New Delhi: In his latest 'Mann Ki Baat' address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi warned citizens about a concerning new “digital arrest” scam in which fraudsters impersonate law enforcement officials to steal personal and financial information. Modi advised people not to panic when faced with such calls, and instead to report incidents to the national cyber helpline at 1930 or through cybercrime.gov.in. He highlighted that criminals use intimidation tactics, including appearing on video calls in official-looking uniforms and settings, to create fear among victims. Modi outlined steps for protection, advising people to "Stop, Think, and Take Action" to counteract these scams effectively. He added that India’s National Cyber Coordination Centre has blocked thousands of fraudulent video calling IDs, SIM cards, and bank accounts, but urged citizens to remain vigilant.
Modi also spoke about his upcoming visit to Ulihatu village in Jharkhand, birthplace of Bhagwan Birsa Munda, as part of events commemorating Munda’s birth anniversary on 15 November. Celebrations will also mark the 150th anniversary of Sardar Patel from 31 October, with events both within India and abroad. Modi touched on India’s growing impact in digital and cultural sectors, mentioning the popularity of Indian animation and VR tourism showcasing sites like the Ajanta caves and Konark temple. He noted an increasing demand for skilled creators in animation, gaming, and virtual tourism.
Reflecting on India’s achievements, Modi celebrated milestones like becoming the world’s second-largest mobile phone manufacturer and advancing from a defence equipment buyer to exporter. He also referenced the recent inauguration of Asia’s largest Imaging Telescope MACE in Ladakh, urging people to contribute stories of self-reliance.
Modi praised individuals dedicated to preserving Indian culture, such as Firdousa Bashir from Jammu & Kashmir for her calligraphy, Gorinath from Udhampur for Dogra culture, D. Vaikuntham for promoting Cheriyal folk art, and Butluram Mathra from Chhattisgarh for his work with Abujhmadia tribal art. He acknowledged Indian cultural influence abroad, including performances of traditional works like Kalidasa’s Abhijnana Shakuntalam in Russia and translated Indian epics in Arabic by Kuwaiti Abdullah Al-Barun. Modi encouraged citizens to stay active with winter approaching and extended festival wishes for Dhanteras, Diwali, Chhath Puja, and Guru Nanak Jayanti.
BI Bureau
