PM Modi credits critics, citizens on 25 years of public service

Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked 25 years of public service this week, framing his political journey as a lesson in democratic resilience learned from his critics. He stated that the trust of the people is the sole foundation of his authority and reiterated his commitment to achieving a developed India, or 'Viksit Bharat', by 2047.

Modi said those who opposed him during his public life helped him understand the strength of democracy. He credited the citizens of India for his position. "Those who opposed me taught me the power of democracy," Modi stated. He believes his responsibilities stem entirely from the trust placed in him by the public. The Prime Minister reaffirmed that the trust earned over his 25-year administrative career belongs entirely to the citizens of India.

Modi said the country had given him a great deal and therefore his responsibility towards the nation is the greatest. He sincerely believes that the citizens of the country have the greatest right over him. Pitching his vision for national advancement, Modi declared, "Viksit Bharat by 2047, we will do it; hosting the Olympics, we will do it; setting foot in space, we will do it."

Vision for national advancement

Modi's articulated goals for India center on the Viksit Bharat 2047 target. He explicitly linked this long-term development vision with hosting the Olympic Games and advancing the nation's space exploration capabilities. These ambitions were presented as collective national undertakings.

Personal formative experiences

The Prime Minister pointed to specific national events that shaped his outlook. The 2001 Bhuj earthquake taught him to remain steadfast during reconstruction. The Chandrayaan mission taught him to rise from failure. The Covid-19 pandemic made him realise the importance of the nation’s collective consciousness.

Modi acknowledged the media for inspiring him to move forward amidst bitter-sweet experiences. He described an innate eagerness to learn, saying he was always among the students who reached the class first and that this trait became a part of his life. I still consider myself a student, he said, adding that the more he learns, the greater his ability will be to do something for the country.

Seva Sankalp Abhiyan culmination in Varanasi and Vadnagar

The remarks coincided with the conclusion of the month-long Seva Sankalp Abhiyan, which began on September 17. The yatra concluded with special events in Vadnagar, Modi's hometown, and Varanasi, his parliamentary constituency.

Senior state leaders attended the Vadnagar event. A roster of BJP figures addressed the gatherings in both cities.

In Varanasi, the Seva Yatris concluded their journey with Jalabhishek at the Kashi Vishwanath Dham. In Vadnagar, the yatra reached its finale at the historic Hatkeshwar Mahadev Mandir. The closing ceremonies drew thousands of Seva Yatris, BJYM workers, and young citizens.

Broader context of Modi’s political trajectory

Modi's 25-year milestone is calculated from his first oath as head of a government. He took oath as Chief Minister of Gujarat on October 7, 2001. He has served as Prime Minister since May 2014. The recent 'Viksit Bharat Sankalp Sabha' was part of the events marking this anniversary.

The Seva Sankalp Abhiyan concluded with Jalabhishek at Kashi Vishwanath Dham in Varanasi and the finale at Hatkeshwar Mahadev Mandir in Vadnagar.