Modi to let select women take over X, Instagram accounts
What's the story
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a unique initiative for International Women's Day on March 8.
He will hand over the reins of his social media accounts, including X and Instagram, to a select group of inspiring women for the day.
The idea is to highlight their achievements and experiences.
"The platform may be mine, but the stories, achievements, and challenges will be theirs," Modi said.
Previous success
Initiative echoes 2020's successful Women's Day campaign
Notably, this isn't the first time such an initiative has been taken. On International Women's Day in 2020, Modi had given away his social media accounts to seven leading women from different fields.
With millions of followers on X, YouTube, and Instagram, Modi is among the most-followed global leaders on social media.
This makes his initiative a potent platform to amplify women's voices and tell their stories to the world.
Health concerns
Call to action against obesity
Apart from the Women's Day initiative, Modi also spoke about other urgent issues in his Mann Ki Baat broadcast.
He reiterated his call to action against obesity in India, citing research that one in eight people suffers from the condition.
The PM said he was particularly concerned about the quadrupling of obesity cases among children and urged citizens to cut down their oil consumption by 10%.
Science and education
Modi promotes science engagement and exam preparation
Modi also urged citizens to participate in science by trying "one day as a scientist" and visiting research laboratories/planetariums for National Science Day.
Speaking to students preparing for board exams, he asked them to remain "happy and stress-free."
He emphasized the new format of Pariksha Pe Charcha, which features expert insights on exam preparation and mental well-being.