PM Modi urges clay Ganesh idols for Utsav, back local artisans
Synopsis
On the 135th episode of Mann Ki Baat, Modi went beyond a routine festival appeal — he issued a direct instruction to skip Plaster of Paris idols entirely and buy only clay figures made by Indian potters, framing it as both an environmental duty and an economic act of self-reliance ahead of Ganesh Utsav.
Key Takeaways
PM Modi appealed for clay Ganesh idols on 28 June during the 135th episode of Mann Ki Baat .
He specifically instructed buyers: 'Do not buy idols made of Plaster of Paris at all.' Clay idols dissolve naturally in water, reducing pollution in rivers and ponds .
The appeal supports the 'Vocal for Local' campaign by directing spending toward Indian potters and craftspeople.
Modi noted that idol-making preparations begin months before the festival, making the timing of the appeal deliberate.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, 28 June called on citizens nationwide to choose clay Ganesh idols crafted by Indian potters and artisans for the upcoming Ganesh Utsav, arguing that the shift would protect water bodies from pollution and energise the government's 'Vocal for Local' campaign. The appeal came during the 135th episode of his monthly radio programme, 'Mann Ki Baat', broadcast from New Delhi.
Why Modi Raised It Now
Modi acknowledged that the festival is still weeks away, but explained that idol-making preparations begin several months in advance. He noted that numerous listeners had written in requesting he address the topic, making it timely to nudge both buyers and craftspeople before orders are placed.
'Many people have written to me suggesting that I speak about a special topic. This topic relates to Ganesh Utsav. Although there is still quite some time left for Ganesh Utsav, people have urged that this subject be discussed right now,' the Prime Minister said.
The Core Appeal: Clay Over Plaster of Paris
Modi directed his message at two audiences simultaneously — buyers and makers. He urged buyers to verify the material and country of origin of every idol they purchase, and issued a pointed instruction: 'Do not buy idols made of Plaster of Paris at all.'
'I urge all of you... Please make an effort to ensure that the idol of Ganpati Bappa installed in your home, society, or neighbourhood is made from the soil of our own country and crafted by the hands of our own potters and local artisans,' he said.
He also asked idol manufacturers to prioritise clay as their primary material, framing it as both an ecological and cultural responsibility.
Environmental Case for Traditional Idols
The Prime Minister highlighted that clay idols dissolve naturally in water after immersion, unlike Plaster of Paris figures, which release harmful chemicals and leave residue in rivers and ponds. 'This helps protect our rivers, ponds, and the environment. It allows us to uphold our faith while also fulfilling our responsibility towards nature,' he said.
This is not the first time Modi has raised the environmental dimension of festival practices through Mann Ki Baat. The programme has previously been used to spotlight eco-friendly Diwali celebrations and single-use plastic reduction during festive seasons.
Vocal for Local: The Broader Economic Message
Beyond ecology, Modi framed the choice of local clay idols as a direct economic intervention for traditional craftspeople. Purchasing from local artisans, he argued, feeds directly into India's handicrafts sector and reinforces the spirit of self-reliance that underpins the 'Vocal for Local' initiative — a campaign the government has promoted since 2020 to boost indigenous products and reduce import dependence.
'When we purchase idols from local artisans, we strengthen the resolve of being Vocal for Local. I am confident that during this Ganesh Utsav, and indeed during every such festival, we will give serious thought to these matters and take steps in the national interest,' he added.
Closing Message
Modi concluded the segment by underscoring the collective power of citizen action, saying the country's greatest strength lies in its people and their small but cumulative efforts toward positive change. As Ganesh Utsav approaches, the appeal is likely to be amplified through state governments and cultural organisations aligned with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Point of View
Environmental messaging, and economic nationalism into a single consumer nudge ahead of one of India's most commercially active festivals. The explicit call to avoid Plaster of Paris, which is often sourced from China, carries an unmistakable import-substitution subtext that the government has stopped short of stating outright. Whether the appeal translates into measurable shifts in idol purchasing is another matter; similar calls in previous years have had limited documented impact on the market share of clay idols versus cheaper alternatives. The real test is whether state governments and municipal bodies back the appeal with procurement policies and artisan support schemes — without that, it risks remaining a well-intentioned radio moment.
NationPress
28 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did PM Modi say about Ganesh Utsav on Mann Ki Baat?
PM Modi urged citizens to buy clay Ganesh idols made by Indian potters and to avoid Plaster of Paris idols entirely, citing environmental harm and the need to support local artisans. He made the appeal on 28 June during the 135th episode of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat.
Why are clay Ganesh idols better for the environment?
Clay idols dissolve naturally in water after immersion, unlike Plaster of Paris idols, which release harmful chemicals and leave residue that pollutes rivers and ponds. Modi specifically highlighted this to encourage eco-friendly festival practices.
What is the 'Vocal for Local' initiative Modi referenced?
'Vocal for Local' is a government campaign launched in 2020 to encourage Indians to buy indigenous products and reduce dependence on imports. Modi linked the choice of locally made clay Ganesh idols to this broader self-reliance push.
Why did Modi raise Ganesh Utsav so early?
Modi explained that idol-making preparations begin several months before the festival, so an early appeal gives artisans and buyers time to act on his guidance. He also noted that many Mann Ki Baat listeners had specifically written in requesting he address the topic.
Who is affected by Modi's appeal?
The appeal is directed at two groups: buyers of Ganesh idols across India, and the artisans and potters who manufacture them. Modi asked buyers to check materials and country of origin, and asked makers to prioritise clay over synthetic alternatives.
