Swami Avdheshanand Giri, Acharya Mahamandleshwar of Juna Akhara, on Wednesday, 7 October 2025, praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for what he described as 'uninterrupted devotion' to national service, marking the completion of 25 years in elected office — a journey that began on 7 October 2001 when Modi was sworn in as Chief Minister of Gujarat. The religious leader's tribute, shared on social media platform X, drew on Indian philosophical traditions to frame Modi's public life as a form of national austerity.

The Tribute and Its Context

In his post, Avdheshanand Giri invoked the Indian philosophical concept that work undertaken for the welfare of people constitutes a form of austerity. He described Modi's quarter-century in governance as 'an inspiring expression of service, dedication, and devotion to the nation.' The message arrives on the precise anniversary of Modi's swearing-in as Gujarat's Chief Minister — a milestone widely noted within political and religious circles. Notably, Juna Akhara is one of India's largest and most prominent monastic orders, lending the endorsement a measure of institutional weight within Hindu religious society.

Women's Empowerment and Youth Development

Avdheshanand Giri highlighted women's empowerment and youth development as central pillars of what he characterised as the current development vision. He specifically cited self-help groups, women-led entrepreneurship, and the 'Lakhpati Didi' initiative as examples of programmes encouraging female self-reliance. On youth, he pointed to the government's emphasis on skills, education, startups, and innovation as having opened opportunities for the creative potential of younger generations. 'Empowered women and confident youth are the foundation of a prosperous nation,' he said.

Economy, Infrastructure, and Digital India

Reflecting on India's economic trajectory, Avdheshanand Giri noted the country's continued position among the fastest-growing major economies, attributing a directional role to policy leadership alongside the collective efforts of workers, farmers, entrepreneurs, and scientists. He praised the 'Make in India' initiative and the expansion of domestic manufacturing, as well as research and production in the semiconductor sector, describing these as evidence of foresight into future technological needs. On digital infrastructure, he cited UPI, Direct Benefit Transfer, and digital public service delivery as having made technology more accessible to citizens across the country. The Acharya also referred to the expansion of highways, railways, airports, and rural roads under 'PM Gati Shakti' as widening economic opportunity.

Cultural Renaissance and Religious Sites

Avdheshanand Giri devoted a significant portion of his message to what he termed the cultural dimension of Modi's tenure. He described the redevelopment of Shri Kashi Vishwanath Dham, Shri Mahakal Lok, and Kedarnath Dham as enhancing the dignity of major pilgrimage centres while improving facilities for devotees. He also referenced the construction of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya and the consecration of Shri Ram Lalla as occasions of spiritual significance for millions. 'Kashi represents knowledge and liberation, Ayodhya represents dignity and public welfare, and the worship of Mahakal reminds us of the importance of time,' he said, adding that the inspiration from these shrines should foster 'compassion, discipline, harmony, and service in society.'

Defence, Covid Response, and Viksit Bharat

The Acharya Mahamandleshwar also acknowledged India's growing capabilities in defence production and indigenous equipment manufacturing as a crucial dimension of the country's strategic strength. On the Covid-19 pandemic, he recalled the contributions of doctors, scientists, health workers, and citizens, and praised efforts towards vaccine development, widespread vaccination, and food grain assistance. He also cited India's 'Vaccine Maitri' programme as an expression of commitment to global cooperation. Looking forward, he said the commitment to a 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047 gives the governance journey a future goal whose fulfilment will require participation from every citizen. He concluded with a prayer for Modi's good health, long life, and continued ability to serve the nation.