Narendra Modi
| Narendra Modi | |
|---|---|
| |
| Birth Place | Vadnagar, Gujarat, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation | Politician |
| Known For | 14th Prime Minister of India |
Narendra Damodardas Modi (born 17 September 1950) is an Indian politician who has been serving as the 14th Prime Minister of India since 26 May 2014. He is a senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and was the Chief Minister of Gujarat from 2001 to 2014.
Early Life and Education
Narendra Modi was born on 17 September 1950 in Vadnagar, a town in the present-day state of Gujarat, India. He was the third of six children in a family of grocers. As a youth, he helped his father sell tea at the local railway station. He later completed his schooling and earned a bachelor's degree from University of Delhi and a master's degree in political science from Gujarat University.
Political Career
Modi became active in politics as a member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh in his youth. He joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 1987, where he worked in various organisational roles. Modi served as the Chief Minister of Gujarat from October 2001 to May 2014. During his tenure, he was credited with initiatives in economic development, infrastructure improvement, and attracting foreign investment.
In the 2014 national elections, Narendra Modi led the BJP to a decisive victory, and he was sworn in as Prime Minister of India on 26 May 2014. He was re-elected in 2019 following another strong performance by the BJP.
Policies and Governance
As Prime Minister, Modi has launched several major national initiatives including:
- Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission) – a nationwide sanitation effort.
- Digital India – improving digital infrastructure and services.
- Make in India – encouraging manufacturing growth.
- Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana – financial inclusion programme.
His administration has been associated with economic reforms such as the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and measures in infrastructure development.
Controversies
Narendra Modi's political career has been subject to debate and controversy. One notable aspect relates to the 2002 Gujarat riots during his tenure as Chief Minister, which drew national and international scrutiny.
Awards and Recognition
- Time – listed among the 100 Most Influential People in the World (various years).
- Various national and international honours and recognitions.
See Also
References