New Delhi [India], June 29 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised Patoda village in Maharashtra's Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar district for becoming a model carbon-neutral gram panchayat through sustainable practices and community effort.

'A village in Maharashtra has set a remarkable example,' said the Prime Minister in the 123rd episode of his monthly radio address Mann Ki Baat. 'Patoda is a gram panchayat that is carbon neutral. No one here throws garbage outside their home. There is a complete system for collecting waste from every household.'

PM Modi elaborated on the village's holistic waste management and eco-friendly traditions.

'Wastewater is treated before being released into the river. Last rites are performed using cow dung cakes, and the ashes are used to plant a tree in the name of the deceased. The cleanliness in this village is truly commendable. When small habits become a collective resolve, significant change becomes inevitable,' he said.

Following the PM's address, the Union Ministry of Panchayati Raj took to its social media platform X to post, 'Gram Panchayats are inspired to work with even greater dedication and renewed enthusiasm.'

'The inspiring words of the Hon'ble Prime Minister energise Gram Panchayats across the country to embrace innovative practices. The Ministry of Panchayati Raj continues to encourage and showcase such success stories through various incentivisation measures, helping them become role models for others. Gram Panchayats everywhere are stepping forward with fresh commitment,' the Ministry said.

Meanwhile, PM Modi highlighted a major achievement of India in his monthly radio address Mann Ki Baat, proudly stating that the World Health Organisation (WHO) has praised the country's efforts in achieving 'Trachoma-free' status.

In his address to the nation through the 123rd edition of his monthly radio program 'Mann ki Baat' PM Modi credited the success to frontline health workers.

In his address to the nation through the 123rd edition of his monthly radio program 'Mann ki Baat', PM Modi credited the success to frontline health workers.

'We resolved to eliminate trachoma and I am delighted to share with you that WHO has declared India as Trachoma-free. This is the result of the efforts of millions of people who tirelessly fought this disease without stopping. This success belongs to our health workers. The 'Swatch Bharat Abhiyan' also played a major role in its elimination. 'Jal Jeevan Mission' also contributed significantly to this success. Now that clean water is reaching every household through taps, the risk of such diseases has reduced significantly. WHO has also appreciated that India not only dealt with the disease but also addressed its root causes,' he said.

Trachoma, a bacterial eye infection that can lead to blindness if untreated, was once prevalent in several parts of India.

He said, 'The first achievement is related to our health. Many of you people might have heard about an eye disease - Trachoma. This disease spreads through bacteria, and there was a time when this disease was common in many parts of India. If neglected, this disease eventually causes blindness.'

On October 8, 2024, the WHO declared that the Government of India has eliminated Trachoma as a public health problem. (ANI)