New Delhi, August 4: A small business owner from Madurai, Tamil Nadu, has received a personal letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which has deeply touched him. Nationalam Mani, who operates his business with the help of a loan from the central government, had written to express his gratitude, prompting a response from the Prime Minister’s Office.
In an interview with a news agency, Mani shared, “My father started this small shop in 1962. Over time, our family grew, and so did the shop.” He mentioned that when PM Modi launched the zero-balance bank account scheme, he opened an account and learned about the loan options available for street vendors and small businesses.
Mani explained, “Initially, I took a loan of 10,000 rupees and repaid it on time. Then I borrowed 20,000 rupees and paid that back as well. After that, I took a loan of 50,000 rupees, which I also repaid fully. When I requested another loan, the officials asked me to wait for a month. Within that time, I received a call, and through Canara Bank, my fourth loan of 50,000 rupees was approved, which I am currently repaying.”
He emphasized that this scheme has been a lifeline for him. “Receiving loans at low interest during critical times has allowed me to run my business smoothly and support my family without major difficulties.”
Mani further recounted reading an interview with PM Modi in a newspaper, where the Prime Minister mentioned that the government has provided substantial benefits to street vendors across the country. Inspired, he decided to thank the Prime Minister.
He said, “A customer at my shop helped me draft a short thank-you letter in English. I typed it up and sent it to Delhi.”
Mani added that officials in Delhi read his letter and even spoke to him directly over the phone. About 10 to 15 days later, he received a reply from the Prime Minister’s Office.
He expressed, “Receiving appreciation and a response from the Prime Minister’s Office is a huge honor for me. I will never forget it. This letter is a treasure for me.”
When the courier arrived, people around him speculated it might contain financial assistance, but for him, the letter from the Prime Minister was the greatest gift.
He stated, “PM Modi has been helping me through various schemes. He has positively impacted the lives of millions of street vendors like me across the country.”
Mani urged all small business owners and street vendors to adhere to the scheme’s guidelines. He believes that if everyone cooperates, the scheme will strengthen and benefit even more people.
Leave a Comment