Who is Girija Amma? Tamil Nadu teacher praised by PM Modi in Mann Ki Baat for inspiring students to support soldiers
Prime Minister Narendra Modi used the 134th episode of Mann Ki Baat to shine a spotlight on veteran educationist Girija Amma, whose efforts to encourage students to contribute towards the welfare of Indian soldiers have drawn national attention.Recalling a recent meeting in Nagercoil, Tamil Nadu, the Prime Minister said, “I met a teacher in Nagercoil, Tamil Nadu. I had met her nearly three decades ago. I’m talking about Girija Amma ji. During this meeting, some young students were also with her.”Girija Amma, whose full name is Gomatam Veeraraghavan Girija, is associated with a network of nearly 15 schools. Among them, Jai Gopal Garodia Hindu Vidyalaya in Chennai is one of the best-known institutions. Speaking about her work, PM Modi said, “Girija Amma ji runs close to 15 schools. Among these, Jaigopal Garodia Hindu Vidyalaya in Chennai is very prominent. Her patriotic spirit inspires every Indian.”The Prime Minister said Girija Amma was inspired by Mann Ki Baat and decided to launch a unique initiative for soldiers. She encouraged students in all her schools to contribute one rupee every day. Over a year, each student collected Rs 365, and the combined effort resulted in a substantial contribution.“Through these small contributions, approximately 40 lakh rupees were collected. Girija Amma handed me a cheque for this entire amount,” PM Modi said. He added, “During my conversation with her, I felt how deep her dedication to Mother India was.”According to the Prime Minister, the initiative showed how small individual efforts can create a meaningful impact when people come together for a common cause. The campaign also encouraged students to participate in an activity linked to national service and responsibility.PM Modi further noted that the Hindu Vidyalaya school network recently completed 50 years. “The role of this school network in advancing the country’s education and cultural pride is commendable,” he said while congratulating the institution, its teachers and students.The Prime Minister also praised the children who took part in the campaign. “I congratulate everyone involved and especially appreciate the students who contributed for our brave soldiers,” he said.Using Girija Amma’s example, PM Modi urged people to recognise positive work happening around them. “In every village and city of India, something or the other is happening that inspires us,” he said, adding that such efforts strengthen faith in the country’s progress and the power of its people.
