Addressing this year's first episode of "Mann ki Baat" radio talk, the Prime Minister also lauded the progress women have made in several spheres, saying with resolve and willpower "nothing is impossible".

"A daughter is equivalent to 10 sons. The ‘punya' you earn through 10 sons is equalled by one daughter. This underscores the importance given to women in our society. That is why, in our society, women have the status of Shakti.

"This woman power binds together society, the family, on the axis of unity. Be it the erudition of the vidushis of Vedic period. Woman power has always inspired us. They have always brought glory to the nation," he said referring to Gargi, Maitreyee, Meerabai, Ahilyabai Holkar and Rani Lakshmi Bai.

He referred to astronaut Kalpana Chawla. 

"It's a matter of sorrow that we lost Kalpana at that early age. Her life, her work is a message to young women across the world, especially in India, that there are no upper limits for Nari Shakti…. 

"If one possesses will, determination, a firm resolve, nothing is impossible."

The Prime Minister said Matunga in Mumbai was the first railway station in India managed by women. 

He also touched upon the daredevil stunts by the BSF women contingent on Republic Day. He said tribal women from Maoist dens in Chhattisgarh were now self reliant by driving e-rickshaws.

Modi lauded the Padma Awardees and said many of them marked themselves out "without any recommendation".

"You will see what a great number of people exist among us. And it is a matter of pride how so many of them are reaching great heights without any recommendation."

Now, he said, anyone can nominate anyone for the award. 

"There is transparency now in the selection process... More and more ordinary people are getting the awards. Such people who usually are not seen in metros, newspapers, TVs."

Lauding Sitavaa Jodatti from Karnataka and Kerala's Lakshmikutti, Modi said there were many gifted women and men who remain faceless and failure to recognize them would be a loss to the society.

The Prime Minister said the path of peace preached by Mahatma Gandhi was valid for every individual, family and society.

Lauding the government's Jan Aushadhi Centres, he said medicines available at over 3,000 centres were 50 to 90 per cent cheaper than branded drugs in the market.

"The sole aim behind this step is ensuring availability of quality and affordable health service to the poorest of the poor." 

He lauded the efforts of the thousands in Akola who he said were continuing to clean the Morna river in Maharashtra.

"Huge social reforms can be brought about through mass movements. This will inspire other citizens too."

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