Sun Aug 31 07:00:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation in his “Mann Ki Baat” broadcast, expressing sorrow over the widespread devastation caused by recent floods and landslides across India. He praised the efforts of rescue teams and highlighted the resilience of the nation, particularly noting positive events in Jammu and Kashmir despite the natural disasters. Modi also announced the launch of “Pratibha Setu,” a digital platform to support UPSC exam aspirants who narrowly missed the final merit list, aiming to connect them with future opportunities.
**News Article:**
**Modi Expresses Grief Over Flood Devastation, Announces Support for UPSC Aspirants**
**New Delhi, August 31, 2025** – Prime Minister Narendra Modi today expressed his deep sorrow and concern over the widespread devastation caused by recent floods and landslides across India, stating that natural disasters are “testing the country.” In his 125th “Mann Ki Baat” address, Modi acknowledged the loss of homes, the submerging of fields, and the destruction of entire families.
The Prime Minister lauded the efforts of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and security forces for their tireless rescue efforts, utilizing technology such as thermal cameras, drone surveillance, and sniffer dogs to aid in relief operations. He thanked local communities, social workers, doctors, and the administration for their contributions during the crisis.
Despite the widespread devastation, Modi highlighted two significant achievements in Jammu and Kashmir: the first day-night cricket match in Pulwama and the “Khelo India Water Sports Festival” at Dal Lake in Srinagar, emphasizing the region’s resilience and progress.
In a move aimed at supporting aspiring civil servants, Modi announced the launch of “Pratibha Setu,” a digital platform designed to connect UPSC exam candidates who narrowly missed the final merit list with future opportunities. The platform will store data on talented youth who cleared all stages of the UPSC exams but didn’t make the final cut, creating a valuable databank for potential employers and other opportunities. He described the UPSC exam as one of the most challenging competitive tests in the country and referred to the inspiring journeys of several aspirants.
The Prime Minister’s address was followed by Union Ministers and BJP MPs across the country.
First Piper 