New Delhi, May 31 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday spoke about the return of rare Chola-era copper plates to India from the Netherlands, describing the development as a "moment of immense pride" for the country.
He also emphasised the importance of preserving India's rich heritage and encouraged young people to cultivate an interest in astronomy and scientific exploration.
Speaking during the 134th episode of his monthly radio programme, Mann Ki Baat, the Prime Minister recalled his recent visit to the Netherlands and said, "In a special ceremony held in the Netherlands, ancient copper plates from the Chola period were returned to India. The Prime Minister of the Netherlands was also present at the event. I have been receiving continuous messages from India and abroad regarding these copper plates. People are sharing joy and expressing pride. The Tamil community around the world is also particularly enthusiastic about this."
The Prime Minister noted that the return of the artefacts had generated widespread interest among people both in India and abroad, prompting curiosity about their historical significance.
"Hence, today I would like to share some information related to them. These include 21 large and 3 small copper plates. They primarily relate to King Rajendra Chola I, fulfilling a vow made by his father, King Rajaraja Chola. They mention the donation of the village of Anaimangalam to a Buddhist monastery," he said.
PM Modi explained that the inscriptions offer valuable insights into the achievements and influence of the Chola dynasty, particularly its maritime strength and international engagements.
"These copper plates also describe the achievements of the Chola dynasty. They reveal how formidable the Chola Empire's maritime power was. They also provide information about their relations with Southeast Asian countries. All of us are very proud of the Chola Empire's rich history and culture," he said.
The Prime Minister stated that the Union government continues to make sustained efforts to preserve and protect India's invaluable historical heritage and cultural legacy.
Referring to another significant archaeological discovery, he said that three rare copper plates had recently been unearthed in Malhar, Chhattisgarh, under the Gyan Bharatam Abhiyan.
Providing further details, PM Modi said the newly discovered inscriptions are believed to belong to the period of Maharishi Balarjun of the Panduvanshi dynasty.
"Experts believe that these inscriptions date back to the sixth-seventh centuries, meaning fourteen hundred to fifteen hundred years old. These copper plates are written in ancient Brahmi script and the Pali language. They provide important information about the governance, religion and culture of that time," he said.
Shifting his focus to India's long-standing fascination with astronomy, the Prime Minister observed that interest in the study of the skies has been deeply rooted in Indian civilisation for centuries.
"We Indians have always had a special fascination for astronomy. Centuries-old observatories still exist in our country. Amazing mathematical discoveries have been made here. Be it navigation, the almanack, or our festivals, all of these are related to the sky and the stars," he said.
PM Modi noted that astronomy continues to inspire curiosity among people, particularly the younger generation, and has encouraged exploration and scientific thinking across the country.
"You, too, must have noticed that astronomy clubs are becoming increasingly popular across the country. Their activities are visible from big cities to small towns, from schools to parks," he said.
The Prime Minister highlighted the work being carried out by several organisations that are promoting astronomy and scientific learning among young people. Referring to the Bangalore Astronomical Society, he said observational sessions are regularly conducted, and efforts are being made to popularise astronomy in rural areas.
"This organisation has also launched a mission to popularise astronomy in rural areas. A team called 'Khagol Mandal' has started a very innovative 30-hour course," he said.
PM Modi also mentioned the activities of Astro Keralam, which organises night observation camps and workshops to encourage learning through practical experience.
He further referred to the work of the Big Bang Astronomy Club, which has organised astronomy-related events in locations ranging from the Gir forests to the Rann of Kutch.
The Prime Minister also praised the efforts of Jyotirvidya Parisanstha, describing it as one of the country's oldest astronomy institutions that provides observation facilities as well as access to books and telescopes.
In addition, he highlighted the contribution of ISAAC, a nationwide student-led network that connects astronomy and astrophysics clubs across India.
Concluding his remarks, PM Modi said, "It is very important to take out time for your hobby and constantly learn something new. I would urge the youth to join an astronomy club and visit a planetarium during these holidays."
--IANS
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