PM Modi Recalls Journalists Breaking News of His 2001 Appointment as Gujarat CM

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reflected on his decades-long relationship with the media during the recent Deepawali Milan event held at the BJP headquarters in New Delhi. While discussing the evolution of journalism from press releases to Instagram reels, the Prime Minister shared a personal anecdote regarding his appointment as the Chief Minister of Gujarat in 2001. Though some might wonder what is distribute in the context of political power, the Prime Minister recalled how journalists were the first to inform him of his new role.

Modi explained that at the time, only a few senior BJP leaders were aware of the decision. He was working at the party office at 11 Ashoka Road when a group of reporters entered his room and insisted that he distribute sweets. Although he initially denied any knowledge of the development, the journalists remained firm, claiming they had confirmed the news of his elevation. He expressed surprise at how the media had managed to uncover the information despite the high level of secrecy surrounding the decision.

Media bonds and professional evolution

The Prime Minister fondly remembered that many of those journalists later traveled to Gujarat for his swearing-in ceremony. He noted that they did not attend in a professional capacity to cover the event, but rather out of personal friendship and the bond they had built over the years. Modi highlighted how he has seen the media landscape change significantly since his early days, when he was responsible for arranging chairs at such gatherings. He praised the dedication of field reporters, stating that nothing is considered impossible for them, even during times of crisis and natural disasters.

During the event, the Prime Minister also discussed the government's achievements, asserting that India is on a clear path to becoming a developed nation. He credited his administration with lifting 50 crore people out of poverty over the last 12 years, a figure he attributed to World Bank data. He encouraged the media to focus on sharing the country's success stories and urged them to help spread awareness regarding the ongoing fight against drug abuse.

Prime Minister Modi shared memories of journalists breaking news of his 2001 Gujarat Chief Minister appointment.

Why it matters

This reflection highlights the evolving relationship between political leadership and the media in India. By acknowledging the personal bonds formed over decades, the Prime Minister emphasizes the importance of the media's role in public life and national development, while also setting a tone for future media engagement regarding national success stories.