Narendra Modi completes 25 years in public office, aims for Viksit Bharat by 2047

Prime Minister Narendra Modi completed 25 years in public life on Wednesday, marking a continuous journey as head of government since taking charge as Gujarat Chief Minister in October 2001 and later as Prime Minister. Marking the milestone, Modi stated that he would not stop, get tired, or get diverted until India became a developed country by 2047. The address comes amid recent speculation about his future political timeline, following his 76th birthday on September 17 and recent protests from Gen Z against his government.

Reflections

Modi thanked the BJP, the NDA, and 140 crore Indians for their trust, bowing before Indian democracy and the Constitution. Reflecting on his early days, he recalled being the first student to reach class in school in Vadnagar and stated that he still considers himself a student. He mentioned overcoming challenges like the Bhuj earthquake, the Covid-19 pandemic, and critical media portrayals. He also acknowledged the selfless service of countless swayamsevaks and noted that his time before electoral politics involved working for the organization and living in jungles and mountains.

Governance

Recalling the state of the national economy when he took charge at the Centre, Modi noted it was once described as a gone case before the picture changed through national resilience. He asserted that agricultural growth had broken all records over the past decade. He emphasized that solutions to common difficulties should apply to all communities, aiming for total coverage of beneficiaries. Furthermore, Modi stated that India's ancient glory must be revived, noting that invaders once burnt its universities and libraries even though the country's courage never collapsed.

Context

Milestones in political leadership often prompt evaluations of long-term governance records and future policy trajectories in large democracies. The concept of Viksit Bharat by 2047 serves as a long-term national planning benchmark tied to the centenary of India's independence. Such anniversaries provide leaders an opportunity to outline their political legacy and rally public support for upcoming national goals.