In his 29th edition of Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday congratulated the Indian Space Research Organisation for sending 104 satellites into space at the same time on February 15. Stating that India had created history with this feat, Modi said Isro’s cost-effective space programme had become a “marvel” for the entire world.

The prime minister said India’s satellite Cartosat-2D will be beneficial for the country’s farmers. Modi also heaped praises for the test-firing of the Ballistic Interceptor Missile. “Only four of five countries have the capability to do this and our scientists have achieved it,” he said, adding that the missile can defeat an enemy missile, even in outer space.

Modi said he was happy that more and more young scientists, including female scientists, had led the programme. India needs more scientists for its development to continue, he added.

Stressing on digital transactions once again, Modi said Lucky Grahak and Digidhan Vyapari have proven to be very successful. “Over 100 people have received Rs 1 lakh as rewards,” Modi said. He said those engaging in digital transactions were the “soldiers of the anti-corruption cadre”. He asked the listeners to teach at least 125 people to use Bhim App to commemorate Dr Ambedkar’s birthday on April 14.

The prime minister said farmers’ hard work had helped in producing record 2,700 lakh tonnes food grains this year.

Modi congratulated the Women’s Rugby teams who won silver at the Asian Rugby Sevens Trophy and the disabled athletes who won at the Rio Paralympics. He also congratulated the Indian team for winning the Blind T-20 World Cup.