Excerpts of Shri Narendra Modi’s interview given during his appearance on ‘Aap ki Adalat’ with Rajat Sharma:

Rajat Sharma: Important leaders of our country – Sonia, Chidambaram, Sharad -they are all worried that wherever they go, they get to hear “Abki baar, Modi Sarkar”.

I didn’t know that high profile people could be worried about such issues. If they are worried they it’s a sign of being small minded not big. 

RS: Sonia said that advertisements are being circulated in every corner of the country that project one man being the cure of all ailments. He is being presented as a miracle.

Even I heard her saying that BJP has got a magician. I thought magicians make items vanish on stage. But these days Delhi is plagued with black magic. They have made jobs and coal disappear. Electricity has vanished. So they think this kind of magic is better than Black magic. 

RS: They say he pretends that there is no other patriot than himself. By chanting false slogans he wants to grab the PM’s post.

Every citizen is a patriot. Neither do I doubt anyone’s patriotism nor do I claim to be the most patriotic person. 

RS: Rahul Gandhi says that our nation doesn’t need a single chowkidaar. Modi wants to change the entire nation. I say that the nation needs crores of chowkidaars. What can a single chowkidaar do?

It a good thing that he listens to my speeches carefully and he knows that crores of chowkidaar will serve him good. One could pose a problem. I am worried that if there are 150 crore chowkidaars then will they include Adarsh Scam culprits and those who have snatched lands of widows of Kargil martyrs? Their LS candidates who have been accused of land acquisition of the farmer of Rajasthan – will they also be chowkidaars? If this is the case then it seems that cat will be made in-charge of milk. 

RS: Their slogan goes- Har haath shakti har haath tarakki.

They need to come up with ideas to put a lid on their work. Their hand that commits sin has to be portrayed in some other way. That is why, for them, it’s- har haath loot har honth jhooth (Every hand loots, every lips speak a lie). 

RS: Nitish alleges that this is mere publicity. On TV, Radio FM and on newspapers – only Modi sarkar is publicized. Modi has created his wave. It is self-created.

I don’t say it myself. You (audience) all are shouting my name on your own. Has anyone taught you? (Audience: Nahi) You all are chanting on your own? (Yes) Do you think that the nation is saying this on its own? (Audience: Yes) Don’t listen to me or Nitish. At least listen to the people. 

RS: We get messages on our mobile phones. They go as follows: twinkle little stars, Abki baar Modi sarkaar; Rahul Gandhi ne khayi chocolate bar, abki baar Modi sarkaar, parathon ke saath khao achar, Abki baar Modi sakar, dil ka bhawar kare pukaar abki baar Modi sarkar, Sonia ji ne Manmohan se kaha ab to apna moun tod do sardar, abki baar Modi sarkar.

I am grateful to the creative people of this nation. Had social media not existed then we would have not been able to hear about this creativity. 

RS: Akhilesh Yadav said in Aap Ki Adalat that Narendra Modi had hired an American agency to create such slogans for publicity. He is giving Rs 1000 crore to that agency.

I have not done anything as such. This lie has been circulating for quite some time. Had I hired such a company, is it possible that it would have been in the newspapers. They would have managed it. 

RS: Anand Sharma, Congress Union Minister said in a press conference that BJP has spent Rs. 10000 crore on publicity.

The first thing that Anand Sharma needs to do is to write to the EC. Then there is a govt agency named Enforcement Directorate. Since they don’t do anything, I’m giving them an idea of doing some work. Let them fully investigate it. Let Anand Sharma do it as fast as possible. If there is any objection from EC, I’m willing to writing to EC to let them do it. 

RS: But Rahul Gandhi says that you are a person who can sell combs to even those who are bald.

I used to sell tea. I never sold combs but the information that I can do it has reached them, is sort of achievement for me. 

RS: Rahul mentions in his public speeches that you are filling balloons and it will burst the same way it got deflated in 2009.

They said the same thing in 2002, 2007 and 2012 when Gujarat assembly elections took place. Their balloons got deflated. They have been defeated in primary match. Now the people will decide the outcome in the final match. 

RS: Sonia Gandhi says that you are being presented as if nothing has been done in the past and you will change things overnight.

I have already said that everything has vanished because of black magic. In the first decade of 21st century, we had such a good opportunity to take off in this era of globalization, from the point Vajpayee had left things. But instead of taking off, we collapsed on the runway itself. It has caused a great damage to the country. Have you ever seen a country that exports wheat and import breads? We are exporting iron-ore and importing steel. In this country, power units of 20,000 mw capacity are closed down. On the other hand, coal mines are also closed down. Why? Because the files have disappeared. For them, files have disappeared but for me, the life of nation has disappeared. Had coal been available, we would have got power. Small industries could have been set up that would have given employment to youth. When we raise these questions they think that they are ruling the nation for four generations, how can a ‘chaiwallah’ challenge them? In a democracy, everybody including kids have the right to ask questions from rulers. 

Rajat Sharma: Their problem is that a ‘chaiwallah’ is trying to become the prime minister.

I am a person who never dreamt of becoming anything. And I tell the youth don’t dream of becoming anything. You should always dream of doing something. I come from a background that my mother would have distributed sweets had I become even a school teacher. It’s the blessings of people in a democracy that can decide the future of a person. In a democracy, no one can decide his future. Even today, I have dreams of doing things but not one dream of becoming anything. 

RS: Rahul has said that Modi can go to any extent to become the PM. He says that if you come to power then you will break nation into pieces. You will create infighting among people.

I think he has borrowed this (cutting into pieces) from his candidate in UP. We will sacrifice our lives for the unity and integrity of nation. Look at the history of the Congress. Look at their track record. Who got the reins of power first? Who divided the country? Who spread the poison of casteism? Who created communal tension? For the first time, the govt asked the army to provide info on the basis of religion. Fortunately, the army refused to share the info saying the army consists of Indians only. They refused to count Hindus and Muslims in army. They should look within themselves.

In Gujarat, I talk about 5 crore Gujaratis only. I talk of 125 crore Hindustani only. I have tried to avoid the sectarian terminology. Gradually every Chief Minister has started doing the same thing. 

RS: Omar Abdullah says that you went to Punjab and accepted their attire, you went to Arunachal and wore their cap, you went to Assam and wore their dress but you refused to wear skull cap offered by Imam.

I have never seen Gandhi, Patel or Nehru wearing such skull cap. Indian politics has deteriorated. They can do anything for appeasement. I believe in respecting traditions of all religions. But at the same time, I have to respect my own tradition as well although I respect all traditions. I can’t hoodwink people by wearing such skull caps. But I believe in taking action against those who show disrespect to other’s caps. 

RS: Nitish Kumar said that in public life, you have to wear both tilak and skull caps. You have to take care of sentiments of others.

If he thinks that it helps in taking care of sentiments then it’s his thought. I believe that their children should get better education. They should have Quran in one hand and computer in the other hand. 

RS: Azam Khan said that after 60 years of independence, we are being called puppies.

Whoever said this was wrong. I will not say anything like this. 

RS: You had said, “we are human beings. It pains even when a puppy comes under my car.”

Modi: In our country we say it pains even if an ant dies. These are proverbs. This should not be interpreted otherwise. And you should know that the person who had taken my interview, despite being a foreigner, had tweeted that I did not mean anything like that. But the news traders, and am not talking about media, used this to sell their stuff. 

RS: Azam Khan while referring to you has said today that we don’t need the sympathy of Modi, the elder brother of puppies.

I should say- thank you very much- to him because the loyalty of dogs is unparalleled. I’m proud that somebody saw this quality in me that will benefit the country. 

RS: Manmohan Singh said that it will be disastrous if you become the PM.

I think his own partymen, including his cabinet ministers said that he should not have said that. And now he has stopped saying that. 

RS: He actually reminded people that it will be disastrous for people if a person, under whose regime killings took place on the roads of Ahmedabad, becomes PM.

He should have remembered, there was attack on Akshardham temple in September 2002, so many people were killed inside the temple, yet Gujarat maintained peace. Gujarat maintained peace even after serial blasts. There was a time when Gujarat used to have riots over kite flying and cricket matches. Gujarat has not witnessed riots for last 12 years. The children of Gujarat don’t know what is curfew all about? Gujarat has progressed because of peace and harmony. And this is what the nation needs for growth as these things will have catalytic effect in achieving that. 

Q: Akhilesh Yadav recently said in ‘Aap Ki Adalat’ that Muzaffarnagar riots were incited by Narendra Modi.

I don’t know whether he is having a sound sleep these days. I have been to UP 4-5 times in recent times and I can understand his real concern. He sees Modi in everything- from lion to laptop. This is his problem. 

Question from audience: What will you do for education sector in your first 100 days of rule?

In our country, we should think about poor first. Whenever I meet a person, like a driver, I ask about his family and life. He tells me that he has taken loans for better education of his kids. Nowadays even drivers are taking loans for the better education of their kids. We have always focused on degrees only. Now is the time to focus on skill development that will bring employment to our youth. If we have to compete with China then we have to focus on three things- skill, scale and speed. We need better skill, greater scale and faster speed. 

Question from audience: You are campaigning relentlessly for last two months. From where do you get the motivation?

Modi: I had started the campaign from 15th September. So now it’s 6-7 months since I started the campaign. I am a labourer and my childhood was very tough and physically I am used to all this. I also do my Yoga and Pranayam. But the important point is that I believe you never get tired by doing work. You get tired when you don’t work. When you clean your house, you don’t get tired, it gives you satisfaction.

People’s blessings give you the power to work tirelessly. The only thing required is commitment. The love and affection that I have received from people in last 6 months keeps me running. 

Question from audience: When will we come out of caste based politics?

That’s why I say unless we start using saying – we the 1.25 crore people- the poison of caste will keep creating fissures in the society. There is no harm in feeling proud of your caste but the poison of casteism that creates hatred does not benefit anyone. 

Rajat Sharma: But Sonia ji says that you do what she calls ‘zeher ki kheti’.

It’s good that you have given me the opportunity to speak on this. In Jaipur in last June-July, there was Congress convention going on where Rahul made a speech. He said that I went to Mom’s room this morning and I found her crying. She told me that power is poison. Now the question is who has been in power for the longest time? Who tasted the poison for the longest time? Who has the maximum amount of poison in the stomach? So who will spew poison the most? 

Rajat Sharma: Maulana Madani has said that Muslims are being made to feel scared in the name of Modi. You talk about national integration but it can actually break the country.

What he said was that those who are saying all this are trying to break the nation. 

RS: He says that Muslims are being made to feel scared in your name. What is it in you that scare Muslims?

I don’t think they feel scared. In Gujarat, Muslims feel greater enthusiasm when my name is mentioned. 

Audience: America had banned your entry in that country. Will you go to US if you become PM?

When it happened in 2005, I had told media that we want to create an India where Americans will have to stand in cue to seek visa. 

RS: American ambassador Nancy Powell had to leave after she met you. What did you do?

 (Laughs)…This is something that journalists should investigate. 

RS: You opponents allege that all your developmental claims in the state are hollow. Mulayam Singh Yadav recently asked you to explain whether Gujarat, like UP, also has free irrigation, free education and free medicines.

He should have taken it further- free goondaism, free killings of innocents. 

RS: He responded when you said that it takes 56 inch chest for running the government.

I had responded to him when he said that he will not allow UP becoming another Gujarat. It is then that I had said, “Neta ji, it takes 56 inches chest to make Gujarat. And then I went on to say, in order to make a state like Gujarat, you need to give electricity for 24 hours and 365 days. Most houses in Gujarat have the facility of drinking water from taps, 99% roads in rural regions have proper roads. I said, “You don’t have that kind of stamina. You continue with caste oriented politics because you cannot go beyond that.” Today Ram Manohar Lohia must have been very upset with his disciples. 

Rahul: Rahul Gandhi alleges that you have created Gujarat’s image just through marketing as far as facilities like electricity, water and employment are concerned.

Okay, we can go to Delhi, Bengal and Assam for marketing. But I cannot do that in front of the people of Gujarat, right? They can see through right away. I say that I have constructed roads and if there are no roads, then the people there will never believe me. They would call me a liar if I had not done anything for the agricultural sector. Then I would have not won elections in 2002, 2007 and 2012. I did not lose a single election. Gujarat is the only State that can fight the elections with the agenda of development. Even today our agenda is development and others are running away from this zone.

They don’t have courage to touch this issue. Because they feel that they will be answerable for this. When I had gone to visit Gujarat in 2001, people gathered to meet me. I hadn’t visited my State for quite some time. I had nothing to do there. Before becoming the CM I had not even seen the CM’s chamber. I was not even an MLA and I had not even fought teacher’s elections.

People would come to me and say, we are not asking for anything big.

But at least provide us electricity during dinner time so that we don’t have to eat in the dark. That means, during that period, Gujarat didn’t even get electricity in the evening for dinner. Today Gujarat has electricity all around the year. This cannot be proved through marketing. When people switch on their bulb and see light, it is then that they believe that Modi has provided electricity. 

RS: But it is also true that you got Amitabh Bachchan for promotion and marketing.

This is true… 

RS: It’s the same Amitabh who was once a part of Congress and then SP…?

There is difference between Modi and others. He is indeed close to Mulayam Singh Yadav. He is from UP and thus he has his attachments. But Mulayam Singh used him. He used him in his election campaigns with the slogan – “UP mein hai dum, zulm hai kam”. But that didn’t work.

Amitabh’s role needs to be reflected with intellect. I used him to talk about Gujarat and not of Gujarat government. He advertises Kutch, its handicraft and lifestyle. So if I have that thought, that is my work. I use Amitabh Bachchan as a productive resource for the welfare of Gujarat. It’s been around 5 years that he’s been working with me. Neither he has ever spoken about politics and nor have I. And today let me clarify, when I had given him the proposal that I wanted to promote tourism in Gujarat, he said, “I give you my voice and my face, you may use it”. He refused to take money from me. He does not take a single rupee for promoting tourism in Gujarat and for this I am extremely grateful to him. 

RS: We thought he must be earning a lot from your Government.

I’m a “pakka Ahmedabadi” (pure Ahmedabadi). Our specialty is to find someone on whom we have least expenditure. We believe in single fare, double journey. We don’t give money to people easily. 

RS: If you don’t give then why is it being said that you gave cheap land to Tata, Adani and other builders?

All these accusations are influenced by politics. Our Congress friends keep bringing up such issues. I say, is the Government of India asleep? Isn’t it its responsibility to reprimand a Chief Minister if he is involved in such malpractices? Why aren’t they taking any action?

This means that they don’t have courage to do even that. Secondly, as far as land allocation is concerned, the Supreme Court has said that the policy of Gujarat government is so good that all States must implement that model. Thirdly, a lie that is circulating is that Nano was given land. In reality, Nano was not given a single inch land from the State government. No agricultural land was given to Nano. 

RS: But there are accusations that farmer’s lands were seized and given to Nano?

These people don’t know anything. The Supreme Court has given approval. We had given land to the industries on more than the market rate. Not the present market rate, but the rate that existed then. Gujarat is a policy driven state. Even if you go there, you will get the same benefit that the richest man of India will get. 

RS: Rahul Gandhi says that Gujarat’s credibility cannot be proved because the state does not have RTI, the biggest information right that he has given to the citizens.

Modi: These days he goes around saying that he has given this law and that law…ask him, does RTI apply to J&K? Do Right to education and Anti – corruption Bill apply to Kashmir? First he should see what his government has done. Moreover, Gujarat has RTI and there have never been any complains in Gujarat on RTI. 

RS: Now that you have mentioned Supreme Court I will have to take my case back.

Audience: If your government is formed, will you give an assurance to Christian brothers and sisters that their churches will not be broken down?

I have never heard of such incidents taking place… 

Audience: That they won’t be burnt…?

I have never heard of such instances. Our country does not believe in the concept of your God and my God. We believe that all Gods are one. We have different ways of accepting Him. All ways lead to Him. That is why our constitution does not allow any discrimination. We cannot have communal discussions. We can be religious but not communal. That is why BJP’s motto is Sarva Panth Sambhav. In Gujarat we have the world’s smallest community – Parsi. They even have a pilgrimage centre there. Look at the rich history of India. We have never tried to bring down any community’s place of worship through sword or violence. Castes and religious divides are holding the nation back from growing. I want you all to be at peace. 

RS: You have given consolation to Parsis and Christians. Can you give assurance to Muslims?

Every citizen of this nation has those rights and privileges that Narendra Modi has. 

RS: So nobody has to fear you.

Some people will have to be afraid. Those who plunder the nation, deliver injustice, will have to feel scared of me. And I am not afraid of admitting this. Government cannot be so lenient that it forgives them. People must have sense of security. This does not exist and that is what causes all the trouble. You have to maintain some decorum even at home. And if it is a crime to maintain discipline then I admit my crime. 

RS: There’s one man’s rule in BJP. Modi’s name is chanted everywhere. Even on all the posters. It appears that there is no other leader left in BJP.

This is not true. BJP is a huge organization. It works in that structure. There is a galaxy of leaders who are equally competent. During elections we have to set a goal and prioritize issues. Even for this there is a committee of which Modi is not a part. Previously we worked under Atal ji’s guidance. Then we worked under Advani ji, Harshvardhan in Delhi, Shivraj Singh in MP and in Rajasthan we worked under Vasundhara Raje. So responsibilities are distributed according to the party’s goal. Right now I have been given this role and I have to do what the party has asked me to do. I am a worker of the party. We are a team. 

RS: If you are a team then why did Advani get upset three times?

I don’t think he is angry. 

RS: He was first annoyed when Narendra Modi was made the national convener for the elections in Goa. Then the party went to appease him. Next he was upset when Narendra Modi was declared BJP’s PM candidate. He didn’t attend that meeting and once again the party had to persuade him. Recently he was upset over ticket distribution in the Lok Sabha elections. He wanted to fight from Ahmedabad and party insisted that he contests from Bhopal.

All these three issues have been clarified by Advani and the party. They were all fiction. Because after Goa meeting, he called me up to congratulate me. He was not well so he couldn’t come to Goa. But this made juicy news for media. 

RS: And Jaswant Singh…

Jaswant Singh has just written a review of one of my biographies. 

RS: And you didn’t give him ticket…

I don’t distribute tickets. State election Committee sends its recommendations. Central committee approves of it. Recently we helped his son win elections. BJP has lakhs of workers. It becomes difficult to manage when tickets are distributed. 

RS: But the situation is so grave that Rahul Gandhi is worried that influential leaders like Jaswant Singh, L K Advani have been sidelined by Narendra Modi.

These are people who held Modi’s hand to make him walk. And even today I seek their advice by sitting at their feet. BJP does not work that way. But in their party, look what happened to Sitaram Kesri. He was the President of All India Congress Committee. They threw him out of his office to bring in Sonia Gandhi. 

RS: But now that culture is creeping into BJP. Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi tweeted- Sabir Ali has joined the party, now Dawood Ibrahim is next in line.

Let those exchanges remain between them only. 

RS: Party workers say that very few people like you within the party although you have fan following outside. Raj Thackeray said that he will make Modi the Prime Minister.

First part of your statement is not correct. Today there are senior and more experienced members than me in the party. But they have handed immense responsibility to me. My party workers are working relentlessly. If I am anything today, I owe it all to my party workers. That is why I cannot think that my party people do not support me because I would have not even been even at grass root level had it not been for them. 

RS: I have heard that Kumar Vishwas has been praising you and dedicating poems to you. He said that Narendra Modi used to talk to him.

Now that is true. I used to talk to a lot of people. Many say that Modi does not talk to anyone, but at least he is honest in claiming that I talked to him. 

RS: But there is no confusion on the leadership in Congress…

That is what has led to Congress’ fall. Instead of improving the economy of the nation, they are busy generating income for one family. 

RS: Dr Manmohan Singh has said that Rahul Gandhi has outstanding credentials to become the Prime Minister and I am willing to work under his guidance. Has any big leader in your party made such a statement in your favour?

There’s a reason for that – I say, I am willing to work under their guidance. I work under them. 

RS: But one such leader, Murli Manohar Joshi, wanted a ticket from Varanasi but you went there.

I was given that offer. And he is fighting from Kanpur. I believe he is going to win with largest number of votes this time. 

Audience: Sir your clothes are very stylish, who is your designer?

I left my house when I was very young. I could fit all my belongings in a small bundle. I kept wandering for 40 – 45 years and I spent over 40 years begging for food. I had to wash my own clothes. So I thought my shirt occupied too much effort in washing and space too. I cut the sleeves myself. So my shirt became half sleeved. I have been wearing such clothes for over 25 years. Yes, I like to dress up well and stay clean. God has gifted me the sense of mixing and matching colours. So I manage everything on my own. Since I’m God gifted I fit well in everything. I have no fashion designer but I’m happy to hear that I dress well. 

RS: You are secretive about your personal life. Only recently we got to know that you used to sell tea at the Railway stations.

It is true that I don’t talk much about my personal life. People of Gujarat know a lot. But Media today is so vibrant that even if something falls off from the pocket they come to know. Then one day I’d come to Delhi and some Congressmen went about saying silly things about me, they even abused me. They said that Modi was an American agent and what not. I was hurt. I had my rally in Rohini (Delhi). I said, do you even know me? I have spent my childhood selling tea at railway stations and you are throwing such allegations on me? That’s how you all got to know about me. Other than that, so many things keep happening; I can’t go around telling everything. 

RS: You were so naughty that when you were a child you used to catch crocodile babies from the lake and take them home.

I was brave, not naughty. There was a lake in my village and I loved to swim in that lake. I even had to wash my clothes there. So one day I picked up a crocodile baby and took it home. Later on I even took it to school and my teachers were very upset. 

RS: You left your home when you were very young and went up to the Himalayas.

Yes I’ve left my home on several occasions. I wanted to lead a spiritual life. Like I said I spent some years begging for food for sustenance. Even now I desire that. I was greatly influenced by Swami Vivekananda. I visited Ramakrishna Mission and several other places. I recently visited Swami Atmaghanananda. That was another world which I have loved. 

RS: It’s astonishing that a man who used to sell tea and beg for food has now become a brand himself. Comics are written on you, chips and vegetables are sold in your name. Miscellaneous goods are sold in your name.

It is astonishing, I admit. If you consider my background – I am the Chief Minister of Gujarat and my mother still resides in a small house in the village. I am surprised myself as I don’t have any background. It’s like a miracle that has worked in my life. I don’t understand what people want out of me or the party, I don’t know. 

RS: Congress feels that you have prepared a huge underground team who work constantly on social media to create Narendra Modi’s image.

Congress is right for once. I have worked underground in 1975 and 1977 – two years when Mrs Indira Gandhi had imposed emergency on the nation and had imprisoned important leaders. Police were hunting for me too. Then I would wear a turban and stay dressed as a Sardar to hide my identity. Since then Congress is scared of me. My life is an open book. It is true that lakhs of people are associated with me in this election who have got nothing to do with BJP, politics. They are only concerned about the nation. Over 10000 people have come from overseas to assist. I met around 400 youngsters. They are all IITians. They have been putting efforts in their own way. I don’t even know those people. But if I don’t know that doesn’t not mean it’s underground. 

Audience: If you become Prime Minister then will Advani become the next President?

If Modi becomes Prime Minister, it would mean that Advani has made him so. Those who give me position, how can I give them anything? 

Audience: I know that you will become the PM. I have full confidence. I don’t wish to ask you a question. All I want you to do is to remove black magic from this country with your magic.

 If there are millions of others like you then black magic will anyway vanish. 

Audience: After 2002 Gujarat riots, Indian, International media, politicians – were all after you. How did you cope with all of this?

If you are dependent on truth, then you get the strength to face all accusations. Even today I face all sorts of indictments. Maybe my life’s strife has made me strong. Had I not been so strong, maybe I would have not won the hearts of millions of people. I’m privileged to have suffered. I now convert all strife into an opportunity and so far I’ve been successful. 

RS: You had strength and were supported by truth, so why didn’t you discuss this before. Why are you saying all this today in Aap Ki Adalat?

Modi: First of all, whenever I was asked on this issue, I answered all the questions. But I feel that some people do not want answers to questions. They want to hear what they have to say. And their problem is that they don’t do their homework. That’s why they can’t ask me much. 

RS: They just want Narendra Modi to apologize.

Even when I step down from my bed in the morning, I ask mother earth for her forgiveness. Who am I? I’m just a child of this earth. 

Audience: All the parties have stressed on women protection in their manifesto. What will you do that women feel secure?

If you get the opportunity, in October on Navratri, we have a ceremony that continues till over midnight. You can walk around. You will see young girls, clad in jewellery, will be hanging out and riding their scooties. Everything is possible. 

RS: Mulayam Singh Yadav has made a statement at a public meeting that rape is a minor offense and capital punishment is not justified. He said that I become the Prime Minister then I’ll change this law.

If you start collecting such mean statements then, after Mumbai’s terror attack, a Congress minister had said, such minor incidents keep happening. This mindset is very dangerous for the country. Don’t we feel the pain when such crimes take place? I understand that it takes time to bring about social change. But how can we be so insensitive. For a moment imagine that you are that girl who has been raped. Will you then think that it is a small incident? Or think that your own daughter has been raped and then you’ll understand. Every daughter of India is our daughter. The kind of things that we are hearing nowadays, are so troubling to the mind. And even then some ministers add salt to the wound because of their ignorance. It is very painful. I don’t want to give a political answer for this nor do I want to score a political point. I pray to God that at least he doesn’t give us such mentality.

 

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২৭.০৪.২০২৫ দা শন্দোকখিবা মন কি বাতকী ১২১শুবা তাঙ্কক্ত প্রধান মন্ত্রীনা ফোঙদোকখিবা ৱারোল
PM Modi urges states to unite as ‘Team India’ for growth and development by 2047

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PM Modi urges states to unite as ‘Team India’ for growth and development by 2047
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অরব ন্যুজদা পি.এম.গী ইন্তর্ভ্যু
April 22, 2025

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has praised the “limitless potential” of India’s growing ties with Saudi Arabia as he arrives in Jeddah for a two-day visit, his third to the Kingdom since 2016. In an exclusive interview with Arab News, he described the Kingdom as “a trusted friend and strategic ally,” emphasizing how bilateral relations had expanded significantly since the creation of the Strategic Partnership Council in 2019.

“Our partnership has limitless potential,” Modi said. “In a world full of uncertainties, our bond stands strong, as a pillar of stability.” He praised Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman’s leadership, calling him “a strong advocate of our bilateral ties” and a visionary who has inspired global admiration through the reforms under Vision 2030.

“Every time I have met him, His Royal Highness has left a deep impression on me. His insights, his forward-thinking vision, and his passion for fulfilling the aspirations of his people are truly remarkable,” he said.

Highlighting shared economic ambitions, Modi noted that trade between the two countries had grown even amid global challenges, with energy, agriculture and fertilizers as key sectors. He welcomed deeper integration of Saudi and Indian businesses, particularly in emerging sectors like green hydrogen and technology. “Indian companies have also maintained a strong presence across various sectors in Saudi Arabia,” he said.

Modi congratulated the Kingdom for winning the bids to host World Expo 2030 and FIFA World Cup 2034, describing the dual successes as a matter of “immense pride.” He also pointed to growing defense cooperation and landmark joint military exercises as signs of increasing strategic trust.

On the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), launched during the G20 Summit in September 2023, Modi said the project would be “a key catalyst of commerce, connectivity and growth in the entire region.”

In a statement, the Indian government said the visit “reflects the importance India attaches to its bilateral relationship with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.”

Q. Saudi-India ties are on an upswing. How do you assess the progress made in the strengthening of bilateral relations since the establishment of the Strategic Partnership Council in 2019?

A. First of all, I want to thank His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman for his kind invitation. I am delighted to be here on my third visit. I take great pride in our relations with Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is one of India’s most valued partners — a maritime neighbor, a trusted friend and a strategic ally.

Our connection is not new. It is rooted in civilizational exchanges that go back to centuries. From ideas to trade, there has been a constant flow between our two great nations.

Our relations have been on an upward trajectory since 2014. I fondly recall that in 2016, I had the honor of receiving The Order of King Abdulaziz from His Majesty King Salman.

The formation of the Strategic Partnership Council in 2019 marked a major milestone. Since then, cooperation between us has expanded across many sectors. And let me tell you, this is just the beginning. Our partnership has limitless potential.

What anchors our relationship is mutual trust and goodwill. In a world full of uncertainties, our bond stands strong, as a pillar of stability. I truly believe these are promising times for India-Saudi Arabia ties. And, I must say, the Saudi leadership has played a vital role in strengthening this partnership.

India and Saudi Arabia will keep moving forward together — for peace, progress and prosperity, not just for our people, but for the entire world.

Q. Given your previous seven meetings with Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, how would you characterize the personal rapport between the leadership of both countries? Has his rapport influenced the bilateral relationship in any way?

A. Every time I have met him, His Royal Highness has left a deep impression on me. His insights, his forward-thinking vision, and his passion for fulfilling the aspirations of his people are truly remarkable.

Under his leadership, Saudi Arabia has undergone tremendous social and economic transformation. The reforms he has undertaken have not just inspired the region, but also caught the attention of the entire world. One can see the transformational changes in the country under Vision 2030 in a very short period.

I value the personal warmth and trust we share. And, yes, this personal rapport has naturally translated into how both countries give priority to our partnership. He is a strong advocate of our bilateral ties. He has been a great supporter of the Indian diaspora in Saudi Arabia and our people living in Saudi Arabia deeply admire him.

When we talk, we focus on making this partnership future-ready. Jeddah has had a special connection with India. For centuries, this famed city has been one of the principal arteries for our trade and people-to-people exchanges. As a gateway to Makkah, for ages, our pilgrims have walked the by-lanes of Jeddah on their holy journey for Hajj and Umrah.

Q. Saudi Arabia is India’s fifth-largest trading partner. What initiatives are being considered to further diversify and expand this economic partnership so that both countries can better face challenges together?

A. Our economic ties are as old as the monsoon winds. Given the proximity of our nations and the complementarity of our economies, there is a natural connect. That is why even during global challenges, our trade ties have not just survived, but they have grown.

While sectors like energy, agriculture and fertilizers are the main areas of our trade, efforts at diversification have borne fruits. Indian businesses and Saudi industry are building stronger connections.

Building stronger connect between our businesses and industry and enhancing investment partnership is adding resilience to this relationship. Saudi Arabia is a leading energy partner for India. Likewise, India is contributing to food security in Saudi Arabia. I am told people in Saudi Arabia prefer Indian rice! India too loves Saudi dates.

I also see several complementarities between Saudi Vision 2030 and India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 (Developed India 2047 initiative).

Bilateral investments between our countries have also been increasing. Today, the Indian growth story offers immense opportunities for Saudi majors to invest and partner, from space economy to global supply chain collaborations.

Indian companies have also maintained a strong presence across various sectors in Saudi Arabia. They are playing a crucial role in the realization of Saudi Vision 2030.

Our goal is to enhance this connect.

India and Saudi Arabia are working on a Bilateral Investment Treaty. The proposed Free Trade Agreement between India and GCC has immense potential to transform the economic relationship between India and Saudi Arabia, and the region in general.

Q. With Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 emphasizing infrastructure development, what opportunities do you see for Indian companies to contribute to and benefit from these projects, including Riyadh Expo 2030 and Saudi FIFA World Cup 2034?

A. As a close friend, India rejoices in Saudi Arabia’s stellar achievements. I would like to congratulate the people of Saudi Arabia and its leadership for being chosen as the host for World Expo in 2030 and FIFA World Cup in 2034.

It is a matter of immense pride for any country to host two marquee global events within a span of four years. It speaks volumes of the leadership of His Royal Highness and his vision.

These mega events will boost the local economy. They offer opportunities for Indian companies as well. Our companies, as you are aware, have built a global reputation for their quality, competitiveness and efficiency.

I understand that the Indian companies already have a strong participation in Saudi infrastructure and technology sectors. They are also creating value in various mega and giga projects as part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

I also invite Saudi companies to take advantage of the remarkable opportunities in India as part of our Viksit Bharat journey. They can participate in the growth of India’s next-generation infrastructure, logistics, renewable energy, healthcare, utilities, innovation, start-ups and “blue economy” sectors.

Deeper engagements and two-way collaborations between companies of both countries will go a long way in strengthening the bilateral economic partnership.

Q: Given Saudi Arabia’s role as a key supplier of crude oil and petroleum products to India, how do you envision the future of energy collaboration between the two nations, especially in the context of global energy transitions?

A. Energy has been an important pillar of our economic partnership. Saudi Arabia has been a strong and reliable energy partner for us. It is one of our top suppliers of crude and other petroleum products. As India seeks to become a developed country, our energy demands will continue to grow. And Saudi Arabia will remain a close partner in our energy security. As strategic partners we agree that our energy cooperation is not limited to mere buyer-seller relationships. We are also exploring joint projects in refineries and petrochemicals.

The world is also witnessing a gradual shift toward cleaner and more sustainable energy resources. India is moving ahead with an ambitious target for green transition. We are confident of achieving 500 GW renewable energy target by 2030.

Even in this journey, there is an immense scope of collaboration with Saudi Arabia. This includes the areas of supply chains, circular economy, energy efficiency and green hydrogen. As partners in the International Solar Alliance, both countries can work toward innovative solutions for future energy needs.

During the New Delhi G20 Summit in 2023, along with His Royal Highness, we launched the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) initiative. We are now working on feasibility studies for electricity grid interconnectivity between India and Saudi Arabia and the wider region. As you can see, we are moving ahead with the vision of a comprehensive energy partnership between our two countries.

Q. Saudi-India defense engagements and joint exercises have been steadily increasing. What are the key areas of focus for defense and security cooperation in the coming years?

A. We consider Saudi Arabia as a force of positivity and stability in the region. As maritime neighbors, India and Saudi Arabia share a natural interest in safeguarding peace and stability in the region.

The growing defense and security engagement and collaboration between the two countries is a reflection of deep mutual trust. It is also a testament to our shared commitment to regional stability, and our mutual resolve to address the evolving challenges in our extended neighborhood.

We have seen steady progress in security cooperation. This includes areas such as counterterrorism, combating extremism, disrupting terror financing and tackling drug trafficking. We are also exploring new frontiers of cooperation in cybersecurity, recognizing its growing importance in today’s interconnected world.

Last year, we achieved an important milestone: the first-ever joint exercises between the two land forces. These were complemented by two successful rounds of the joint naval exercise Al-Mohed Al-Hindi, which were held in 2021 and 2023.

Both of us support deeper defense-industry collaboration. Over the past decade, defense manufacturing has taken deeper roots in India. Today, there is a strong military industrial complex with the ability to manufacture quality ammunition, small arms, tanks, armored carriers. For the air force, we are building drones, advanced light helicopters and fighter jets. For the navy, we have the capacity to build patrol boats, submarines, and even aircraft carriers.

We are not just fulfilling our own needs. India has also emerged as an important supplier of defense equipment to more than 100 countries around the world.

I am glad that we have been able to meet some needs of the armed forces in Saudi Arabia. We support deeper engagement between private-sector players from both countries. We would welcome Saudi investment into the defense manufacturing sector in India that has been opened for private investment.

Q. The IMEEC initiative that was announced in September 2023 in New Delhi is an ambitious project to connect India and Europe through the Middle East. What are the key elements of IMEEC, and how is India working with Saudi Arabia to achieve the goals envisioned under this initiative?

A. India and Saudi Arabia, along with European Union, the UAE, France, Germany, Italy and the US, jointly launched the India Middle East Europe Corridor initiative in New Delhi in September 2023.

This corridor will define the future of connectivity in all forms for centuries to come. It will become the key catalyst of commerce, connectivity and growth in the entire region. The corridor will enhance connectivity in all its forms, be it physical or digital.

It will facilitate development of resilient and dependable supply chains, increase trade accessibility and improve trade facilitation. The corridor will increase efficiencies, reduce costs, enhance economic unity, generate jobs and lower greenhouse gas emission, resulting in a transformative integration of Asia, Europe and the Middle East.

Both India and Saudi Arabia have a key role to play in the success of this corridor. We are committed to working with our Saudi partners to realize the vision of connectivity, including multi-modal logistic connectivity, data connectivity and electrical grid connectivity. We are working on clean and green hydrogen and related supply chains under this initiative.

I visualize this initiative has a transformational potential for humanity. It can be the new Silk Route of the 21st century that will bring benefit to the generations to come.

Q. The Indian community of 2.7 million in Saudi Arabia has been praised by you as a binding force in bilateral ties. How does your government plan to further support and engage with the Indian diaspora in the Kingdom?

A. First of all, let me put it on record that we are deeply grateful to Their Royal Highnesses, King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, for the patronage they have provided to the Indian community in Saudi Arabia. We can never forget how they took care of the Indians as one of their own during the difficult times of the COVID pandemic.

Indians have a very important character — whichever country they go, they make it their home. They are law abiding, dedicated and professional to the core. They carry with them the values of empathy, compassion and care.

This very nature earns them respect of their host country. Saudi Arabia is no exception. Whenever I have met His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, he has praised the Indian community and appreciated their significant contribution to the economic growth of the Kingdom. He has even said that they are part of the Saudi family. These words of praise always fill my heart with pride and joy.

For my government, the members of the Indian diaspora are the “rashtradoots” (national ambassadors). The 4Cs — Care, Connect, Celebrate and Contribute — is the motto of our engagement with our diaspora. Their safety, welfare and well-being is paramount for us.

Over the past decade we have launched many initiatives, including insurance schemes, scholarships for their children, and skilling programs. We have established mechanisms for safe and legal migration. The 2.7 million vibrant Indian community in Saudi Arabia is a living bridge connecting our two countries. I commend them for not only preserving their values and traditions, but also promoting them.

I eagerly look forward to reconnecting with the Indian diaspora during this visit.

Q: How do you see religious tourism, cultural and educational exchanges developing as a component of Saudi-India bilateral relations? Do you foresee India’s IITs and IIMs opening campuses in Saudi Arabia, along the lines of IIT Delhi, Abu Dhabi campus?

A. Our people have interacted with each other since the days of “Kalila wa Dimna.” The growing cultural connect between our countries is indicative of the understanding and appreciation for each other.

As far as religious tourism is concerned, as you know we have a large Muslim population and they visit your beautiful country each year for Umrah and Hajj pilgrimage. We are grateful to the Saudi leadership for the continued assistance provided to Indian pilgrims. Yoga has gained considerable popularity in Saudi Arabia over the recent years, thanks to the encouragement and support of the Saudi government. We are also noticing a growing interest in cricket.

I am told that Arab broadcasters run dedicated channels with Indian content that are very popular in the Kingdom. There is also a wide following for Indian films and actors. India is hosting the first edition of the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit in Mumbai during May 1-4. We look forward to a strong participation from Saudi Arabia at the summit so that we can give new wings to our cultural and entertainment collaboration.

Educational cooperation is another promising area. Indian higher education institutions are recognized globally. They are ready to take up opportunities, as and when those arise in Saudi Arabia as well.

Finally, let me congratulate Arab News as it completes 50 years of its publication this year. I know Arab News has a special connection with Indians living in the Kingdom. Your media outlet is a strong symbol of our people-to-people ties. My best wishes to you as you continue to nourish India-Saudi Arabia friendship.

Following is the clipping of the interview:

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Source: ARAB NEWS