PMINDIA

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, in his first podcast, interacted with entrepreneur and investor Nikhil Kamath about various topics today. In a candid conversation when asked about his childhood, Prime Minister shared his early life experiences, highlighting his roots in the small town of Vadnagar in Mehsana district, North Gujarat. He remarked that Vadnagar, a Gaekwad State town, was known for its commitment to education, with essential facilities like a pond, post office, and library. The Prime Minister reminisced about his school days at Gaekwad State Primary School and Bhagwatacharya Narayanacharya High School. He shared an interesting anecdote about how he once wrote to the Chinese embassy about a film on Chinese philosopher Xuanzang, who had spent significant time in Vadnagar. He also mentioned an experience from 2014 when he became the Prime Minister of India and Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed a desire to visit Gujarat and Vadnagar, citing a historical connection between Xuanzang and both their hometowns. He added that this connection highlighted the shared heritage and strong ties between the two nations.

Touching upon his student life, Shri Modi described himself as an average student who was not particularly noticed. He mentioned his teacher, Veljibhai Chaudhary, who saw great potential in him and often expressed his expectations to Modi’s father. Veljibhai noted that Modi grasped things quickly but then got lost in his own world. The Prime Minister remarked that his teachers were very affectionate towards him, but he was not interested in competition. He preferred to pass exams without much effort and was more inclined towards various activities. He emphasized that his nature was to quickly pick up new things and engage in different activities..

Prime Minister shared his unique journey, having left home at a very young age and losing contact with his family and friends. He remarked that when he became Chief Minister, he had a few desires, including reuniting with his old classmates and invited around 30-35 friends to the CM House, but felt that they saw him as the Chief Minister rather than their old friend. The Prime Minister also expressed that his wish was to publicly honor all his teachers who had contributed to his education. He organized a grand event to honor around 30-32 teachers, including his oldest teacher, Rasbihari Manihar, who was 93 years old at the time. This event was attended by the Governor and other esteemed personalities of Gujarat. Additionally, he invited his extended family to the CM House to reconnect and introduce them to each other. He also invited families who had provided him meals during his early days in the RSS. These four events were significant moments in his life, reflecting his gratitude and desire to stay connected with his roots.

The Prime Minister remarked that he did not follow any guiding philosophy and was content with passing exams without striving for higher marks. The Prime Minister mentioned his tendency to engage in various activities spontaneously, participating in competitions like drama without much preparation. He shared an anecdote about his physical training teacher, Mr. Parmar, who inspired him to regularly practice Malkhamb and wrestling. Despite his efforts, he did not become a professional athlete and eventually stopped these activities.

When asked about what can be considered as a talent to a politician in politics, Shri Modi replied that becoming a politician and becoming successful in politics were two different things. He remarked that dedication, commitment, and empathy towards people’s joys and sorrows are essential for success in politics. He highlighted the importance of being a good team player rather than a domineering leader. The Prime Minister reflected on the Indian independence movement, noting that many individuals contributed to the cause without entering politics. He emphasized that post-independence leaders emerged from the freedom struggle with a deep sense of dedication to society. Shri Modi emphasized “Good people should keep coming into politics with a mission and not ambition”. Quoting the example of Mahatma Gandhi, Shri Modi said Gandhi’s life and actions spoke volumes, inspiring the entire nation. The Prime Minister emphasized that effective communication is more important than eloquent speeches. He highlighted Gandhi’s ability to communicate powerful messages through his actions and symbols, such as the contrast of carrying a tall staff while advocating non-violence. The Prime Minister emphasised that true success in politics comes from living a life of dedication and effective communication, rather than relying solely on professional skills or eloquence.

Shri Modi reiterated the need for one lakh young individuals to join politics with a mission-driven approach rather than ambition. He remarked that while entrepreneurs focus on growth, politics requires self-sacrifice and putting the nation first. He highlighted that society accepts those who prioritize the nation and that political life is not easy. He added that life in politics was not easy. The Prime Minister shared an anecdote about Ashok Bhatt, a dedicated worker who lived a simple life despite being a minister multiple times. He added that Shri Bhatt was always available to help, even in the middle of the night, and lived a life of service without personal gains. He said that this example underscores the importance of dedication and selflessness in politics. The Prime Minister underscored that politics is not about fighting elections alone but to win the hearts of common people, for which one has to live amidst them and connect with their lives.

“My life is my biggest teacher”, said Shri Modi when asked about how life has been shaped by circumstances, referring to his challenging childhood as his “University of Adversity.” He remarked that witnessing the struggles of women in his state, who walked kilometers to fetch water, inspired his commitment to ensuring water accessibility post-independence. The Prime Minister emphasized that while he does not claim ownership of plans, he dedicates himself to realizing dreams that benefit the nation. He shared his guiding principles from his tenure as Chief Minister: working tirelessly, not seeking personal gain, and avoiding intentional wrongdoing. He acknowledged that mistakes are human but stressed his commitment to acting with good intentions. Recalling his speech as the Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Modi said that he will not shy away from hard work, he will not do anything for his personal self and he will not make mistakes with bad intentions and considered these three rules as the mantra of his life.

Talking about the importance of idealism and ideology, Prime Minister emphasized that his guiding principle has always been “Nation First.” He remarked that this ideology transcends traditional and ideological boundaries, allowing him to embrace new ideas and discard old ones if they serve the nation’s interest. He stated that his unwavering standard is “Nation First.” The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of idealism over ideology in impactful politics. He noted that while ideology is essential, idealism is crucial for meaningful political impact. He cited the freedom movement as an example, where different ideologies converged towards the common goal of independence.

Upon being asked about how young politicians must tackle the trolls and unwanted criticisms in public life, Shri Modi emphasized the need for sensitive individuals in politics who find joy in helping others. He remarked that in a democracy, one must accept accusations and counter-accusations, but if one is right and has done no wrong, there is no need to worry.

On the topic of pre-social media and post-social media politics and its impact on politicians and advice for the young politicians to use social media, the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi shared a humorous anecdote about his interactions with children, who often ask him how he feels about being on TV and receiving criticism. Recounting a story about an individual who remained unfazed by insults, emphasizing that as long as one is truthful and has a clear conscience, there is no need to worry about criticism, the Prime Minister remarked that he has adopted a similar mindset, focusing on his actions and remaining grounded in truth. Emphasizing the need for sensitivity in public life, stating that without it, one cannot genuinely serve people. He remarked that criticism and disagreements are common in every field, including politics and workplaces, and one must accept and navigate them. The Prime Minister highlighted the transformative power of social media in democracy. He noted that previously, only a few sources provided information, but now, people can verify facts easily through various channels. “Social media has become a significant tool for democracy, allowing individuals to access the truth and verify information”, said Shri Modi. He observed that today’s youth are actively verifying information on social media, particularly in fields like space exploration. He further added that the success of Chandrayaan has sparked a new spirit among the youth, who are keenly following developments like the Gaganyaan mission. “Social media is a powerful tool for the new generation”, acknowledged the Prime Minister about Social media’s usefulness. Reflecting on his early days in politics, he shared that criticism and baseless accusations were common, even before the advent of social media. However, he added that the availability of various platforms today provides a broader canvas for truth-seeking and verification. He emphasized that social media can empower democracy and the youth, making it a valuable resource for society.

Discussing the issue of anxiety, sharing that everyone, including himself, experiences it, Shri Modi remarked that managing anxiety varies from person to person, and each individual has their own style and capacity to handle it. The Prime Minister shared personal anecdotes, including the 2002 Gujarat elections and the Godhra incident, highlighting how he managed his emotions and responsibilities during challenging times. He emphasized the importance of staying above natural human tendencies and focusing on one’s mission. He advised students to approach exams as part of their routine activities, without adding unnecessary pressure. He encouraged them to treat it as a regular part of their lives.

Sharing his perspective on not overthinking worst-case scenarios, Shri Modi stated that he never planned his journey to reach his current position and has always focused on fulfilling his responsibilities well. He emphasized that he never let thoughts of success or failure dominate his mind.

Talking about learning from the failures, the Prime Minister highlighted the failure of Chandrayaan-2 launch, where he took responsibility and motivated scientists to remain hopeful. He emphasized the importance of taking risks in politics, supporting young leaders, and encouraging them to work for the nation. He remarked that giving prestige to politics and encouraging good people to join is essential for its purification. The Prime Minister urged young leaders to overcome the fear of the unknown and emphasized that the success of India’s future lies in their hands. He encouraged them to work for the country, not for personal gains, and to uphold the dignity of democracy.

When asked about the perception of politics as a “dirty place,” Shri Modi emphasised that politics is not just about elections and winning or losing, but also involves policy-making and governance, a means to bring about significant changes. Highlighting the importance of good policies and their execution in transforming situations, Shri Modi shared an example of the PM JANMAN Yojana, a scheme developed under the guidance of President Draupadi Murmu, to support the most marginalized tribal communities. He noted that while this initiative may not yield political gains, it has a profound impact on the lives of 25 lakh people across 250 locations. He emphasized that making the right decisions at the right time in politics can lead to substantial positive changes, providing a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment.

Shri Modi shared his experiences with setbacks and failures, he recounted his childhood desire to join a military school, which did not materialize due to financial constraints. He also shared his aspiration to lead a monastic life, which remained unfulfilled despite his efforts to join the Ramakrishna Mission. The Prime Minister highlighted that setbacks are a part of life and contribute significantly to personal growth. He shared an incident from his time in the RSS, where he learned from a mistake while driving, emphasizing the importance of learning from failures. He remarked that he has always lived outside his comfort zone, which has shaped his personality and approach to life. He believes that avoiding the comfort zone is essential for progress and that taking risks is crucial for achieving success. He emphasized that comfort can hinder achieving one’s end goals, and stepping out of the comfort zone is necessary for growth and progress.

Discussing his risk-taking ability and how it has evolved over time, the Prime Minister emphasized that his capacity for taking risks is immense because he has never prioritized personal gains and this fearless attitude allows him to make decisions without hesitation. He shared that he used to spend time alone in remote places to reflect and connect with himself, a practice he misses. Citing one such experience in the 1980s involving staying in the desert, where he experienced a spiritual awakening, Shri Modi said that this inspired him to establish the Rann Utsav, which has become a major tourism event, earning global recognition as the best tourist village. The Prime Minister remarked that stepping out of one’s comfort zone is essential for growth and progress, both in politics and entrepreneurship. He emphasized that taking risks and facing challenges head-on leads to greater achievements.

Touching upon the personal relations, Shri Modi shared his thoughts on the emotions tied to losing a parent. He remarked that having left home at an early age, he did not experience the traditional attachment, but during his mother’s 100th birthday, she gave him valuable advice: “Work with wisdom, live with purity.” The Prime Minister noted that his mother, despite being uneducated, imparted profound wisdom. He reflected on the missed opportunities for deeper interactions with her, expressing that her nature was always focused on encouraging him to continue his work. The Prime Minister emphasized that the loss of a parent brings a mix of emotions, but the wisdom and values imparted by them remain a lasting treasure.

Addressing the perception of politics as a “dirty place,” Shri Modi emphasised that it is the actions of politicians that can tarnish its image. He remarked that politics is still a place for idealistic individuals who want to bring about change. The Prime Minister shared an anecdote from his childhood about a local doctor who ran an independent election campaign with minimal funds, demonstrating that society recognizes and supports truth and dedication. He emphasized that patience and commitment are essential in politics, and it should not be viewed solely through the lens of elections. He highlighted the importance of engaging in community work and policy-making, which can bring about significant changes. He shared examples from his tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat, where he motivated officials to work towards earthquake rehabilitation and made impactful decisions by changing outdated rules. The Prime Minister also shared an initiative where he encouraged bureaucrats to revisit the villages where they started their careers, to reconnect with the reality of rural life and understand the impact of their work. He emphasized that his approach to governance involves motivating and guiding his team without resorting to harsh words or reprimands.

When asked about the concept of “Minimum Government, Maximum Governance,” the Prime Minister clarified it emphasizing that it does not mean reducing the number of ministers or employees, instead, it focuses on streamlining processes and reducing bureaucratic burdens. The Prime Minister highlighted that around 40,000 compliances have been eliminated to reduce the burden on citizens. He mentioned that approximately 1,500 outdated laws have been abolished, and criminal laws have been reformed. He emphasized that the goal is to simplify governance and make it more efficient, and these efforts are currently being implemented successfully.

Discussing the India Stack initiative, Shri Modi highlighted the transformative impact of India’s digital initiatives like UPI, eKYC, and Aadhaar. He remarked that these technologies have enabled direct transfers to farmers’ accounts, eliminating corruption and leakage of funds. He emphasized that UPI has become a global marvel, showcasing India’s ability to democratize technology in today’s Technology-driven century. The Prime Minister shared an anecdote from his visit to Taiwan, where he was impressed by the highly qualified leaders. He expressed his desire for Indian youth to achieve similar levels of excellence. He also recounted a conversation with a Taiwanese interpreter, who had outdated perceptions of India. The Prime Minister humorously explained that while India’s past involved snake charmers, today’s India is empowered by technology, with every child adept at using a computer mouse. He emphasized that India’s strength now lies in its technological advancements, and the government has created separate funds and commissions to support innovation. He encouraged the youth to take risks, assuring them that they will be supported even if they fail.

Discussing the improved global perception of India, the Prime Minister emphasized that it is not solely his achievement but the collective effort of all Indians. He remarked that every Indian who travels abroad serves as an ambassador of the nation, contributing to its image. He highlighted that the NITI Aayog has an objective to connect with the Indian community worldwide, leveraging their strength. He shared his experiences of extensive travel before becoming Chief Minister and how he recognized the potential of the Indian diaspora. He added that this recognition has led to a stronger global profile for India. The Prime Minister also noted that the low crime rate, high education levels, and law-abiding nature of Indians have contributed to a positive global perception. He emphasized that entrepreneurs can learn from this approach by leveraging collective strengths, maintaining a positive image, and focusing on building robust networks and relationships.

Shri Modi emphasized the importance of competition in both entrepreneurship and politics. He shared an anecdote from 2005 when the American government denied him a visa, which he viewed as an insult to an elected government and the nation. He remarked that he envisioned a future where the world would line up for Indian visas, and today, in 2025, that vision is becoming a reality. The Prime Minister highlighted the aspirations of Indian youth and the common man, sharing an example from his recent visit to Kuwait. He recounted a conversation with a laborer who dreamed of having an international airport in his district. The Prime Minister emphasized that such aspirations will drive India towards becoming a developed nation by 2047. He remarked that the spirit and ambition of India’s youth are key to the country’s progress.

Prime Minister emphasized the credibility and trust that India has gained globally by consistently advocating for peace. He remarked that India is not neutral but firmly in favor of peace, and this stance is communicated to all involved parties, including Russia, Ukraine, Iran, Palestine, and Israel. He highlighted India’s proactive efforts during crises, such as the evacuation of Indian nationals and those from neighboring countries during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Prime Minister noted that Indian Air Force personnel volunteered for the risky task of bringing back citizens, showcasing India’s commitment to its people. He further shared an incident during the Nepal earthquake, where India’s efforts to rescue and bring back citizens were appreciated by a doctor who realized the value of taxes in such life-saving missions. The Prime Minister emphasized that serving citizens globally ignites a sense of goodness and reciprocity. He also mentioned the successful request for land to build a temple in Abu Dhabi, an Islamic country, reflecting the respect and trust India commands internationally. This initiative has brought immense joy to millions of Indians. The Prime Minister reassured that India’s commitment to peace and support for its citizens worldwide remains unwavering, and the country’s credibility continues to grow on the global stage.

Sharing his thoughts on food preferences, Shri Modi stated that he is not a food enthusiast and enjoys whatever is served to him in different countries. He mentioned that during his time working with the organization, he often relied on the late Shri Arun Jaitley, who was well-versed in the best restaurants and dishes across India.

Touching upon the perception of change in his position over the years, the Prime Minister remarked that while circumstances and roles have changed, he remains the same person and does not feel any different and that the essence of who he is has not changed. The Prime Minister noted that the change in position and responsibilities has not affected his core values and principles. He emphasized that he remains grounded and unaffected by the changes in his status, maintaining the same humility and dedication to his work.

Prime Minister shared his thoughts on public speaking, emphasizing that self-experience plays a crucial role. He remarked that when people speak from their own experiences, their words, expressions, and narration naturally become impactful. He highlighted that his ability to speak Hindi fluently, despite being a Gujarati, stems from his early life experiences, such as selling tea at railway stations and interacting with people from different regions. He emphasized that staying grounded and connected to one’s roots helps in effective communication. He emphasized that the essence of good oratory lies in speaking from the heart and sharing genuine experiences.

Shri Modi highlighted the evolution of the startup ecosystem in India. Expressing confidence in the power of the youth of India, he shared an anecdote from the first startup conference, where a young woman from Kolkata described the initial perception of startups as a path to failure. The Prime Minister remarked that today, startups have gained prestige and credibility. He emphasized that the entrepreneurial spirit in India is driven by big dreams and aspirations, and the country’s youth are now more inclined to start their own ventures rather than seeking traditional jobs.

When asked about the differences in the first, second and third terms of the Government, Prime Minister shared his evolving vision for India’s development. He remarked that during his first term, both he and the people were trying to understand each other, and he was also trying to understand Delhi. In his first and second terms, he focused on comparing past achievements and setting new goals. However, in his third term, his perspective has significantly expanded. He emphasized that his dreams and ambitions have grown, with a clear vision for a developed India by 2047.

He remarked that his perspective has shifted significantly in his third term, with a stronger focus on achieving a developed India by 2047. He emphasized the importance of 100% delivery of basic amenities like toilets, electricity, and piped water to every citizen, asserting that these are rights, not privileges. The Prime Minister highlighted that true social justice and secularism lie in ensuring that every Indian benefits without discrimination. He emphasized that his driving force is “Aspirational India,” and his current focus is on the future, aiming to achieve significant milestones by 2047. He noted that his third term is markedly different from the previous ones, with a heightened sense of ambition and determination.

Prime Minister stressed on the importance of preparing the next generation of leaders and remarked that during his tenure in Gujarat, he focused on training potential leaders for the next 20 years. He highlighted that his success is measured by how well he prepares his team to handle future challenges. The Prime Minister expressed his commitment to nurturing and developing young talent to ensure a strong and capable leadership for the future.

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi emphasized the distinction between the qualifications for becoming a candidate and those for becoming a successful politician. He remarked that while the basic requirements for candidacy are minimal, becoming a successful politician requires exceptional qualities. The Prime Minister highlighted that a politician is constantly under scrutiny, and a single misstep can undermine years of hard work. He emphasized the need for 24/7 consciousness and dedication, qualities that cannot be acquired through university certificates. He stressed that true political success requires unparalleled commitment and integrity.

Concluding the interaction, Shri Modi addressed the youth and women of the nation, emphasizing the importance of leadership and participation in politics, and encouraged young women to take advantage of the 50% reservation in local governance and prepare themselves for leadership roles, with proposed 33% reservation in legislative assemblies and parliament. The Prime Minister urged the youth to not view politics negatively and to engage in public life with a mission-driven approach. He emphasized the need for leaders who are creative, solution-oriented, and dedicated to the nation’s progress. He highlighted that the youth of today will be in key positions by 2047, leading the country towards development. He clarified that his call for youth participation is not limited to any specific political party but is aimed at bringing fresh perspectives and energy into all political parties. He stressed the importance of young leaders in driving the nation’s growth and ensuring a bright future for India.