Modi @ 75! A Special Feature by Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar by Asian Business Publications Ltd

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E L E B R A T I N G S E R V I C E ,

E L E B R A T I N G M O D I

Anusha Singh

“I am committed to fulfilling the dreams of every Indian, especially the poor and the marginalised ”

Narendra Modi

cakes or pomp, but through service. Each year, the day becomes a reflection of his leadership:

releasing cheetahs into the wild to inaugurating housing projects or spending time with differently-abled children, Modi transforms personal milestones into national moments of service. In private, he maintained only one personal ritual of visiting his mother, a tradition he observed faithfully throughout her life.

Over the past decade, Modi’s birthdays have consistently reflected a life dedicated to public service This year, as he turned 75, Modi visited Dhar district in Madhya Pradesh, engaging directly with locals while launching the Swasth Nari Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan, aimed at strengthening maternal and child healthcare, alongside the 8th National Nutrition Month to combat malnutrition nationwide. Social media carries the formal greetings, but Modi himself immerses in work, using the day to champion welfare initiatives, meet citizens, and drive development programs

His dedication resonates deeply with the people of India. Across the country, citizens and communities celebrate his birthday by launching initiatives in his name, from health drives and tree plantations to charity events and education campaigns. In schools, offices, and public spaces, tributes pour in and the widespread admiration he c o m m a n d s a c r o s s r e g i o n s , c o m m u n i t i e s , a n d generations is one not every leader is blessed with

Continued on 13 - 22

Let noble thoughts come to us from every side

M odi and the global Ind ian wav e

Modi’s popularity is not confined to Indian shores; he enjoys considerable support among the Indian diaspora, particularly in the United Kingdom British Indians,

e s p e c i a l l y G u j a r a t i s , h a v e l o n g maintained strong cultural, familial, and business ties with India, and Modi’s outreach has resonated with this community

W h e n t h e I n d i a n P r i m e

Minister visited the UK in 2015, he did more than address a crowd, he created a historic moment for the I n d i a n d i a s p o r a S t a n d i n g a t Wembley Stadium before 60,000 cheering supporters, Modi hailed the “special relationship” between India and the UK

Arriving on stage with then-UK

Prime Minister David Cameron, he told the audience, “I would like to ensure you that the dreams you

h a v e d r e a m t a n d t h e d r e a m s every Indian has dreamt India is capable of fulfilling these dreams

There is no reason for India to remain a poor country ” A decade later, these words resonate as a testament to India’s trajectory under his leadership Cameron, introducing Modi, emphasised that the UK-India relationship was “about our potential,” united by ambition The crowd erupted when he predicted that a British Indian would soon occupy Downing Street a prophecy that also came true when Rishi Sunak was made No 10 his resident

C a m e r o n h a d a l s o a d d e d , “Team India, team UK together we are a winning combination ” Under PM Modi’s leadership, India has collaborated seamlessly with three successive UK prime minis-

t e r s , m a i n t a i n i n g a p r o f e s s i o n

a n d c o n s t r u c t i v e r e l a t i o n s h i p through each transition This sustained engagement bore fruit earlier this year with the signing of the long-awaited UK-India Free Trade Agreement

M o d i ’ s c o n n e c t i o n w i t h t h e diaspora as India’s Prime Minister has been celebrated since his visit to the US in 2014, when nearly 20,000 diaspora gathered at New Y o r k ’ s M a d i s o n S q u a r e G a r d e n These events weren’t mere rallies; they were a deliberate affirmation of identity For decades, the diaspora had endured subtle stereotyping in their host countries and a sense of guilt over leaving India Modi transformed this narrative

B y c a l l i n g t h e m I n d i a ’ s “ b r a n d ambassadors,” he reframed their

a c h i e v e m e n t s a s a s o u r c e o f national pride, not personal compromise

The diaspora, particularly in the UK and America where Indianorigin communities rank among the highest earners and most educated, embraced this message No longer were they seen merely as remittance senders, they became

c r u c i a l c o n t r i b u t o r s t o I n d i a ’ s global influence Modi’s outreach

b o o s t e d t h e i r s e l f - e s t e e m a n d pride, allowing them to celebrate their Indian heritage openly Today, as India rises towards

becoming the world’s third-largest economy, the diaspora takes pride in the nation’s story, and Modi is widely recognised as its architect

W h e n e v e r h e v i s i t s a b r o a d , t h e overwhelming support he receives is a reflection of decades of careful diplomacy and genuine engagem e n t w i t h I n d i

Modi doesn’t just speak to the diasp

active participants in shaping its global image M odi’s India: One transform ative vision

Modi’s 75th birthday is also a moment to reflect on his vision for

remarkable transformation, evolving from a developing nation into a

advanced technology At the heart of this transformation is Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, which places self-reliance, innovation, and indigenous development at the core of national policy

Initiatives such as Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India have s

ties, fostered public-private partnerships, and propelled India into a leadership position on the global stage

India’s defence sector has seen unprecedented growth With the backing of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), India joined the elite

We were truly blessed to welcome Prime Minister Modi to Luton last month during his visit to the UK It was a great honour to meet him and I have followed his leadership closely since he and his party came to power

One of the major challenges that always seemed to hold India back was the wide gap between classes; people either being very poor or very rich Another significant challenge was infrastructure This is where I truly admire Modi and his government Since coming into power, they have been driving an ambitious agenda of i

Today, India has made remarkable progress in highways, airports, retail, and other sectors

Western world India is now

top

funds, which positions the country strongly on its path to becoming one of the global superpow-

club of nations with advanced m i l i t a r y

, India successfully tested a laserbased directed energy weapon to neutralise drones, joining the US, Russia, and China The country

Scramjet engine for hypersonic missiles and tested its first longrange hypersonic missile, capable of carrying nuclear and conventional warheads The integration of MIRV technology in the Agni-V missile further enhances India’s strategic flexibility, while developments in autonomous stealth UAVs and naval missile defence signal India’s entry into futuristic warfare capabilities

India’s space ambitions have been equally audacious In 2023, it became the first nation to land on the Moon’s south pole, joining the US, China, and Russia in lunar exploration ISRO’s SpaDEx miss

satellite docking and undocking, while the Integrated Cryogenic E

(ICMF) positions India as a nextgeneration space propulsion leader The 2017 PSLV-C37 launch of 104 satellites marked India’s entry into elite satellite-launch capabilities

semiconductors, quantum computing, and AI, aiming to lead rather than follow Initiatives like Semicon India and the National M

ers From my personal perspective, what Modi has achieved, putting India prominently on the world map, is something every Indian, no matter where they live, can be proud of Indians are now recognised globally, not as second-class citizens, but as leaders in business, innovation, and governance This transformation is a testament to him and his government

-Surind er Arora, Founder & Execu tive Ch airman

(NMQTA) showcase India’s ambitions in next-generation technology

Over the past decade, India has also undergone a profound e n t r e p r

t i o n , positioning itself as the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem, behind only the United States and China Read more about it on page 19

U n d e r M

India has shifted from aspiration t o a c h

that its potential is limitless From

Basaveshwara Foundation, it is a matter of great pride that the first conceptual Hindu statue in the U K

B a s a v e

r a s t a t u e ,

c a t e d opposite the British Parliament, marks the first time an Indian Prime Minister has inaugurated a statue i n G r e a t B r i t a i n

T h i s h i s t o r i c m o m e n t i s f u r t h e r s i g n i f i c a n t a s i t i s the first conceptual

H i n d u s t a t u e a p p r o v e d b y t h e

C a b i n e t u n d e r t h e Statues Act of 1854

The monument honours a philosopher who, centuries b e f o r e t h e M a g n a

C a r t a , c h a m p i o n e d democracy, equality, human rights, and freedom of speech, earning recognition as a true “father of democracy ” The unveiling by Modi, India’s first H i n d u P r i m e M i n i s t e r , u n d e rscores this historic connection and should be recorded in history books The event also reflects Modi’s personal bond with the U K , w h i c h h e r e f e r e n c e s f r equently in speeches

Modi is admired globally as a statesman who has brought stab i l i t y t o I n d i a ’ s i n t e r n a

y ranked among the world’s top

demonstrated that a leader from

We recently held a celebration for Narendra Modi's 75th birthday in Parliament, bringing the community together for this special occas i o n T h e e v e n t w a s l e d b y a respected priest from one of our local temples in Harrow We were also joined by two distinguished gurus from India as special guests as we also had a pre-Navaratri celebration

The celebration highlighted the strong connection the Indian diaspora in the UK has with their homeland Narendra Modi is an inspirational leader whose journey, from humble beginnings as a “chai walla” in Gujarat to becomi

demonstrates the power of deter-

Celebrating service, celebrating Modi

satellites to quantum computers, India is no longer just catching up; it is setting the pace, emerging as a true global leader

As he turns 75, Modi stands not only as a figure of domestic authority but also as a statesman w

beyond India’s borders For supporters, Modi repre-

polarising force in both domestic and international affairs Either way, his impact on India, and the world, remains undeniable

humble beginnings can rise to global prominence

Modi’s governance emphasises transparency, anti-corruption measures, economic growth, and public welfare Initiatives such as

Atmanirbhar Bharat reflects his

Under his leadership, Kashmir has seen significant development, and India has projected a strong, zero-tolerance stance against terrorism

Through steady and visionary leadership, Modi has positioned I

highlight of his lasting impact both at home and abroad

-D r Neeraj Patil, Chairman of Hindus for Labou r, Th e Labo ur Party Ch airman of Th e Lambeth Basaveshwara Fo undation

Minister of Gujarat, he brought

and as Prime Minister, he has worked to empower the poor and

improve their lives through both personal effort and societal support Modi’s leadership is defined b

demonetisation have curbed corruption and reduced the

grow at a pace admired globally

Having met him several times in India and the UK, I consider him one of my political heroes -Bob Blackm an, M em ber of Parliament for Harrow East

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Wembley Stadium London 2015

Surinder Arora welcoming Narendra Modi as he arrived in Luton

Dr Neeraj Patil introduces Narendra Modi as he unveils the Basaveshwara statue opposite the British Parliament in 2015

A life in photographs

From the tea stalls of Vadnagar to the corridors of power in New Delhi, the life of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a story of grit, discipline, and vision Born in 1950 into a modest family, Modi’s early years were defined by simplicity and service, qualities that would later shape his political journey His path was anything but ordinary; marked by years of grassroots work with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a rise through the ranks of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and ultimately his election as the 14th Prime Minister of India in 2014

Over the decades, Modi has been at the centre of historic moments that reshaped India’s trajectory; whether rebuilding Gujarat after the devastating Bhuj earthquake, transforming it into an investment hub as Chief Minister, or leading India onto the global stage as Prime Minister with initiatives like Make in India, Digital India, and Startup India His leadership has brought India into the global spotlight, from record-breaking space achievements to landmark diplomatic ties

This “life in photos” captures Narendra Modi’s journey across decades: from a boy with humble beginnings to a leader admired by millions, whose story is intertwined with India’s modern transformation

A young stalwart

A special connection with Gujarat Samachar and Asian Voice

In August 2003, two years after the Bhuj earthquake, Narendra Modi visited the United Kingdom to address thousands from the Indian diaspora many of whom had mobilised support and resources for Gujarat during the 2001 disaster He lauded their generosity and deep emotional connection to India, calling them “the true friends of Gujarat ”

During the visit, Modi inaugurated Shakti Hall at the offices of Gujarat Samachar and Asian Voice on 20 August 2003 True to his visionary style, he spoke of the future, delivering a line fondly remembered by Asian Voice Editor-in-Chief CB Patel; “IT is not Information Technology,” he said “IT is India Today BT is not

Information Technology and Indian Talent is India Tomorrow ”

to commemorate the

Then Gujarat BJP's General Secretary, Narendra Modi, the charioteer for the Gujarat leg of the Somnath-Ayodhya

of democracy "

Newly re-elected Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with the party President Amit Shah, arrives at the party headquarters to celebrate victory in Lok Sabha elections in May 2019

Modi seeks Ram Lalla Virajman's blessing prior to laying the foundation for Ram Mandir

Prime Minister Narendra Modi showing victory sign to supporters at Bharatiya Janata Party office following Indian General Elections 2024 win

In 2011,

Golden Jubilee of Gujarat’s formation, Narendra Modi addressed a high-profile audience in Mayfair, London, without leaving Gandhinagar “The name Gujarat and development are synonymous Gujarat is creating history,” he told the engaged diaspora The event, hosted by Friends of Gujarat, Gujarat Samachar, and Asian Voice, welcomed 90 distinguished guests, including British MPs, Lords, and community leaders (Pictured on the right)

Narendra Modi addressing the diaspora in the UK Also pictured, seated second from the left, is CB Patel, Editor-in-Chief of Gujarat Samachar and Asian Voice

Global leaders praise Modi’s leadership on his 75th birthday

On the occasion of Prim e

M inister Narend ra Mod i’s 75th birthday, greetings p oured in from acro ss the g lo be World leaders extended warm wishes and highlighted their hopes of further strengthening diplomatic ties and advancing international cooperation with India At home, the celebrations were

equally significant Senior party colleagues and key allies from the National Democratic Alliance conveyed their congratulations, lauding the Prime Minister’s leadership and vision for the country’s development Leaders from the opposition parties also joined in, setting aside political differences to extend their best wishes

President V lad imir P utin extended warm birthday wishes to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, commending his “great personal contribution” to deepening the India–Russia partnership

In a message posted on the Kremlin website, Putin said Modi has earned “high respect at home and enorm

impressive social, economic, scientific, and technological progress under his leadership He highlighted Modi’s role in strengthening the countries’ “special privileged strategic partnership” and advancing mutually beneficial cooperation across key sectors

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wished Prime Minister Narendra Modi a happy birthday, calling him a “good friend ”

In a video message shared on X, Netanyahu praised

progress in India-Israel relations “We have accomplished a great deal together, and I look forward to seeing you soon so we can take our partnership to even greater heights,” he said

In a video message, Indian-origin former UK Prime Minister Rish i S unak wished Prime Minister Narendra Modi a happy 75th birthday, calling it a “great pleasure ” He described Modi as a “good friend” to both him and Britain and expressed delight at UK–India ties growing stronger

Reflecting on his 2023 G20 visit to India, Sunak said the summit was a “superb event befitting India’s standing on the world stage” and added that, as someone from a British-Indian family, the relationship holds a special place in his heart He concluded by wishing Modi all the best and said he looked forward to seeing him soon

While several leaders called Prime Minister Modi, others shared video or text messages on social media to convey their wishes Leaders including Australian Prime minister Anthony Albanese, Bhutanese prime minister Tshering Tobgay, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Myanmar President Min

Between reverence and controversy in modern Indian politics

Aung Hlaing, Guyana President Irfaan Ali, Dominica Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, Microsoft co founder Bill Gates, Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape, Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides, and Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar also extended their birthday greetings

A day earlier, US President Donald Trum p phoned Prime Minister Narendra Modi to extend birthday greetings, raising hopes of a reset in strained bilateral ties following Washington’s decision to double tariffs on Indian goods Trump praised Modi’s “tremendous job” and thanked him for supporting efforts to end the war in Ukraine

Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni extended birthday greetings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his 75th birthday

In a post on X, she praised Modi’s leadership, highlighting his “strength, determination and ability to lead m

Accompanying the message was a photograph of the two leaders smiling for a selfie, reflecting their rapport In her caption, Meloni wished him health and energy to continue guiding India’s future and to further strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations

Minister Modi

President of the European Commission U rsula v on der Leyen also called Prime Minister Narendra Modi to extend her birthday wishes

In response, Modi said India is ready to elevate its relationship with the EU and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to an early and peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict He also reiterated his invitation to host the next India–EU Summit in India next year

It’s f asc inating to t hink abou t PM Modi; on his birthday, many wrote about him , and around 200 books have b een publ is hed on his life and leaders hip But w hat do other w orl d l eaders think of him ? What would Donal d T rum p or V ladim ir Putin make of him? What is going throu gh the m inds of Pakis tan’s leaders, or Xi Jinping? And what about his true admirers , his critics , or political rivals l ike Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi?

The bigger question is: how can we ever know what people are truly thinking, beyond what they say? Modern science offers one method, a “ narco ” test, conducted while someone is unconscious Yet a recent report revealed a criminal so clever that he completely misled investigators during such a test, showing even this method isn’t fool proof

There’s an argument that writing about someone while they are still alive often leads either to excessive admiration or to prejudice Once, during a conversation with Atal Bihari Vajpayee, he remarked: “If you want to write a book about someone ’ s life, don’t do it while they are alive No matter how hard you try to stay neutral, bias or prejudice inevitably creeps in ” I joked that even the books written about Gandhiji after his death show this, and he laughed

PM Modi is a 21st-century leader you can neither fully admire nor entirely criticise Our friend CB Patel of “Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar” urged me to cover him in the supplement, leaving me wondering what to write

Many research writers claim, “We have written about him after thorough research, using material found nowhere else ” Really? Our Marathi writer friend Girish Dabke, in the days following the Godhra riots, had already documented Narendrabhai’s role in his book titled “Narendrayan”

I jokingly remarked that Narendrabhai’s opponents, whose numbers have swelled recently with elections in Bihar and elsewhere, along with certain channels, YouTube creators, and other platforms, dig up incidents, contexts, and details from every corner to craft a narrative so convincing that the average reader begins to believe it These critics fail to realise that, just as social media blurs facts, audiences have become savvy enough to see through it They know some outlets exaggerate or even fabricate stories; for instance, if a stray dog wandered into Modi’s roadshow, it might be portrayed as if he had orchestrated it

Elections themselves aren’t new, and the system has long faced criticism Many in Saurashtra will remember the period between 1952 and 1962, when opposition leaders and workers visiting villages often encountered burly men with moustaches sitting at crossroads, guns slung over their shoulders, while boards hanging from trees warned: “Opposition party members are advised not to enter this village!”I have personally witnessed such incidents, and there were numerous newspaper reports of rigging during voting Today, while t h e

Commission, Rahul Gandhi casually throws around “bomb” remarks and demonstrates his “decency” by calling the Prime Minister a “thief ” During the tenure of one of his ancestors as Prime Minister, an election in Kashmir was manipulated so that all nomination papers of Praja Parishad candidates were rejected, ensuring a guaranteed victory for Sheikh Abdullah’s party Another of Rahul’s ancestors, seeking to assert control over t h

Commissioner R K Trivedi (who briefly also served as Gujarat’s Governor) announced Assembly elections despite widespread unrest The agitators in Assam mostly intellectuals, writers, women, and students, boycotted the polls until the issue of infiltration was resolved Yet the Election Commission and central government pressed ahead, resulting in tragedies like the Nellie massacre With public turnout only five to ten percent in most areas, the elected representat

deposits What kind of government can emerge from such a flawed process?

It’s ironic to overlook these historical events and now label the entire government a “vote thief ” Yet one thing is certain: today’s democracy is resilient enough to withstand such theatrics, provocations, casteism, and endless accusations In this context, efforts to encircle the current Prime Minister and his party from all sides have already begun Don’t be naïve enough to think foreign powers aren’t involved, political upheavals rarely occur suddenly or in isolation In this sense, power and politics have become “globalised,” and in a democracy, the stakes and opportunities are even greater The same dynamics play out in other countries as well

In these circumstances, a Gujarati has emerged as one of the most important, most admired, and most opposed figures i n I n d i

Independence, when Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel faced intense opposition Critics even coined the phrase, “the politics of the Gujarati gang will not work anymore ” Rather than focusing on the country, they are deliberately targeting Gujarat itself with a calculated agenda

These are days of severe testing The challenge extends to leaders and workers who, having experienced the satisfaction of power, now enjoy authority solely in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s name

Russian

Russian President Vladimir Putin with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at SCO Summit

Modi meeting US President Donald Trump at White House on February 14, 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing the press meet with the Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, in Jerusalem, Israel on March 05, 2021

PM Modi held a bilateral meeting with Italian PM Giorgia Meloni, on the sidelines of the G20 Summit

Prime

meets

E Ms Ursula Von Der Leyen, President of the European Commission at Hyderabad House in February 2025

Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak held bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Modi at G20 meeting

Padma Shri Vishnu Pandya

Nilesh Parmar

In tod ay ’ s w orld, only a few politicians can actually witness their birthd ay being celebrated across th e g l ob e F ro m o rd i nary ci tiz ens to w orld leaders, words of ad miratio n and respect have been extended

S u c h i s t h e c a s e w i t h P r i m e

Minister Narendra Modi, who commands the hearts of Indians worldwide Born on 17 September 1950 in Vadnagar, Modi marked his 75th birthday, not just with personal celebrations, but through acts of ser-

v i c e a n d r e s p e c t a l o n g s i d e w e l lwishers It is no exaggeration to say that his charisma, vision and policies have left a profound impact both in India and internationally

E v e n U S P r e s i d e n t D o n a l d

Trump, who has often taken a confrontational stance against India for personal or political reasons, pers o n a l l y c a l l e d M o d i o n 1 6 September, just before his visit to the UK, to wish him a happy birthday and to acknowledge that he is doing a “great job ” This gesture

u n d e r s c o r e s t h e g l o b a l i n f l u e n c e and reach of PM Modi

A s i a n V o i c e a n d G u j a r a t

Samachar have had the privilege of a l o n g - s t a n d i n g c o n n e c t i o n w i t h

Modi Even before he became widely known in political circles or as a p r o p a g a t o r o f t h e R a s h t r i y a

Swayamsevak Sangh, they, especially Publisher-Editor CB Patel, maintained a relationship with him, initially indirectly and later through direct interactions

In 1976, CB assumed manage-

m e n t o f G u j a r a t S a m a c h a r i n London From its very first issue, the n e w s p a p e r p r o t e s t e d a g a i n s t

lished In 1977 the dark chapter of Indira Gandhi’s Emergency came to an end in India

i n India in 1977, Morarji Desai came to power, as a result of Jayaprakash Narayan’s movement He especially commended Gujarat Samachar and CB Patel Why? Because during the Emergency, it was New Life (now Asian Voice) and Gujarat Samachar that raised voice against the oppressive laws, spreading waves of awareness among the Indian diaspora and s

democratic values in India

At the same time, B K Nehru, a relative of Indira Gandhi, was serv-

Indian government issued a direc-

Rabindranath Tagore’s poem “India Shall Be Free ” However, rather than complying with the oppressive

hosted the bicentennial celebration

Ahmedabad at the heartfelt invitation of the revered HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj to attend the event

While addressing the devotees, CB also spoke about his family connections with BAPS, including Shastri Maharaj and Yogi Maharaj

After the programme concluded, Pramukh Swami Maharaj retired to his chamber Inside, the saints were active, while outside, devotees waited in line to receive his blessings

When CB went to take his leave, he saw a young Parshad

Emergency in India imposed by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, fulfilling the duty of a newspaper at a crucial historical moment

D u r i n g t h a t p e r i o d , a g r a n d gathering was organised at London’s Alexandra Palace under the patronage of Ramesh Desai, through the international organisation, Friends of India Society (FISI) Thousands of p e o p l e a t t e n d e d t h i s l a n d m a r k event, which was successfully spearheaded by Asian Voice and Gujarat

S a m a c h a r A m o n g t h e n o t a b l e attendees was Makarand Desai, a prominent Jan Sangh leader and scholar, who travelled to London for the occasion

During this period, CB frequently travelled to India and Gujarat Padma Shri Vishnu Pandya was then the editor of Sadhana and CB developed a close acquaintance with him

CB would read the issues of Sadhana

a n d b e c a m e f a m i l i a r w i t h

N a r e n d r a b h

poems, reflections on patriotism, social service and thoughts about his mother Through this, a subtle

order of the Indira Gandhi government, CB boldly published the poem on the front page Following this, the then Indian diplomats managing India House barred CB from entering the premises

However, soon after, when the Indira Gandhi government fell and

Morarji Desai visited London He personally invited CB to the official

Palace and gave him an exclusive interview This detailed interview was later extensively published in New Life (now Asian Voice) and Gujarat Samachar D

Narendrabhai continued his nation-

pracharak and his literary contributions through Sadhana and other publications remained uninterrupted Over time, many of his writings and books were also collected and preserved in CB’s library

with Narendrabhai took place in the

Celebrating the uni

Swami Maharaj was busy conversing with other saints, so CB enquired about Brahmaviharidasji, who had come from Britain for initiation

Narendra Modi, marking CB’s first direct meeting with him

Meanwhile, in 1985, a KIMLOP and BJP government was formed in Gujarat, with Chimanbhai Patel as Chief Minister and Keshubhai Patel as Deputy Chief Minister To gauge the political climate in Gujarat, CB

also travelled to Ahmedabad Many leaders and journalists were present at the Ahmedabad Circuit House during these political developments

Narendrabhai and CB had their

ond meeting, which laid the foundation for a close relationship that has

and

Gujarat Samachar and NCGO-UK, with the entire event organised by CB Patel Subsequently, the political landscape in Gujarat shifted In 1990, the

Brahmavihari

Voice

At the launch event of the book Gujarat na Krantitirtho” held in Ahmedabad in May 2010

Senior Journalist Bhupatrai Parekh, Shri Jaynarayan Vyas, Chief Minister Narendra Modi, author Vishnu Pandya and CB Patel

In August 2003, after inaugurating the ‘Shakti Hall’ at Karmayoga House in London Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi is seen with (from left) Lord Toby Harris, CB Pat Labour Friends of India Chair MP Barry Gardiner, Minister for Coordination at the In Air India s Captain A K Sharma, and (standing behind, from left) noted cultural enthu

In London, after the event at Wembley Stadium in 2015, Prime M Publisher and Editor of Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar, CB Pa

At the NRG Convention held during the Swarnim Gujarat closing ceremony in Gandhinagar in April 2011 then Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi released the coffee-table book “Love Gujarat”, published by Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar Present on the occasion were CB Patel, Chief Executive Director Kamlesh Amin, Public Relations Officer Rachna Mandan and Editorial Coordinator Nilesh Parmar

In 1993, Gujarat Samachar was visited by the late Anil Pota, former president of BJP London; Narendra Modi then a BJP worker from Gujarat and now the Prime Minister of India; and Chandrakant Shukla

ique bond between N D C B P A T E L

inister Narendra Modi and

meet CB handing him a packet, saying, “This is from ‘Sir’ ” The “Sir” was

time, when the matter was presented to Narendrabhai, then serving as G

and

Patel became Chief Minister Due to certain disagreements, Shankersinh Vaghela rebelled, creating political upheaval in the state At that time,

K e s h u b h a i P a t e l , a l o n g w i t h h i s senior minister Vipul Chaudhary, were visiting the UK and were at the Gujarat Samachar office in London

This event was unprecedented for the BJP leadership Just as the party was gaining prominence in Gujarat, it faced a significant political upheaval Despite his dedicated

s e r v i c e d

n t times, Narendrabhai was assigned responsibilities outside Gujarat He was entrusted with overseeing work in Himachal Pradesh, carrying out the party’s directives while based in Delhi In Delhi, his workspace was a

Building CB along with his friend and senior journalist from Gujarat

roughly eight by twelve feet, with a simple floor mattress for sleeping The room had only a small table, a chair, a water jug and a lamp, nothing more

Narendrabhai spoke at length with CB, yet his tone carried no hint of complaint Adapting to circumstances seems to be an inherent part of his nature At that time, while m o s t n e w s p a p e r s i n G u j a r a t remained indifferent to him, the bond with Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar and CB stayed steadfast Upholding the integrity of a newspaper is no small feat, and Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar have consistently fulfilled this responsibility, continues to do so, and will carry it forward in the future

The wheel of time turned The very state that Narendrabhai had once been compelled to leave due to circumstances was later entrusted to his capable hands And the history t h a t f o l l o w e d i s w e l l k n o

vision, administrative skills and acu-

e d Gujarat into the growth engine of the country The Vibrant Gujarat

I n v e s t o r s S u m m i t p r o p e l l e d t h e state firmly onto the path of development

Recalling the Vibrant Gujarat

S u m

stands out During a grand ceremon

Ahmedabad, dignitaries including Chief Minister Narendrabhai Modi were in attendance Honouring a special invitation from the Gujarat government, CB was also present

As Chief Minister Modi entered the hall, he greeted guests warmly, moving ahead in a light-hearted manner while exchanging brief pleasantries

On that chilly day, Narendrabhai wore a woollen cap, prompting CB to jokingly remark, “Sir, this cap suits you really well ” Narendrabhai laughed, shared a few words, and moved on

An endearing event happened

Modi himself When CB opened the packet, he found that Narendrabhai had sent him a similar cap as

gift

with his well-wishers, supporters and close associates When it comes to newspapers

, “ I back your demand, but as this issue falls under the central government (then under the UPA), there’s nothing I can directly do ” Once again, the wheel of time turned The UPA government was replaced, and under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the NDA took charge of the nation C B a c c e l e r a t e d t h e d

n d f o r direct flights On his first visit to Britain as PM Modi addressed the massive gathering of the BritishI n d i a n c o m

Stadium and announced the launch o

nalist, writer, columnist and historian Padma Shri Vishnu Pandya, had its prestigious launch in the presence of Asian Voice, Gujarat S

travelled to Gujarat for the occasion and the ceremony was held at the elegant Cambay Grand Hotel in Thaltej, Ahmedabad The event was g r

Minister Narendra Modi and the respected Morari Bapu, who formally inaugurated the book W

that played

decisive role in India’s freedom struggle, the coffee-table book “Love Gujarat” celebrated the state’s journey of development At

Narendrabhai Modi has shared

Voice, Gujarat Samachar and CB Take, for instance, the year 1993

London, Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar were the only newspapers he met In an interview given to

Editor, Jyotsnaben Shah, he spoke openly and sincerely

Narendrabhai visited the UK, CB would hold meetings with prominent British-Gujarati organisations such as the Sardar Patel Memorial

Narendrabhai always in attendance

Samachar organised a grand event in London titled “Gujarat Model of

addressed on videolink The event

taries from various fields, including Sir Gulam Noon, the India-loving MP Bob Blackman, Lord Bhikhu Parekh, Lord Navnit Dholakia and many others, representing the pride of the British-Indian community When it comes to celebrating t

Indian community or raising voices o

Gujarat Samachar and CB Patel have never held back Narendra Modi himself has publicly acknowledged and praised these efforts The push

Ahmedabad and London was initiate

Samachar CB made a series of presentations on this issue, from the Gujarat government to Delhi At the

Ahmedabad and London Not only that, while publicly lauding CB as an ambassador of Indian community for his relentless efforts to make this flight a reality, the Prime Minister also added that whenever CB went t o G u j a r a t , h e h a d p e r s i s t e n t l y raised the issue with him “At that time, our government was not in power at the Centre, so we were constrained, but now we are honouring your efforts and demand by starting the direct flight,” he added

That moment has now become t o d a y ’ s r e a l i t y T h e A h m e d a b a d –

London–Ahmedabad direct flight is operating continuously Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar take pride and joy in this achievement The essence of all this is simple: whether it is Narendrabhai or Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar, whether it concerns public interest or public welfare, they have never taken a step back

Over more than five decades of active publication, Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar have produced numerous memorable editions and few would deny this legacy What is most remarkable about these publications is that through their books, they have never attempted to distort history or obstruct Gujarat’s d e v e l o p m e n t T h e c o m m e n d a b l e efforts of Asian Voice and Gujarat S a m a c h a r h a v e a l w a y s r e c e i v e d encouragement and support from Narendra Modi, which is a matter of pride for the ABPL Group

S p e a k i n g o f s p e c i a l p u b l i c ations, one recalls the launch of the b o o k “ G u j a r a t

This remarkable book, written after extensive research by senior jour-

Modi specially lauded this effort The book was also presented as a gift to distinguished guests visiting from abroad

birth anniversary of Maharaja Sir Sayajirao Gaekwad III of Vadodara, the book “Life and Legacy” was published, chronicling his life and the history of Vadodara The inau-

public ceremony in Vadodara

The strong bond of affection between PM Modi, Asian Voice, Gujarat Samachar and CB Patel can be traced to a shared purpose: their

welfare of people At the heart of all three has always been the public interest From his early days as a grassroot RSS pracharak to reaching the highest office of the country as Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has always kept the common citizen at the centre of his thoughts and actions His ideas and decisions have consistently reflected a spirit of public welfare

Similarly, Asian Voice, Gujarat S

have always placed the interests of the British-Indian community at the forefront They have never hesitated to raise their voice against challenges facing the community This shared commitment explains why Narendra Modi holds a special place in the hearts of Indians and w

Samachar, under CB’s leadership, occupies a cherished place among the British Indian community

addressing the audience, then el, Lord Navnit Dholakia, MP Keith Vaz, ndian High Commission P C Haldar, usiast Vinubhai Vadgama and others

atel seen sharing a light moment

In March 2012, at a ceremony in Vadodara marking the 150th birth anniversary of Sir Sayajirao III, then Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi and Urban Development Minister Nitinbhai Patel released the coffee-table book Life and Legacy Sir Sayajirao Gaekwad III, published by Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar, along with CB Patel, Chief Executive Director Kamlesh Amin and Prof Bansidhar Sharma

Narendra Modi: From devotion to leadership, a life of service

Swami Brahmaviharidas, BAPS

Recently, the Amrit Mahotsav of Prime Minister Narendra Modi was celebrated. As a saint of a global religious and social organisation, whenever I reflect on him, one thing stands out clearly: age and challenges have never been obstacles for him

Since Modi Saheb became the Chief Minister of Gujarat and later the Prime Minister, I have had the privilege of meeting him on numerous occasions over the past 11 years My most recent meeting took place last month (August 2025) in Delhi Among

remains particularly vivid

First impressions: A glimpse of service

Back in 1981, a few of us teenagers travelled from England to India to receive initiation from H H Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the spiritual head of BAPS At that time, Ahmedabad was hosting the bicentenary

We were aspirants, dressed in white dhotis and robes, performing whatever service was assigned to us My responsibility was to guide the dignitaries around the sprawling 200-acre festival grounds

One evening, during a bhajan-sandhya by the singer Anup Jalota, I escorted Anupji to Swamishri Swamishri was seated on a sofa, Anupji on a nearby chair and I sat on the floor Right beside me, cross-legged, was a young Narendrabhai, about thirty years old He looked at me and asked, “Are you going to take initiation?” I nodded That moment marked my first glimpse of him

S u d d e n l y , N a r e n d r a b h a i ’ s a t t e n t i o n shifted to Swamishri’s feet Swamishri sat on the sofa in his characteristic posture, one leg folded crosswise and the other resting atop it As they spoke, Narendrabhai subtly bent his right foot, aligning and comparing the lines of his sole with those of Swamishri Noticing this, Swamishri gently covered his foot with his dhoti and smiling warmly, said, “The lines on both our feet are the same, the line of service The line of serving until the very last breath ”

This moment, which occurred nearly 44 years ago, is one Narendrabhai still recalls f r e q u e n t l y , s a y i n g , “ I h a v e p l a c e d Swamishri’s command to serve until the last breath upon my head ” Two weeks after this incident, we received our parshadi diksha

A gesture of thoughtfulness

The next incident took place in 2000, during the groundbreaking ceremony of Delhi Akshardham H H Pramukh Swami Maharaj was seated on the stage, with a m a s s i v e c r o w d g a t h e r e d b e f o r e h i m Suddenly, Swamishri called out to me: “Can y o u s e e N

assembly, I replied, “No, Swami, I can’t spot him ”

Pointing, he said, “Look, he’s sitting far away After the ceremony, everyone will be o

Narendrabhai won’t have anything with him Please make arrangements for him ”

At that time, I believe Narendrabhai was serving as the General Secretary of the Bharatiya Janata Party Making my way through the crowd, I reached him, and requested a devotee to give Narendrabhai some change, and said, “Swami has asked me to do this Perhaps you don’t have money in your pocket, so ”

Holding the change in his palm, he grew emotional: “For the spiritual head of such a large organisation to notice me from the stage and make such an arrangement is truly unimaginable ” O n e y e a r a f t e r t h i s i n c i d e n t , Narendrabhai became the Chief Minister of Gujarat In this way, by the age of seventyfive, he had also completed twenty-five

Burj Khalifa illuminates in Indian tricolour to mark PM Modi’s 75th birthday

Minister

The iconic Dubai skyscraper featured multiple images of Prime Minister Modi

“Service is the Resolve

The vibrant display capti-

years in active politics

Commitment to education and values

In 2006, he visited Raysan village near Gandhinagar to inaugurate the newly constructed BAPS Swaminarayan Vidyamandir complex In fact, it had been his own suggestion to create a comprehensive educational complex that would ensure the allround development of students

Following the inauguration ceremony, we planned a visit to the nursery building w i t h i n t h e c o m p l e x I n t h e c a r w e r e

Pramukh Swami, Modi Saheb, myself and Ishwarcharandas Swami As the car stopped at the building’s entrance and the driver stepped out, in a quiet, private moment, M o d i S a h e b g e n t l y t o u c h e d P r a m u k h

Swami’s hand and said, “With all these everyday problems, false accusations and reading the news about them, sometimes I feel like leaving everything and taking up renunciation ”

At that time Swamishri gave a very beautiful reply He said: “Never get tired of doing good work Never lose in doing good work Never stop doing good work ”

“Swamiji, I will remember these words till my last breath ” Even after becoming Prime Minister, Narendrabhai recalls this incident and says: “Those words have become a principle for me ” Leadership recognised globally

Akshardham, accompanied by Modiji As we walked, we reached the main temple, where both distinguished leaders had darshan of Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s murti On this occasion, I shared the story of the groundbreaking ceremony with Malcolm Turnbull and added: “Right now, we are standing on the very foundation of this magnificent cul-

tural complex When the foundation was laid, Mr Modi did not even have a single rupee to his name, which speaks volumes about his integrity Today, he stands here as the Prime Minister of India ”

Turnbull is an extremely wealthy politician, with assets in the billions What I wanted to highlight was that here stood side by side one of the richest leaders in the world and another who owns no property or wealth Malcolm Turnbull remarked, “Even though M r M o d i h

o n e aspires to be like him, because he has earned the love and trust of millions ”

Yes, Narendrabhai moves among the people; through tireless effort and keen intellect, he has risen to his current position He works 18–20 hours a day, personally following up on every task

Dedication in times of crisis

One incident that illustrates this comes to mind: when the Ukraine–Russia war began, I was in Abu Dhabi Around eleven o ’clock at night, I received a call from him, in India, it was half-past twelve Modi Saheb said, “We are currently holding a meeting with central ministers and officials ” On the phone, he humbly requested me, “For the students trapped in the war, set up a relief camp where both our students and those from other countries can find shelter ”

By six o ’clock in the morning, with the b

Rzeszów village near the Poland border

Indian students but also for Pakistani, Sri Lankan and other international students, ensuring safe accommodation, meals and a secure return Just imagine: at half-past twelve at night, Modi Saheb was awake for the students, leading meetings, never tiring in his dedication to service

If someone were to ask me to introduce the statesman and the person Narendra Modi in a few words, it would be like this: a world leader who inspires the world, whom other leaders aspire to emulate; a leader whose every heartbeat resonates for global harmony; a leader making India great by helping the world become greater; a person whose singular focus is the nation

Narendra Modi is a true friend with shoulders of steel, a head of silver and a heart of gold A man who never loses, never tires and never shies from the truth A visionary who grasps new ideas instantly, analyses them swiftly and puts them into action His cultural roots are profound and so too is his love for the nation and his faith in God

(Source: Chitralekha)

Bollywood stars shower PM Modi with birthday wishes C

Dubai’s Burj Khalifa lit up in the Indian tricolour and displaying photographs of Modi

s , who captured the landmark illuminated in honour of Modi, born on September 17, 1950, in Vadnagar, Gujarat The celebration also underscored the strengthening ties between India and the UAE, reflecting mutual respect and collaboration

Earlier, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan extended his birthday wishes to Prime Minister Modi in a post on X, saying: “Sincere congratulations to Narendra

Modi on your birthday I wish you continued good health and happiness, and ongoing success in advancing India’s progress and the prosperity of its people

Prime Minister Modi poured in from world leaders, including

Putin, Israeli Prime Minister

President Donald Trump, and U

Mohamed bin Zayed European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni were also among those who sent their wishes (refer to page 15)

PM Modi expressed his gratitude for the outpouring of warm wishes from leaders and citizens worldwide, saying they deeply moved him and inspired him to continue working tirelessly for India’s development and the welfare of its people

Several Bollywoo d actors and notable p ersonalities extend ed birthd ay w ish es to Prime Minister Narendra Mo di on his 75th, laud ing his leadership and dedication

A c t o r A k s h a y K u m a r p o s t e d o n X :

“Heartfelt birthday wishes on your 75th, @narendramodi ji May you be blessed with long life and good health and continue to take India to new heights Happy Birthday, Captain ” Superstar Shah Rukh Khan called PM Modi’s rise from “ a small city to the global stage” deeply inspiring In a video on X, he said: “Your discipline, hard work, and dedication to the country are remarkable At 75, your energy surpasses even the young I pray you remain healthy, strong, and happy ” Actor Aamir Khan also shared a video message, wishing him a long and healthy life: “Your contributions to India’s development will always be rememaaaaaaaabered May God give you strength to continue leading the nation forward ” Veteran actor Anupam Kher hailed PM Modi as a “role model for all ages, ” recalling their first meeting during his Gujarat tenure

On Instagram, he wrote: “You have given us many reasons to feel proud of India We are fortunate to have a Prime Minister like you ” Riteish Deshmukh shared a picture of the PM, saying: “May God bless you with great health and long life, sir ” Paresh Rawal posted: “I pray to God to grant a long and healthy life to our beloved Honourable Prime Minister ” Sonu Sood added: “History remembers those who reshape the future May your journey remain as fearless as your vision ” Suniel Shetty praised the PM’s “tireless service and unwavering commitment,” while Kangana Ranaut called him “the true son of Maa Bharti and the country’s most popular leader ” PM

HH Mahant Swami Maharaj and the Prime Minister performed the arti of the murtis

HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj giving blessings to Modi

Narendra Modi with actor Akshay Kumar

NEW INDIA’S STARTUP REVOLUTION

How India became the world’s third largest startup ecosystem under Narendra Modi’s leadership

India today is no longer seen as just an outsourcing hub or a back-office destination. Over the past decade, it

positioning itself as the world’s thirdlargest startup ecosystem, behind only the United States and China

transformation are Prime Minister

initiatives, Startup India and Make in India, which have reshaped the country’s economic landscape and given young innovators the tools to compete on the global stage

startups are now competing with global leaders The spirit behind Startup India and Make in India goes beyond policy, it symbolizes a f

dream big, innovate fearlessly, and turn ideas into impact

Startup India: Empowering risk-takers

L a u n c h e d i n J a n u a r y 2 0 1 6 , Startup India was designed to cut

bureaucracy, simplify compliance, and introduce tax incentives to encourage entrepreneurship The results have been remarkable

• As of January 15, 2024, 1 59 lakh startups have been officially recognised by the Department for P r o m o

Internal Trade (DPIIT)

• India now counts over 120 unicorns (startups valued at over $1 billion), contributing significantly to its $3 7 trillion economy

• Between 2016 and October 2024, recognised startups created 16 6 lakh direct jobs, cementing

their role as one of the largest sources of new employment in the country

pipeline by expanding incubation facilities, launching government-

introducing innovation challenges to encourage students and firsttime entrepreneurs

personally championed the cause,

My Journey with Yoga, Innovation, and Prime Minister Modi’s Vision

By Muralidhar Somisetty, Founder & CEO, YogiFi

Nati ons in 2014 that June 21 be re cogn ize d a s the Inte rnati onal D ay of Yoga, li ke ma ny Yoga

P racti tione rs, I felt an i mmen se s en se of pri de Withi n jus t three months , 177 n ations supported t h e r e s o l u t i o n - on e of t h e

f aste st and mos t w ide ly b ack ed i n UN his tor y I t w as a powerful remin der of how Ind ia s a nci ent w isd om sti ll hold s re levan ce in the modern times

Every year since, I watched with joy as millions of people across continents roll out their mats on June 21 to celebrate yoga a massive mindfulness movement began across the globe - from Times Square in New York to the iconic square on the Strand in London Under PM's leadership, yoga evolved from ancient practice into a universal language of health and harmony

b l u r r i n g c u l t u r a l b o u n d a r i e s a n d positioning India's soft power at its best as "Vishwa Guru"

As someone who recovered from a severe chronic lifestyle disease through y o g a , I t u r n

t r a n s f o r m a t i o

startup and creating YogiFi, world's first A l - p o w e

ancient wisdom with modern technology

With YogiFi, my vision has been to o

anywhere/anytime-correcting postures in r e a l t i m

y consistent with their practice

Our mission has been to amplify the accessibility of yoga while staying true to its authenticity while making the practice inclusive for every-body, whether you are a beginner at home or a busy professional, or a senior focusing on mobility

As I see growing community on our app leaderboard, people showing up on their Yogifi mats, either to improve their own health or inspire others to transform, has been one of the most fulfilling parts of

my entrepreneurial journey

But this path would not have b

h e supportive ecosystem shaped by P r i m e M i n

' s initiatives such as Startup India a

Startup India was launched, it

would be encouraged, not burdened by bureaucracy The access to seed funding, tax incentives, mentorship, and simplified processes gave me the confidence to dream bigger

Equally transformative was the Make in India initiative We were determined to build our smart yoga mats in India, not just

mattered to us that something born out of India's cultural heritage should also be manufactured here Thanks to the push for

YogiFi could design and produce advanced hardware domestically, proudly carrying the "Made in India, for the World" identity

Looking back, I realize that YogiFi is not just a product or platform-it represents

innovation can come together to shape the future of evidence backed wellness Prime Minister Modi's global advocacy for yoga

government's startup-friendly policies laid strong foundation for entrepreneurs like me to dream big and take risks to position India as the world leader in health-tech innovation

With global wellness economy worth $4 trillion, India has a great potential to turn yoga and ayurveda into mainstream What excites me personally is the deeper purpose, that we can improve lives, reduce stress, fitter future citizens and create healthier communities worldwide

Inspired by Modiji's vision of "Viksit Bharat", in my role as an entrepreneur, I am committed to contribute to nation's economic growth, not as job seeker, but as a job creator

youngsters become risk-takers I

startups

Make in India: Building strength at home

India, the Make in India campaign has focused on transforming the c o u n t r y i n

manufacturing hub By targeting s

electronics, defence, automobiles,

strengthened local supply chains, created jobs, and boosted exports

The impact is visible:

• India recorded $71 billion in FDI inflows in FY 2023-24, one of the highest globally

• The country’s manufacturing sector now contributes 17 5% to GDP, with a target to reach 25% in the coming decade

• India has steadily climbed the W o r l d B a n k ’ s E a s e o f D o i n g

Business rankings, moving from 142nd in 2014 to 63rd in 2019, before the index was discontinued Global confidence in Indian innovation

The startup boom is not just

changing mindsets From fintech platforms revolutionising digital

and quantum computing, Indian startups are now attracting global investors and recognition Venture capital inflows crossed $25 billion

funding slowdown

Muralidhar Somisetty, Founder & CEO, YogiFi, said, “Prime Minister Modi’s global advocacy for yoga created the inspiration, and his

policies laid strong foundation for entrepreneurs like me

innovation ” Nilay Patel, founder of EasyPay said, “In the

of lending, the

A New Dawn for Fintech: How Easy Pay Thrives on the Back of Modi’s Digital Vision

Nilay Patel, Founder of Easy Pay

The ris e of India's fintech s ector is a rem arkabl e s tory, and c om panies like

f oref ront of this tr ansf orm ation

This growth is not accidental but is a direct result of the visionary

Nilay Patel

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government H

building a robust digital public infrastructure and fostering an environment of innovation has created a powerful tailwind for fintech to flourish

The Foundation: The JAM Trinity and UPI Revolution

At the heart of this digital revolution is the Jan Dhan-Aadhaar-Mobile (JAM) trinity

This initiative, launched under the Modi g o v e r n m e n t , a i m e d t o b r i n g f i n a n c i a l s e r v i c e s t o e v e r y c o r n e r o f I n d i a B y providing a unique digital identity (Aadhaar), a basic bank account (Jan Dhan Yojana), and u b i q u i t o u s m o b i l e c o n n e c t i v i t y , t h e government created a vast, formal financial ecosystem This was a monumental shift t

unbanked citizens into the formal economy, creating an enormous potential customer base for companies like Easy Pay The Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system, powered by this trinity, further ingrained the use of digital channels for financial transactions, establishing trust and familiarity Building on this foundation, the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) became the gamec h a n g e r L a u n c h e d i n 2 0 1 6 , U P I h a s completely revolutionized payments in India, m a k i n g

payment system by volume Its open and interoperable architecture allows for seamless, instant, and secure transactions For Easy Pay, which provides payments processing services, UPI became a powerful tool It enabled the company to build a scalable and cost-effective platform for digital payments, appealing to both businesses and consumers The sheer scale of UPI s adoption processing over 18 billion transactions a month in late 2024 is a t e

creating a digital-first economy and

operational environment for Easy Pay New Frontiers: ONDC and Digital Lending T

extends beyond payments into new d

a n d lending The Open Network for D i g i t a l C o m m e r

government-backed initiative, aims to democratize the e-commerce sector by creating an open and interoperable network ONDC allows buyers and sellers to transact without being restricted to a single platform For Easy Pay, this represents a significant opportunity The company, as a technology service provider or as both Buyer \ Seller app, can help small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) onboard onto the ONDC network, o

and logistics support This not only expands Easy Pay's business into the burgeoning e-commerce space but also aligns with the government's goal of empowering small businesses and local retailers In the realm of lending, the government's push for Digital Lending and the creation of networks like the ONDC – Financial Services have been equally impactful The focus on a transparent and efficient credit ecosystem has allowed fintechs to innovate and serve a new class of borrowers Easy Pay can leverage this

through Account Aggregator Easy Pay facilitates the lenders to make more informed lending decisions and provide collateral-free loans This initiative not only helps Easy Pay grow its digital lending vertical but also contributes to the broader objective of

inclusion for a segment of

In conclusion, Narendra Modi’s

digitally empowered India For a company like Easy Pay, this has translated into a perfect storm of opportunity, driven by a growing customer base, a robust digital infrastructure,

Muralidhar Somisetty

Celebrating 75 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi: A personal reflection

By Dr Param Shah, CEO – Government Relations & Strategic Communications, Arvind Ltd., India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi

celebrated his 75th birthday last week It is a moment to reflect on his extraordinary journey of leadership and the policies that have reshaped both Gujarat and India over the last two decades. Having engaged with his government as a professional, mentored startups in the ecosystem he nurtured, witnessed Gujarat’s rise as a resident, and observed India’s growing global stature, I can say with conviction that his vision has been transformative

My professional engagement w

Minister of Gujarat His ability to combine policy clarity with on-ground execution stood out

The V ibrant G

its

global investment destination,

putting Gujarat firmly on the world map

Key reforms during this time

i l e laying the foundation for longterm growth One of his boldest

i d e a s w a s GIF T C i ty ( G u j a r a t International Finance Tec-City), now India’s first International Financial Services Centre Today it anchors India’s ambition to b

innovation

What began in Gujarat has now scaled to the national stage Industrial corridors, renewable

e n e r g y p a r k s , a n d l a r g e - s c a l e i n f r a s t r u c t u r e p r o j e c t s f i n d e c h o e s i n i n

C o r r i d o r , P L I s c h e m e s , a n d India’s new push to manufacture semiconductors The continuity of vision is unmistakable

A t t h e n a t i o n

l l e v e l , sweeping reforms such as the G S T , t h e I ns o lv e nc y an d Bankru ptcy Co de, and the P M G at iS h a kt i M as te r P l an h a v e strengthened India’s economic foundations Flagship initiatives

like Make in India and Dig ital Ind ia have carried forward the m o m e n t u m h e

demonstrated in Gujarat I n d i a

inseparable from Prime Minister M o d i ’ s v i s i o n T h e l a u n c h o f Startup India in 2016 created

incentives, and provided funding

healthtech, and deeptech

Initiatives like Ind ia Stac k and the global success of UPI have democratised technology

mentor to startups, I have seen

backbone allows entrepreneurs to dream big, even in smaller cities Support structures such as the Fund of Funds for Startups and government-led incubators h

innovation Unsurprisingly, this ecosystem has attracted global

wealth funds, reinforcing India’s position as a vibrant market for innovation

On a personal level, I have witnessed the transformation of Gujarat over three decades of having moved there in the ‘ 90s

projects that provided water to villages and cities, to a network of modern highways and ports spurred economic activity Early investments in renewable energy

nationwide Gujarat’s rise as the “growth engine of India” was not just a slogan; it was something residents like me lived every day

In addition to these domestic

witnessed the changing global

professional engagements have taken me across continents, and since living in the UK from 2017,

I have seen first-hand how the world increasingly views India

academics abroad, I have sensed a new confidence in engaging with India, not just as a large market but as a country shaping the global agenda That shift in perception is directly linked to the Prime Minister’s vision of India as a “Vishwaguru”, a nation

capabilities

Looking back at the last two decades, a common thread runs

Narendra Modi’s leadership, t he be li

wo rld-class stand ards, and the will to make it hap pen From powering rural homes in Gujarat to enabling digital payments for

India’s global stature to inspiring

entrepreneurs, his policies have

empowerment, enterprise, and pride

On his 75th birthday, I feel fortunate to have experienced this journey as a professional engaging with his government,

thrive under his initiatives, as an

Gujarat’s extraordinary rise, and a

India’s enhanced stature in the

touched every aspect of my life, and I remain confident that his vision will continue to inspire future generations

Spiritual discipline at the heart of Modi’s leadership

Beyond his global statesmanship, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s spirituality sets him apart, shaping both his life and leadership Rooted in Indian traditions, his spiritual outlook influences his personal life and public persona, often reflected in his disciplined lifestyle, meditative practices, and emphasis on values such as selfless service, ethics, and national harmony.

On March 16, 2025, in a pod-

c a s t w i t h L e x F r i d m

n , P r i m e Minister Narendra Modi revealed a lesser-known side of himself: his deep spiritual commitment He s h a r e d a p i v o t a l c h i l d h o o d moment when he skipped a family wedding to serve a Swamiji and described how encounters with saints and meditation shaped his leadership, fostering calmness and dedication amid immense responsibilities

W h e n F r i d m a n a s k e d i f h e

could imagine a life of Sannyasa as a monk, Modi responded, “People may see a difference between a saint and a leader, but to me, there is none The attire and lifestyle may change, the words I speak may shift, but the core of my being remains the same, carrying out every duty with focus, calm, and dedication ” The PM also reflected on his t i m e e m b r a c i n g s i l e n c e i n t h e Himalayas and meeting remark-

Pravin K Laheri (IAS)

It is my good fortune to have had the opportunity to work with Narendra Modi over many years As he celebrates his 75th birthday on 17 September 2025, I extend my heartfelt wishes for his health and happiness

I pray that God grants him the strength and energy to continue serving our great motherland with dedication While Narendra Modi does not share the name of Swami Vivekananda, he has shaped his life and leadership in alignment with Swamiji’s ideals As we know, Swami Vivekananda’s vision was to make the nation and its people strong, self-reliant, and compassionate, while bringing happiness and upliftment to the underprivileged

Swami Vivekananda said: “Three things are necessary to make every man great, every nation great: 1 Conviction of the powers of goodness 2 Absence of jealousy and suspicion 3 Helping all who are trying to be and do good ” Narendra Modi has deeply internalised Swami Vivekananda’s teachings and continues to follow the path laid out by him with dedication The qualities admired in Modi today are firmly rooted in the principles and ideals of Swami Vivekananda Swamiji’s call was: “Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached ” This maxim continues to resonate in the minds of today’s youth, and it is clearly reflected in Modi’s style of work

Through his leadership, Narendra Modi has honoured India’s ancient heritage while embracing modern scientific approaches, a contribution that will surely be remembered in history He has inspired hope, courage, and direction among the nation’s youth, energising their enthusiasm I firmly believe that by 2047, the centenary of India’s independence, today’s youth will realise Modi’s vision of a developed India

Life is full of challenges, and setbacks are inevitable, but Modi overcomes

achievements are vast, yet I will humbly attempt to highlight the key aspects of his extraordinary personality

Positive approach

Narendra Modi’s attitude has always been constructive He views every situation with optimism and composure In such moments, we are reminded of Swami Vivekananda’s words: “All power is within you; you can do anything and everything Believe in that, do not believe that you are weak; do not believe that you are half-crazy lunatics, as most of us do nowadays You can do anything and everything, without even the guidance of anyone Stand up and express the divinity within you ” Ambition

There is a saying that it is possible to fail in achieving high goals, but aiming low is a crime Swami Vivekananda, rejecting conventional beliefs about religion, salvation, and spirituality, called upon us: “Your country requires heroes; be heroes; your duty is to go on working, and then everything will follow of itself ” Starting from humble beginnings in Vadnagar, Narendra Modi resolved to reach the highest positions and, through perseverance and determination, achieved remarkable success

Grounded and realistic

Narendra Modi approaches every task with confidence and clarity He follows a path of his own choosing, one that many avoid due to its risks, yet, despite his distinctive ideas and bold actions, he remains grounded and humble Swami Vivekananda said: The greatest religion is to be true to your own nature and have self-confidence in yourself”, Modi has followed this advice to the letter

Strong determination

Modi is renowned for his swift, decisive actions and unwavering determination, tackling even the most challenging tasks with confidence and resolve As Swami Vivekananda said: “There is only difference between dream and aim Dream requires effortless sleep and aim requires sleepless efforts Sleep for dreams and wake for aims ”

Energy

Narendra Modi is known for his remarkable and relentless ability to work To keep himself fit and focused, he follows yoga and a disciplined life, while also putting Swami Vivekananda’s words into practice: “Don’t look back – forward, infinite energy, infinite enthusiasm, infinite daring and infinite patience- then alone can great deeds be accomplished”

Memory

able individuals, including ascetics who had renounced everything “I met many extraordinary people, yet my mind remained restless, driven by curiosity and a desire to learn The mountains, ice, and t

shaped me, strengthened me from within, and helped me discover my inner power, ” Modi said He also recounted dedicating himself to helping villagers during a natural calamity in the region I n 2 0 2 4 , f o l l o w i n g

L o k Sabha elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi undertook a 45hour meditation (‘dyan’) at the Vivekananda Rock Memorial in K a n y a

p o t where Swami Vivekananda meditated in 1892 to envision India’s f u t u r e A h e a d o f t h e 2 0 1 9 L o k Sabha elections, Modi had undertaken a similar spiritual retreat in Uttarakhand, meditating in a holy cave near Kedarnath

Modi possesses an extraordinary memory, able to recall people, past events, and conversations with remarkable accuracy As it is said, memory is the eternal treasure of the heart, and Modi has truly made this treasure meaningful While a picture may be worth a thousand words, nothing is as priceless as a keen and vivid memory

Innovative

Narendra Modi’s ability to think in entirely new ways is one of his greatest strengths This remarkable approach has made him a unique leader

distinguishes a leader from a follower ”

Communication

important than ever, and Narendra Modi has consistently demonstrated an exceptional ability to engage with people Mastering communication requires patience, building meaningful connections, and conveying ideas clearly through both words and actions, an achievement Modi has exemplified

His personality has become a source of inspiration for many, and we pray that God grants him a long and healthy life so he may continue his dedicated service to India and its people

(P K Laheri, former Chief Secretary of Gujarat, served as Principal Secretary to five state chief ministers, including Narendra Modi He also worked with the Government of India as Executive Director of the National Institute of Fashion Technology After retiring, he became Chairman and Managing Director of Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited and is a trustee of the Somnath Temple Trust )

Dr Param Shah

Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Vivekananda Rock Memorial in Kanyakumari in the year 2024

An era of excellence: Celebrating Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 75th birthday

M i n i s t e r N a r e n d r a

Modi’s 75th birthday, we must reflect not only on his remarkable journey

b u t o n t h e

t r a n s f o r m a t i v e r o l e h e

has played in solidifying India’s place on the global stage Having been a Member of Parliament in the United Kingdom for the past 16 years, I have witnessed firsthand the progression of the British-India relationship and its flourishment over the past decade

India today is one of the most dynamic economies and Prime Minister Modi has overseen a period of bold reform, digital innovation and producing a forwardlooking nation For the Indian diaspora within the United Kingdom, the transformation displays a great sense of pride amongst us

Throughout the past decade, everything I have done is dedicated to a life of public service and I have been delighted to play a pivotal role in facilitating BritishIndian relations In November 2013 and later again in November 2015, I joined the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, The Rt Hon Lord Cameron on trips to India These prime ministerial visits were part of a long-term Conservative Party plan to engage with India and I am proud to say they acted as the catalysts for the relationship today

Economically, the last decade has seen extraordinary progress In 2013 The Rt Hon Lord Cameron and I laid down the foundations, facilitating the largest trade delegation Britain has ever sent to another country Bridging India’s focus on higher education and finance with Britain’s expertise meant for the first time, the two were able to combine

With Modi’s merit the UK remains one of the greatest investors in India and now with the Free Trade Agreement established, this will only exacerbate The

increased volume of jobs all are an exceptional landmark

incredible emphasis by Modi on ensuring that our countries not only work together as historical partners but as deep allies, in our exponentially growing world

Beyond trade, collaboration through Modi’s great visions have expanded The exceptional ability for Prime Minister Modi to combine his entrepreneurial spirit with his diplomatic vision Has led to a remarkable shift in history

For those of us in Britain, our shared values of hard work, integration, family life and resilience all reside with the same values leaders such as Modi and citizens in India hold, making the relationship function organically

As we look forward to the future, we see a fusion of bonds between Britain and India A partnership of individuals with equal values and shared history The forthcoming era of global dynamics On Prime Minister

M o d i ’ s D i a m o n d J u b i l e e B i r t h d a y , w e c e

mindset, powerful vision, and success

Celebrating Narendra Modi and the UK–India bond

Councillor Ameet Jogia MBE

Last week we marked the 75th birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi a statesman whose leadership has reshaped India’s trajectory and strengthened its bonds with nations across the globe, not least the United Kingdom

Since taking office in 2014, Modi

ambitious economic reforms and digital innovation to global diplomacy, he has worked tirelessly to empower India’s 1 4 billion citizens and ensure the country takes its rightful place on the world stage Representing the world’s largest democracy, Modi has become a respected voice on issues ranging from economic growth to climate action, and a symbol of India’s growing influence in global affairs

The esteem in which Modi is held internationally is reflected in the outpouring of warm birthday wishes from global leaders Former US President Donald Trump personally called to congratulate him, referring to Modi as “ my

“visionary leadership” and spoke of his

Comprehensive Strategic Partnership

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called Modi “ an inspiration” and wished him “health and energy to continue leading India ” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sent his personal greetings, saying he looks forward to “ many more years of strong India-Israel partnership ”

For the United Kingdom, the connection with India has never been more significant Bound by shared democratic values and a belief in enterprise, the UK–India partnership has gone from strength to strength under Modi’s leade

, education, security cooperation, or cultural exchange, the relationship has flourished supported by the 1 5 million-strong British Indian community, often described as the “living bridge” between our two nations Modi has also had a direct impact on the Conservative Party itself In 2012, with his support, Smriti Irani t

Conservative Friends of India with the then Prime Minister David Cameron and Lord Dolar Popat CF India has since grown to become the largest affiliated group within the Conservative Party This reflects a deeper ideological alignment between the BJP and the Conservatives: a shared belief in aspira-

empowerment

The partnership between the UK and India is not simply a matter of diplomacy it is personal, people-led, and built on trust Today, there is a renewed sense of ambition for what this special relationship can achieve, from a comprehensive free trade agreement to collaboration in science, technology, and green energy

birthday, we look ahead with optimism Modi’s vision of a strong and confident India aligns with Britain’s own global outlook Together, our nations have much more to do not only for our mutual prosperity but for tackling the great challenges of our age

On this 75th birthday, we extend our warmest wishes to Prime Minister Modi May his leadership continue to inspire, may the friendship between our countries deepen, and may this unique partnership thrive for generations to come

King Charles gifts Kadamb tree to PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 75th birthday was celebrated not only across India but also globally, with leaders and citizens from around the world extending their greetings. In the UK, the Indian diaspora joined in the celebrations, while political leaders and prominent figures also conveyed their wishes, highlighting Modi’s influence and recognition on the international stage

King Charles III gifted a K

Minister Narendra Modi on his 75th birthday, in a gesture reflecting shared envi-

British High Commission in

New Delhi, in a social media

inspired by Modi’s “Ek Ped M

Norfolk and presented him with a ‘Sonoma’ tree sapling under the same “Ek Ped Maa K e N a a m ” i n i t i a t i v e T h e B r i t i s h H i g h C o m m i s s i o n highlighted that collaboration on climate and clean energy forms a key pillar of the Commonwealth and the

outlined in Vision 2035 by M o d i a n

U K P r i m e Minister Rishi Sunak

Narendra Modi on his birthday,” the statement read T

Minister Modi’s visit to the UK in July, when he met K i n g C h a r

tion “His Majesty the King has been graciously pleased to send a Kadamb tree to I

Leaders credit Modi for strengthening India’s global stature

As PM Narendra Modi turned 75, government and party leaders lauded his transformative impact on governance since 2014 and celebrated his journey from humble beginnings and early years as an RSS w o r k e r t o t h e c o u n t r y ’ s h i g h e

office, a story reflecting the essence of democracy as government of, by, and for the people

To mark the occasion, the BJP

welfare initiatives

P r e s i d e n t D r o u p a d i M u r m u praised PM Modi for embodying “ P a r i s h

pinnacle of hard work), saying he has fostered a culture of achieving great goals and earned global recog-

Radhakrishnan noted that under his leadership, India is steadily making its mark on the world stage Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted Modi’s visionary leadership, dedication, and focus on public welfare, while Home Minister Amit Shah recalled his five decades of relentless service Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge and LS Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi also wished him good health Biju Janata Dal chief Naveen P

Akhilesh Yadav, and BSP leader Mayawati conveyed their birthday wishes to PM Modi Leaders from the BJP-led NDA also shared messages on X TDP chief and Andhra

During the visit, Modi noted that discussions with the King covered environmental sustainability, Yoga and Ayurveda, as well as the

d e Agreement (CETA) “We dis-

India-UK relations, includ-

2035, along with education, health and wellness, particu-

which

were also key topics,” Modi said The sapling gifted to the King is set to be planted at Sandringham Estate during the

Lord Dolar Popat

Former Prime Minister David Cameron welcomes Indian Prime Minister Modi to Downing Street, 2015 Ameet Jogia

Kadamb tree gifted by King Charles Prime Minister

Nitish

Lord Dolar Popat meeting Narendra Modi

Nationwide women’s health drive begins as Modi Turns 75

I ndi a ’ s largest health-outreach programme for women and children, urging women to take full advantage of the free diagnostics and treatment it offers on his 75th birthday

Between September 17 and October 2, more than one million health camps will be

Arogya Mandirs to tertiary hospitals, to screen women for anaemia, hypertension,

conditions Several private hospitals have also pledged to host similar camps to widen access to early detection and care

At the launch event in Dhar, Madhya

, P

i m e Minister Modi urged women to attend the

n “Tests and medicines are free The state treasury is not more important than your health,” he said, stressing that women are the foundation of national development “If a mother is healthy, the whole family stays h e a l t h y T h

mothers and sisters for a healthier future,” he added Highlighting the prevalence of sickle cell anaemia in tribal areas, Prime Minister Modi urged tribal women to use the free health camps, assuring that all tests and medicines are free “No mother or daughter

a walkthrough

should be left behind Those needing further

protective cover, ” he said

He also launched the Adi Karmyogi Abhiyan, a programme of service activities

education, nutrition, and skill development

Guiding India towards greater heights

Gunvant Shah

Ga ndhi ji off ere d a n ori ginal de finit ion of the word ‘ a vat ar ’ : a disti ngu ished being who takes hu ma n form T his d efi niti on aptly fit s Na rendra bh ai His contri buti ons a nd the rol e he ha s play ed in uplif ting the nati on wi ll be reme mbe red in h istory Th e p otentia l wi thi n h im i s i mmense For i nd ivi dua ls o f hi s cal iber, hol ding of fi ce for an extended per iod a nd d ignif yi ng i t i s no ordi na ry fe at, it ref lects h is unwave ring de dicat ion a nd co mmi tment to hi s work

Since Narendrabhai became Prime Minister, his steadfastness has been nothing short of remarkable, a testament to his courage and determination Where others might falter or grow weary, he remains unwavering We speak occasionally, sometimes at length over the phone Out of affection, he would call me on Guru Purnima to convey his respect For the past two years, however, he has been unable to do so, which I fully understand given the immense demands on his time Every minute of his life is devoted not to himself, but to the nation, precious and wholly committed to its service

Narendrabhai’s elder brother, Sombhai, once visited Baroda with Kishor Makwana to meet me by appointment As I saw him off, I asked, “Sombhai, have you ever been to your brother’s home in Delhi?” He smiled and replied, “I am Narendra Modi’s brother, not the Prime Minister’s brother If I went to Delhi and stayed at his home, he would feel obliged to spare at least half an hour for me each day I don’t want to take even that much of his time away from the nation, so I choose not to go ”

A Prime Minister like Narendrabhai may come again, but an elder brother of such noble character is rare Sombhai has never sought any personal gain from his younger brother’s position, he owns no businesses, petrol pumps, or other favours Remaining entirely detached, he quietly contributes to the BJP’s work, never attempting to leverage Narendrabhai’s influence for his own benefit

In many families, when a relative holds the office of Prime Minister, they often exploit that position for personal gain The Congress party’s failure to recognise this

especially in rural areas The new initiative, led by the health and women

community level

development

PM Modi birthday celebrations across the country

India celebrated Prim e M inister Narend ra M odi’s 7 5th birthd ay with a series of civ ic, cultural, and public service ev ents across the c o u nt ry, i nc lu d i n g c yc l e ral li es , bl o o d d onatio n drives, holy ritu als, and cleanliness initiativ es

In Delhi, the Kartavya Path Sewa Sankalp Walk was organised with participation from Deputy Speaker Mohan Singh Bisht, Chief

Manjinder Singh Sirsa, and Kapil Mishra At

Palika Park, Sulabh International unveiled a 75-kg jumbo laddoo in the PM’s honour

I n V a r a n a s i , y o u n g a s c e t i c

Dashashwamedh Ghat blew the conch shell to pray for the PM’s well-being Rajasthan

saw Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla sweep an area in Kota and Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal lead a cycle rally in Bikaner

Prayagraj, priests performed rituals at Alopi Devi Temple, offering prayers for the PM

Marathon in Kolkata and Siliguri as part of the Seva Parv campaign, aiming to promote a drug-free India The Kolkata marathon ran from Swami Vivekananda’s house in Simla to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose’s statue at Shyambazar, with BJP leaders Dr Sukanta M a j u m d a r , S h a m i k B h a t t a c h a r y a , a n d

Indranil Khan in attendance The birthday celebrations, launched on 17th September, will continue until 2nd October

A decade of service over celebration

A s P ri m e M i ni s t e r

N arendra Modi turned 75, I ndi a marked the occ asion with servic e, inaugurations, and outreach programmes,

r e f le c t i ng h i s d i s t i nc t i v e a p pr oa c h to b i r th da y s , f o c us e d on w or k ra t he r than personal c elebration

O ver the years, Modi has c o m b i ne d pr i va t e r i tu al s , l i ke s e ek in g hi s m othe r ’ s b l e s s i n gs , w i t h pu b li c

s e r vi c e i n i ti a t i ve s t ha t b enefit citizens nati onwide

Since becoming Prime Minister, his birthdays have

c o n s i s t e n t l y h i g h l i g h t e d d i s c i p l i n e , p u r p o s e , a n d p u b l i c w e l f a r e H i s 6 4 t h

b i r t h d a y i n v o l v e d f a m i l y time and flood relief efforts

i n J a m m u a n d K a s h m i r , while the 65th emphasised

S w a c h h B h a r a t d r i v e s , interactions with disabled c h i l d r e n , a n d commemorations of India’s a r m e d f o r c e s L a t e r b i r t h d a y s s a w h i m inaugurate major projects such as the Sardar Sarovar Dam, the Statue of Unity, t h e N a t i o n a l T r i b a l F r e e d o m F i g h t e r s ’ M u s e u m , a n d t h e I n d i a I n t e r n a t i o n a l C o n v e n t i o n and Expo Centre

Narendrabhai’s late mother, yet he never wasted time responding to such attacks

I firmly believe that India has never had, and may never again have, a Prime Minister like Narendrabhai He has demonstrated exemplary leadership, with no hint of corruption in his name and no need for it His life stands as a model for integrity and dedication Were the nation to follow his path, India could achieve extraordinary progress and indeed, the country has already begun to rise, despite continued criticism

Those who criticise Narendrabhai, in fact, only strengthen him, for such critics command little respect His long-held vision of a Congress-free India is now nearing reality Let us salute this remarkable leader I am confident that the dedication and sacrifice he has shown will shine even more brilliantly with time

(Gunvant Shah is an essayist, educationist, columnist and philosophy writer and critic from Vadodara, Gujarat, India)

Gujarat commemorates PM Modi’s birthday with grand events G

and a cleanliness drive

Ahme dabad

i n M a d h y a P r a d e s h I n 2024, Modi inaugurated 26 l

Yojana in Odisha, launched

slums, while BJP observed Sewa Parv with nationwide

cleanliness drives

the

prioritises action and public welfare above

D u r i n g t h e C o v i d - 1 9 pandemic, Modi’s 70th and 71st birthdays focused on r e l i e f w o r k a n d p u b l i c h e a l t h , i n c l u d i n g r a t i o n d i s t r i b u t i o n , b l o o d donation camps, eye checku p s , a n d r e c o r d v a c c i n e d r i v e s S u b s e q u e n t y e a r s i n c l u d e d e n v i r o n m e n t a l i n i t i a t i v e s , s k i l l development programmes, and the release of cheetahs

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, along w i t h H

Cultural Activities Minister Mulubhai Bera, and State Cooperation Minister Jagdish Vishwakarma, witnessed the mega musical m u l t i m e d

, Bapunagar Renowned artist Sairam Dave and 150 performers brought to life the PM’s j o u r n e y

n t r i b u t i o n s t o n a t i o nbuilding

Organised by Bapunagar Seva Samiti with support from GCCI, the event was attended by MPs, MLAs, the City Mayor, S t a n d i n g C o m m i t t e e C h a i r m a n , councillors, political and social leaders, and a large audience of citizens At a Maninagar event attended by BJP MLA Amul Bhatt and C o u n c i l l o r K a r a n B h a t t , G a r b

performances were held alongside a floral map of India marked with ‘Namotsav

birthday with

Ahmedabad, calling it a “day of service

The CM also visited the Namo Amrut Maha Health Camp in Khokhra, distributing kits to people with disabilities In Surat, a 75-inch cake was cut at Lalbhai Contractor Stadium, alongside a massive poster wishing the PM well The BJP launched a fortnight-long cleanliness drive, while women-led self-help groups wrote postcards thanking the government

minister inaugurated the Swachhata

joined by Assembly Speaker Shankar Chaudhary

of the Saraswati

Modi takes

of Health Kiosks and PM Mitra Park Pavilion at Dhar, in Madhya Pradesh

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel lighting the lamp with dignitaries at the ‘Namotsav’

A group of priests performing rituals on Prime Minister Modi s birthday at Alopi Devi Temple