PM Modi's record tenure draws praise in US
Washington, June 10
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's milestone of becoming India's longest-serving elected Prime Minister has drawn praise from American lawmakers, business leaders and prominent members of the Indian diaspora, who credited his leadership with transforming India's global standing and strengthening ties with the United States.
US Senator John Cornyn led the tributes, congratulating Modi on completing 4,399 days in office.
"Congratulations to Prime Minister @narendramodi on becoming India's longest-serving elected Prime Minister - 4,399 days of leadership earned through the trust of 1.4 billion people across three democratic mandates," Cornyn said.
"From lifting 250 million out of poverty to making India the world's fastest-growing major economy, PM Modi's tenure has been nothing short of transformational. The US-India partnership has never been stronger," he added.
Arun Agarwal, Co-founder of the Indian American CEO Council and Chair of the Texas Economic Development Corporation, said the milestone offered an opportunity to reflect on India's transformation during the past twelve years.
"The India of 2026 is not the India of 2014," Agarwal wrote in a commentary marking the occasion. He said it was "difficult to deny that India today stands taller, speaks louder, and commands greater attention on the global stage than it did a decade ago."
India is no longer viewed merely as a country with promise but increasingly as one delivering on that promise. "For many decades, India was often described as a nation with enormous potential. Today, it is increasingly viewed as a nation realizing that potential," he said.
He said the past twelve years would likely be remembered as a period that "accelerated India's rise and altered global perceptions of what India can achieve."
Nikesh Arora, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Palo Alto Networks, also congratulated Modi on the achievement.
"Congratulating Prime Minister @narendramodi on becoming India's longest-serving elected Prime Minister - 4,399 days of leadership earned through the trust of 1.4 billion people across three democratic mandates," Arora wrote.
"From lifting 250 million out of poverty to making India the world's fastest-growing major economy, PM Modi's tenure has been nothing short of transformational. Look forward to a continued US-India partnership," he said.
American singer and India supporter Mary Millben described the occasion as "a historic, democratic milestone in the journey of a great Nation."
"Today, I offer my heartfelt congratulations to my friend Prime Minister Narendra Modi on becoming India's longest-serving Prime Minister," she said.
"Your steadfast leadership, enduring commitment to the progress, unity, and aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians, alongside your unwavering vision for a stronger Bharat has helped shape an era of transformation."
Millben also praised Modi's stewardship of relations between New Delhi and Washington.
"I honor your leadership in advancing the US India relationship. You have outlasted consecutive US Presidents, some with whom you had great relationship and others you have had great grace towards, yet you never wavered in exercising clear diplomacy that upheld the interests of the Indian people coupled with the health of our two countries," she said.
Calling the achievement an inspiration for future generations, she added: "Now, as India's longest serving Prime Minister, you have inspired generations to dream bigger, strive harder, and contribute to the glory of the motherland."
— IANS
Reader Comments
As an American, I've watched India's rise with admiration. PM Modi's stability over three consecutive terms has clearly paid off. The fact that 250 million were lifted out of poverty is staggering. That said, I hope democratic institutions continue to thrive alongside economic growth.
First generation Indian-American here - this article captures exactly what we feel. When my parents came to the US in the 90s, India was seen as a third-world country. Now, my American colleagues ask me about Silicon Valley in Bangalore and digital India. PM Modi's global outreach has completely changed perceptions. What a journey! 🙌
While I respect the economic progress, I wish we'd also see more criticism of the current government. 12 years of any leader is long - and while there are achievements, issues like unemployment, farmer distress, and media freedom also deserve honest acknowledgment. Balanced growth is real progress.
I work in the IT sector and can confirm the difference. Back in 2014, we were just another outsourcing destination. Now, companies from Silicon Valley are setting up R&D centers in Bengaluru specifically because of the policy stability and talent pool. The India story is real!
The comment about PM outlasting consecutive US presidents struck me. India's foreign policy under Modi has been pragmatic - maintaining strong ties with DC while asserting our own interests. That's the kind of self-respect a rising power should have! USA-India partnership is going to define the 21st century.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.