Punjab Newsline | Vadnagar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday marked 25 years of his public life with a speech centred on determination, gratitude and nation-building. During his hour-long address, Modi referred to the slogan “We Will Do It” 19 times, stressing that India must continue moving forward with confidence and perseverance.

“I will neither tire nor stop until India becomes developed,” Modi said, underlining his commitment to the country’s development.

Prime Minister said he lives not for ambition but for a mission. Reflecting on the challenges he faced during his political journey, he said, “Those who brought me down taught me how to rise. Those who opposed me taught me the power of democracy.”

Looking back at the past 25 years, Modi said he feels more gratitude than a sense of achievement. He said every incident in his journey had taught him something and made him more humble.

He added that he prays to God that his desire to keep learning never diminishes.

‘Being Born in India Is Itself a Blessing’

Modi said being born in India is itself a matter of immense pride and described the country as a sacred land.

“We were born in this nation, and this realisation itself is nectar. Before it, the comforts of power mean nothing. Positions and prestige can be found anywhere, but a sacred land like India cannot be found anywhere,” he said.

The Prime Minister said the success of his 25-year journey should not be measured by how far he has personally progressed, but by how far the country has moved forward.

“The assessment of these 25 years will not be based on where I have reached, but on where my country has reached,” he said.

‘India Must Lead in Every Field’

Modi said India should aim to emerge as a global leader in technology, sports and industry.

He said the Indian flag should fly high in every field and highlighted the growing global recognition of Indian pilots.

“One day will also come when the world will talk about Made-in-India planes,” he said, adding that such goals could only be achieved through farsighted policies and the highest level of hard work.

‘This Is Not the Time to Rest’

Calling upon the younger generation to seize the opportunity before them, Modi said the country could not afford complacency.

“Now is not the time to rest. This is the time to move forward with thought and determination. It is the time to devote ourselves completely to the nation,” he said.

He added that the large young population of India represents a historic opportunity that should not be wasted.

Modi Recalls India’s Glorious Past

The Prime Minister also spoke about India’s ancient heritage and its historical position as a major global economic power.

He said every Indian should carry the resolve to revive the glory of ancient India.

Modi recalled that India once played a leading role in the world economy but later suffered under colonial rule, during which the country was exploited and devastated.

He also referred to the destruction of libraries and the crises faced by the people, including famines and other hardships. Despite these challenges, he said, the courage of the people of India never disappeared.