challenges in education and health. He noted that the legacy continues under Nirmalanandanatha Mahaswamiji, who is carrying forward the institution’s traditions with renewed energy and commitment.Modi also touched upon the compassionate ethos of the mutt’s leadership, recalling initiatives such as peacock conservation, which he said reflected a broader cultural and environmental consciousness. He added that such efforts go beyond symbolism and reinforce India’s civilisational values.Reiterating the role of spiritual institutions in nation-building, the Prime Minister said organisations like the Aadichunchanagiri Mahasamsthana serve as pillars of continuity in India’s thousands-year-old civilisation, guiding society through a combination of spirituality, service and social reform.
