Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised former President Ram Nath Kovind for preserving his humility, simplicity and commitment to public service despite reaching the highest constitutional office in the country.
Speaking about Kovind’s autobiography, Modi highlighted the former President’s journey from a modest background to the Presidency and said his life reflects the aspirations of millions of Indians who have overcome hardship through determination and hard work.
Modi Recalls Kovind’s Humble Conduct
Modi recalled his meetings with Kovind at Rashtrapati Bhavan and said the former President would often go beyond protocol to personally see the Prime Minister off at the car.
The Prime Minister said Kovind’s humility remained unchanged even while serving as President.
He also recalled Kovind’s visit to his native village Paraunkh after becoming President. During the visit, Kovind paid respect to his teachers, bowed to the soil of his village and interacted warmly with ordinary people.
Modi said these moments reflected the deep-rooted Indian values of humility, respect and gratitude.
Kovind’s Journey Reflects a New India
Modi said India’s social and economic journey has been shaped by generations of struggle and sacrifice. He recalled the contributions of Mahatma Gandhi, Dr B.R. Ambedkar, Jyotirao Phule and Savitribai Phule in shaping the vision of an inclusive India.
He said Kovind’s rise demonstrated that people from ordinary and disadvantaged backgrounds can reach the highest positions through education, perseverance and hard work.
The Prime Minister stressed that India needs more young people who can face difficulties with courage and continue working toward their goals without losing hope.
Autobiography Offers Lessons for Young Indians
Modi described Kovind’s autobiography as a valuable source of inspiration for the younger generation.
He said the book provides an opportunity to understand the challenges, experiences and values that shaped Kovind’s life. It also offers lessons about integrity, discipline and commitment to public service.
According to Modi, autobiographies allow readers to understand historical developments through the personal experiences of those who witnessed and participated in them.
Kovind’s Commitment to Public Service
The Prime Minister also highlighted Kovind’s experiences with former Prime Minister Morarji Desai and said those experiences contributed to his approach toward politics and social service.
Also Read: FCRA Bill Faces Fierce Opposition, Sent To JPC Amid Parliament Uproar
Modi pointed to Kovind’s work as a parliamentarian, Governor and President as evidence of his consistent dedication to his responsibilities.
Even after completing his presidential tenure, Kovind has continued to remain engaged with important national issues. Modi specifically referred to his involvement in discussions surrounding the One Nation, One Election initiative.
He said such efforts could contribute to a new phase in India’s democratic development.
A Story of Integrity and Perseverance
Modi said Kovind’s life holds particular significance for people from poor and deprived backgrounds because it demonstrates how difficult circumstances do not have to compromise a person’s principles.
He emphasized that values developed during challenging periods can become the foundation of a person’s character and later strengthen their ability to serve society and the nation.
Kovind’s journey, according to Modi, demonstrates the importance of remaining connected to one’s roots while accepting greater responsibilities.
Message to Youth: Avoid the Shortcut Culture
Modi also urged young Indians to remain cautious about the growing culture of instant success, social media distractions and shortcuts.
He encouraged the youth to read autobiographies of people they admire and learn from their struggles, failures, decisions and achievements.
He drew an analogy from railway safety warnings, noting that people who try to take shortcuts instead of using designated bridges can put themselves at risk. The message, he said, applies equally to life, where sustained effort is often more valuable than shortcuts.
Mother’s Sacrifice Behind Every Success
The message also highlights a universal truth about success: a mother’s sacrifices may often remain unseen, but they frequently become the foundation upon which her child builds a successful life.
Modi expressed confidence that Kovind’s autobiography would preserve not only memories of his personal journey but also important chapters of India’s democratic history.
He hoped the book would reach future generations, particularly young Indians, and inspire them to value humility, honesty, perseverance and public service.
Kovind’s journey from modest beginnings to the Presidency stands as an example of how determination and strong values can transform an individual’s life while contributing to the larger story of a changing India.
Click here to join our WhatsApp Channel for real-time news updates and exclusive coverage.
