Channapatna in K'taka emerging as toy cluster: PM Modi in MKB

New Delhi: Addressing the nation in his monthly radio programme, Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said India has the talent and ability to become a toy hub for the entire world and called upon startups to work towards realising this potential while being “vocal about local toys”.

Stating that toys not only augment activity levels in children but also instils dreams, aspirations Modi pitched for making India a toy hub and called upon start-up entrepreneurs to ”team up for toys’

“Some parts of India developing also as toy clusters, that is, as centres of toys. Like, Channapatna in Ramnagaram (Karnataka), Kondaplli in Krishna (Andhra Pradesh), Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu, Dhubri in Assam, Varanasi in UP there are many such places, we can count many names. There has been a rich tradition of local toys in our country. There are many talented and skilled artisans who possess expertise in making good toys,” said PM Modi

The global toy industry is over Rs 7 lakh crore but India’s share is very small, said Modi as he stressed on the need to work to increase it.

The prime minister also said people have shown an unprecedented restraint and simplicity in their festivals during the COVID-19 pandemic. He also hailed farmers for increase in sowing area for different grains.

“This is a time for festivals but at the same time, there is also a sense of discipline among people due to the COVID-19 situation…There is a close link between nature and our festivals,” Modi said.

He also asked young entrepreneurs to develop computer games in and also about India.

In his address, Modi also noted that India will complete its 75 years of Independence in 2022 and suggested a host of measures to teachers to help bring to light contributions of thousands and lakhs of “unsung heroes” of the freedom struggle.

It is important that our youngsters are aware of them, he said.