Prime Minister Narendra Modi has appealed to the countrymen to discharge civic duties and responsibilities so that the foundation of a ‘new India’— marked by good governance and free of corruption — is laid. “A new India is neither a government programme, nor is it the manifesto of a political party. It is not a project. It is a dream being nurtured by 125 crore countrymen. If every citizen resolves to obey traffic rules and discharge his/her duties honestly, it is possible to realise this dream in our life time,” he said during his ‘Mann ki Baat’ radio address on Sunday.

The prime minister also focussed on increasing cashless transactions and urged people to undertake at least 2,500 crore digital transactions this year. “We must take our fight against black money and corruption to the next level. In essence, every citizen must discharge his civic duties and responsibilities. Today, as we live in the 21st century, which Indian wouldn’t want to see India change? which Indian wouldn’t want to be a partner in the transformation of the country?” he said.

Ahead of the World Health Day on April 7, Modi called for creating a psychologically conducive environment to help those suffering from depression. “The theme of this year’s World Health Day is depression. It is not incurable. Devote yourself with all your heart into helping others and sharing their joys and sorrows. You will find that along with it, your own inner sufferings will go on disappearing,” he said.

The prime minister also extended “heartfelt greetings” to the people of Bangladesh on the occasion of their Independence Day. “I assure the citizens of Bangladesh that India is a strong partner, and a good friend. We will continue to work together shoulder to shoulder to contribute towards peace, security and development of this entire region,” he said.