Sept 17 is significant in history for a number of reasons. On this day, artisans and workers across the country joyfully celebrate Vishwakarma Jayanti. Hyderabad was liberated from the cruel Nizam and Razakars on Sept 17. And, on this day was born a statesman who has dedicated his entire life to the service of the nation and its people - our Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This birthday is even more significant, as it marks his 75th year. On behalf of 140 crore Indians, I extend my heartfelt greetings to Modi-ji and pray to the Almighty to bless him with long life, energy and good health to achieve greatness for India.
Having worked alongside PM Modi for decades, I have deeply felt that his personality is beyond that of a politician - it embodies a mission-driven leader dedicated to the nation's welfare. For him, India's rise and Indians' well-being are not just ideals but guiding principles. What makes his leadership unique is his constant focus on ensuring the all-inclusive model of governance. His policies and their implementation always emphasise that no individual or community is left behind in the development journey. For him, governance is not a tool of power but a medium of service. Under his leadership, numerous welfare schemes for the poor have not only been launched but have also achieved their intended goals.
We can see that the Jan Dhan Yojana brought over 50 crore people into the banking system, scripting a glorious episode of financial inclusion; the Ujjwala Yojana freed millions of households from smoke and gave them a life of dignity; Ayushman Bharat provided healthcare security to the poor; and the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana helped economically weaker sections realise the dream of owning a home. Whenever I look into the eyes of a beneficiary and see contentment and trust, I understand how Modi-ji's governance is truly bringing the vision of public welfare to life.
As an RSS pracharak, he travelled across the nation and engaged with all sections of society. He not only closely witnessed the soul of India but also experienced its inner strength. This later reflected in his governance, through his empathy for the poor and the marginalised. It was also as a pracharak that Modi-ji learnt the art of organisation. Later, while recasting BJP's organisation, he introduced innovative reforms that transformed the party's functional dynamics. I am fortunate that, as BJP's national president, I had the opportunity to implement his vision and organisational insights at the national level.
The hallmark of strong leadership lies in the ability to take decisions in difficult circumstances. Judged by this criterion, Modi-ji's leadership is exceptional. I have witnessed him maintain extraordinary patience and clarity of vision, even in the most challenging situations. Since 2014, there have been several occasions when the nation needed bold and decisive steps. He firmly upheld the principles of leadership and made decisions in the nation's interest. Demonetisation and GST opened new chapters in our economic reforms. Abrogation of Article 370 will be remembered as a decision that demonstrated not only political courage but also his unwavering commitment to national unity and integrity. The erasing of the social evil of triple talaq was a bold step to protect the dignity and rights of women.
None of these decisions were easy. Many of them faced opposition, but Modi-ji never wavered. He held firm the belief that the nation's interest must be pursued, regardless of resistance or criticism.
When Covid shook the whole world, he not only reassured the public but also led the country's industries, scientists and youth towards self-reliance. The world was anxious about India during the pandemic. But it was because of our astute leadership that not only were vaccines manufactured in the country in record time, but through the technology-driven free vaccination campaign, we presented an exemplary model of Covid management to the world.
Under PM's leadership, India has repeatedly proved that national security and self-respect are sacrosanct for our national life. The surgical strike after the Uri attack showed the world that India will no longer remain a silent spectator to terrorism. The Balakot airstrike after the Pulwama incident further strengthened this resolve. Recently, 'Operation Sindoor' conducted on May 7, 2025 in response to the Pahalgam attack decisively established the policy that whenever the country's identity and the safety of citizens are messed with, India will respond with courage and determination.
These actions not only strengthened the sense of confidence and pride among the people of India but also gave the message to the world that new India is ready to face every situation to protect its national well-being.
Modi-ji's strategy is unique in the field of foreign policy as well. Today, when he stands on an international platform and confidently puts forth India's stand, a wave of pride runs through all of us. While India was often seen as an emerging nation in the past, under his leadership, India is moving towards taking the role of a global leader. Be it the Paris Climate Agreement, the G20 Conference, or the address given at the United Nations – everywhere his confidence has been a symbol of India's growing power and pride.
From what I know about Modi-ji, I can say that his personality is not limited to policies and programmes. He has a special charisma, which connects him directly with the public. His speech has the flair of spontaneity and simplicity, which makes him reach the hearts of the public. During his conversations in the 'Mann Ki Baat' programme, crores of people feel that PM is directly communicating with them. Be it a farmer from a village or a student from the city or a housewife, everyone starts feeling a sense of affinity with him. This is no common attribute.
Looking back, I see that Modi-ji has empowered India not merely in economic and political terms, but also mental and cultural terms. He has the right understanding of India's internal strength, and has a vision that in 2047, when India completes 100 years of independence, our country should restore its stature as 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' and a great country, and to achieve this, he is advancing the country in this direction rapidly with his visionary policies.
He has instilled the belief in every Indian that we are second to none in this world. In the last 11 years, under his leadership, the country has touched new heights in self-respect, self-reliance and self-confidence, which in my view is both historic and unique.
In fact, true leadership is that which dedicates every moment to the nation, with a vision that looks far beyond the present into the future. Today, this personality of Modi-ji is the biggest strength of India.
