PM Modi possesses extraordinary range of knowledge on development-related issues: Hardeep Singh Puri (IANS Exclusive)
New Delhi, June 10
Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Wednesday lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he became the country's longest-serving Prime Minister, revealing that he possesses an extraordinary range of knowledge on development-related issues.
Speaking to IANS, Puri highlighted the Prime Minister's milestone of becoming India's longest-serving elected Prime Minister.
"He (PM Modi) is already among the longest-serving Prime Ministers in the country's history. Today, he has completed 4,399 days in office, and tomorrow he will surpass Jawaharlal Nehru's tenure as the longest-serving elected Prime Minister. However, what is more significant is the journey he has undertaken since 2014 and his continued efforts towards achieving the vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047," he said.
Reflecting on his experience working closely with the Prime Minister, Puri noted that he has been part of Modi's team for the past nine years and has witnessed leadership styles across India and abroad.
"In my nine years of working with him, and after observing several Prime Ministers in India as well as political leaders in other countries, I can say that I have never seen anyone quite like him. The Prime Minister possesses an extraordinary range of knowledge on development-related issues. Whether the subject is natural gas, natural farming, agriculture, or fertiliser usage, he studies it deeply, understands every aspect of it, and provides remarkably detailed guidance. His grasp of issues and ability to solve problems are unparalleled," he said.
Puri further stated that many of the flagship programmes launched by the Modi government after 2014 had their roots in initiatives first implemented during PM Modi's tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat.
"When he became Chief Minister of Gujarat, he introduced several innovative schemes. Many of the urban development programmes we see today were first conceptualised and implemented in Gujarat. When these ideas were later expanded at the national level, questions were raised about how certain schemes linked to state subjects could be implemented by the Centre. However, Prime Minister Modi believed that cooperative frameworks could be created where both the Centre and states could work together to realise the goal of a developed India," he said.
Describing PM Modi as a leader who rose from humble beginnings to hold the country's highest elected office, Puri said the Prime Minister's popularity stems from his unwavering focus on development.
"There is no doubt that he is a popular leader. He comes from a humble background and has now become the longest-serving elected Prime Minister. I believe his governance model is something the opposition should carefully study and learn from. He believes in development, and people have repeatedly voted for the BJP under his leadership in 2014, 2019, and 2024 because citizens want development and progress," he said.
The Union Minister also praised PM Modi's hands-on approach to governance and project implementation. According to Puri, the Prime Minister personally monitors major projects and regularly reviews their progress with senior officials.
"He is perhaps the first leader at this level whom I have seen personally monitoring projects in such detail. During monthly review meetings, he sits with Secretaries from different ministries and examines individual projects. His time management, command over facts, understanding of trends, and ability to monitor implementation are truly exceptional," Puri said.
He added that the Prime Minister consistently encourages consultation with industry experts whenever specialised knowledge is required.
"Whenever there is a need for expertise, whether at the state or central level, he encourages engagement with industry stakeholders. In the energy sector, many of our achievements have come through extensive consultations and collaboration with experts from the industry," Puri told IANS.
— IANS
Reader Comments
A balanced perspective is needed. While I respect the article, Mr. Puri is a minister in the government, so his praise is expected. I think what truly matters is whether these development claims translate into jobs and better living standards for common Indians. Some schemes sound great on paper, but implementation remains patchy in many states. Let's see real outcomes, not just rhetoric.
As a techie, I've seen the Digital India push firsthand. The fact that we have UPI, massive 4G expansion, and startup boom is directly from Modi ji's vision. He may not be perfect, but his grasp of complex issues—from energy to agriculture—is far better than any PM I've seen. The opposition just doesn't get it. 👏
I appreciate the detailed analysis from Puri ji, but let's not forget that development also includes freedom of press and dissent. Many critics have been silenced under this government. A developing nation needs both economic growth AND democratic accountability. That balance is missing.
Living in a tier-2 city, I've seen real change: better roads, drinking water schemes, and less corruption in government offices. Modi may be polarizing, but his focus on development is genuine. My family in villages also speak about the benefits of PM-KISAN and free LPG connections. Not everyone agrees, but ground reality matters more than elite opinions. 🙏
Interesting perspective from Minister Puri. As an outsider, I've observed India's growth since 2014—infrastructure, digital economy, and global standing have clearly risen. However,
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.