Senior journalist and renowned author Harish Chandra Burnwal received a doctorate (PhD) for his exceptional research on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s monthly radio broadcast, ‘Mann Ki Baat.’ The honorary degree was presented to him by Union Health and Family Welfare Minister J.P. Nadda at the convocation of Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies in Faridabad, Haryana.
Dr. Burnwal’s dissertation titled “An Analysis of the Prime Minister’s ‘Mann Ki Baat’ radio program in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)” was completed under the guidance of Professor Dr. Kumar Rajesh. This research is groundbreaking as it links the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals for 2030 with India’s popular radio program, ‘Mann Ki Baat.’
The study illustrates how PM Modi effectively transformed global goals like poverty alleviation, health, education, and women’s empowerment into a grassroots movement through his radio program. Dr. Burnwal’s research, based on statistical data, analyzed 53 episodes of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ from 2014 to 2019, revealing sanitation as the most discussed topic in 34 episodes.
The dissertation emphasizes PM Modi’s ability to influence public behavior through initiatives like ‘Divyang’ instead of ‘Viklang,’ ‘Selfie with Daughter,’ and ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha.’ It also underlines the impact of these campaigns on societal perceptions. The Manav Rachna Institute views this dissertation as a valuable resource for journalism, political science, and sociology students.
The dissertation by Dr. Harish Chandra Burnwal is expected to be published as a book in the near future, offering a comprehensive reference for those interested in the subject matter. The institute’s faculty, dignitaries, and academic experts extended their congratulations to Dr. Burnwal for his significant research contribution.
