'People Are the Embodiment of God': PM Modi On Becoming India's Longest-Serving Elected PM

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday described it as his "supreme privilege" to serve the nation continuously after becoming India's longest-serving elected Prime Minister. Speaking at the NDA conclave in New Delhi, Modi expressed gratitude to alliance leaders and citizens while reflecting on his political journey and the significance of stable governance in the country.

NDA Leaders Gather To Mark Historic Occasion

The remarks came during a special gathering of National Democratic Alliance leaders in the national capital, where the coalition celebrated 12 years of the Modi government. The event also marked a major political milestone as Modi surpassed the record previously held by India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister thanked NDA partners for making the day memorable.

"You have all made this day truly memorable for me. I am overwhelmed and deeply grateful," the Prime Minister said.

PM Modi Recalls Years Of Political Struggles

Reflecting on his long political career, Modi said he never expected to reach such a landmark despite navigating several challenges and difficult phases throughout his journey.

"Chanting the mantra of 'Chareveti, Chareveti' (keep moving forward) and witnessing numerous ups and downs in this political journey, I had never imagined that this milestone would one day be reached," he said.

Highlighting the significance of the achievement, he added:

"I consider it my supreme privilege to have had the opportunity to serve continuously as an elected Prime Minister for the longest tenure."

'Service To Mother India Is A Spiritual Practice'

The Prime Minister also spoke about his view of public service, describing it as a sacred responsibility made possible through the blessings of the people and divine grace.

"Serving Mother India for such a long time, having the privilege of serving her, is possible only with God's special grace. And for me, the people are the embodiment of God. And that is why I have always viewed this service as a spiritual practice. This spiritual practice has never been solitary; this is a collective 'yagya', in which all of you and many other colleagues have contributed their services with a sense of duty," he said.

Modi credited colleagues, party workers and alliance partners for contributing to what he called a collective national effort.

Political Stability Key To India's Progress, Says PM

Emphasising the importance of stable governments, the Prime Minister said Indian voters had repeatedly demonstrated political maturity by supporting continuity and decisive leadership at the national level.

"It is a testament to the maturity of the people, the ultimate sovereigns, that they have given me the opportunity to serve them for such a long time. The decades preceding 2014 were marked by significant instability and turmoil, causing the country to suffer greatly. However, the people are now witnessing the performance of a stable government and appreciating its decisive capabilities. Today, I bow to the great people of this nation and express my gratitude to them. When the NDA won in 2014, I had remarked that a new hope had dawned for the common citizen of the country. It is our collective responsibility to nurture and uphold this hope," he added.

The Prime Minister's address combined gratitude, reflection and a renewed call for collective responsibility as the NDA celebrated both its 12-year journey in power and a historic chapter in India's political history.