From tea seller to world's most popular global leader: A look back at PM Modi's journey

On September 17, 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi turned 73. Notably, just two days before his birthday, he retained his position at the top of a global approval ratings list for world leaders, with an impressive 76 per cent approval rating according to a survey by Morning Consult. This remarkable achievement underscores the incredible journey of a man who started his life as a tea seller in a small town in Gujarat and rose to become not only the Prime Minister of the world's largest democracy but also the world's most popular global leader.

Journey from Vadnagar

Narendra Modi's inspiring life journey began in Vadnagar, a small town in North Gujarat's Mehsana district. He was born on September 17, 1950, three years after India gained its independence. Raised in a modest family, Narendra Modi grew up in a small single-storey house, measuring approximately 40 feet by 12 feet.

During his formative years, Modi learned tough lessons as he balanced his studies with working at the family-owned tea stall to make ends meet. Known for his industrious nature, even as a child, he displayed an affinity for debates and a deep curiosity for reading. Friends from his school days recall how he spent countless hours immersed in books at the local library.

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Modi's early exposure to the works of Swami Vivekananda laid the foundation for his journey towards spiritualism and inspired him to work towards fulfilling Swamiji's dream of making India a Jagat Guru, a global leader.

Joining RSS

At the age of 17, Modi left home to travel across India for two years, exploring its diverse cultures. Upon his return, he joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in Ahmedabad. This marked the beginning of a rigorous routine for Modi, who became a Pracharak for RSS in 1972. His days typically started at 5 am and extended late into the night. In the late 1970s, he actively participated in the movement to restore democracy in India during the tumultuous Emergency period.

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First Political Victory

Continuing to shoulder various responsibilities within the RSS during the 1980s, Modi emerged as an exemplary organiser. In 1987, he took on the role of General Secretary of the BJP in Gujarat, marking a significant turning point. In his first major task, Modi led the BJP to victory in the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation elections, a historic win for the party.

He also played a pivotal role in making the BJP a strong contender against the Congress in the 1990 Gujarat Assembly elections. In the 1995 Assembly elections, Modi's organisational skills led to an increase in the BJP's vote share and a victory in 121 seats.

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Subsequently, Modi served as the National Secretary of the BJP from 1995, overseeing party activities in Haryana and Himachal Pradesh. In his capacity as BJP's General Secretary Organisation, he played a crucial role in ensuring the BJP's success in the 1998 Lok Sabha elections. In September 2001, a phone call from then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee opened a new chapter in his life as he transitioned from organisational politics to the realm of governance, becoming the Chief Minister of Gujarat.

The Chief Minister Modi

In 2001, Narendra Modi assumed the role of Chief Minister of Gujarat, and from that point onwards, his trajectory was nothing short of remarkable. As Chief Minister, he presided over a period of rapid economic growth in the state and implemented several popular social welfare schemes, including SWAGAT online programme, Vibrant Gujarat Summit, Praveshotsav, Gunotsav, and the celebration of various national festivals.

Modi took charge of Gujarat when the state was grappling with the aftermath of a devastating earthquake in Bhuj. His leadership resulted in the reconstruction of Bhuj and positioned Gujarat as an attractive investment destination through the "Vibrant Gujarat" events. Under his stewardship, Gujarat became self-reliant in power generation and developed world-class infrastructure, earning it global recognition.

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2014 Elections: A Watershed Moment

The success of Gujarat under Modi's leadership was resonating across the country, while the UPA government was facing allegations of scams and corruption. In September 2013, Modi was named the BJP's candidate for prime minister ahead of the 2014 Lok Sabha election.

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On May 26, 2014, history was made as Modi took oath as the Prime Minister of India following a historic mandate from the people, making him the first Prime Minister born in independent India. Leading the BJP to a parliamentary majority, Modi also became the first PM since 1984 to achieve this feat.

In office, his administration focused on increasing foreign investment, introduced key economic reforms such as demonetisation and the Goods and Services Tax, and launched numerous social welfare schemes.

Modi initiated a high-profile cleanliness campaign known as the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, implemented the demonetization of high-denomination banknotes in 2016, and introduced the Goods and Services Tax. Additionally, his administration rolled out several schemes, including Jan Dhan Yojna, Jan Suraksha Yojna, Mudra Yojna, Digital India, Ujjalwala Yojna, Ujala Yojna, Ayushman Bharat Yojna, Kisan Samma Nidhi Yojna, Awas Yojna, Atmanirbhar Bharat, and Make in India. Under his leadership, Article 370 was revoked, and the practice of triple talaq was banned.

Under his leadership, Article 370 was abrogated, triple talaq was made illegal, and India conducted surgical strikes in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in 2016 and Balakot airstrikes in 2019.

The Ongoing Journey

Modi returned to power in 2019 with a resounding victory in the general elections. His leadership has significantly impacted India, with the country moving up to the fifth position among the world's largest economies. He has set an ambitious goal to make India the world's third-largest economy by 2030. Under his leadership, India has hosted mega G20 Summits, gaining recognition as a global leader.

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Modi's strategic approach during the COVID-19 pandemic not only benefited India but also extended support to other countries by providing medicines and vaccines. Despite criticism from the opposition on various issues, PM Modi remains the most popular politician in India and the world, admired for his ability to make tough decisions in the nation's interest.