New Delhi, Oct 7 (NationPress) On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated 25 years of dedicated public service, expressing heartfelt thanks to the citizens for their unwavering trust and affection. He pledged to pursue the vision of a 'Viksit Bharat' with renewed vigor.

In a message shared on X, the Prime Minister reflected, "On this day in 2001, I took the oath as Gujarat's Chief Minister for the first time. Thanks to the continuous blessings of my fellow Indians, I am entering my 25th year of serving as the leader of the Government. My heartfelt gratitude goes out to the people of India. Throughout these years, I have consistently aimed to enhance the lives of our citizens and contribute to the advancement of this great nation that nurtures us all."

Looking back to his initial days in office, PM Modi noted that the BJP had given him the significant responsibility of leading Gujarat during difficult times.

"The state was grappling with a devastating earthquake in the same year. The preceding years had seen a super cyclone, ongoing droughts, and political instability. These challenges only strengthened my resolve to serve the people and rebuild Gujarat with renewed hope and energy," he remarked.

He fondly recalled the wisdom of his late mother on the day of his swearing-in.

"When I took my oath as Chief Minister, I remember my mother saying — I might not understand your work much, but I ask for two things. Firstly, you will always work for the underprivileged and secondly, you will never accept a bribe," he shared.

"I assured the people that every action I take will stem from a genuine intention to serve the very last individual in the line," he added.

The Prime Minister mentioned that his 25 years of service have been filled with numerous experiences, during which India has made significant progress.

Reflecting on his time as Gujarat CM, he stated, "When I took office, there was a prevailing belief that Gujarat would never rise again. Everyday citizens, including farmers, voiced concerns about inadequate power and water supply. Agriculture was stagnant, and industrial growth had halted. Together, we worked to transform Gujarat into a model of effective governance."

He emphasized how Gujarat, once facing drought challenges, emerged as a leading state in both agriculture and industry.

"The culture of trading evolved into robust industrial and manufacturing capabilities. Regular curfews became a relic of the past. Both social and physical infrastructure saw significant improvements. It was immensely fulfilling to collaborate with the people to achieve these results," he stated.

Recalling the year 2013, when he was announced as the BJP's Prime Ministerial candidate, PM Modi remarked, "During that time, the nation faced a crisis of trust and governance. The preceding UPA Government was characterized by rampant corruption, cronyism, and a paralysis of policy."

He further noted that during the UPA regime, India was perceived as a weak link in the global landscape; however, the populace granted the NDA a resounding majority, marking their first absolute majority in three decades.

Highlighting his government’s accomplishments over the last 11 years, PM Modi stated, "We, the People of India, have united to bring about numerous transformations. Our pioneering efforts have empowered individuals across the nation, particularly our Nari Shakti, Yuva Shakti, and diligent Annadatas. More than 25 crore individuals have been lifted from poverty."

Emphasizing India's place on the global stage, he affirmed, "Today, India is recognized as a shining star among major world economies. We boast one of the largest healthcare and social security initiatives globally. Our farmers are innovating and ensuring that we are self-sufficient."

Reiterating his call for adopting 'Swadeshi', the Prime Minister said, "We have enacted extensive reforms, and there is a prevailing sentiment to make India Aatmanirbhar across all sectors, resonating in the clarion call of 'Garv Se Kaho, Yeh Swadeshi Hai'."

In conclusion, PM Modi emphasized his dedication to the people. "I once again express my gratitude to the people of India for their unfaltering trust and affection. Serving our beloved nation is the utmost honor, a responsibility that fills me with appreciation and purpose. Guided by the values of our Constitution, I will strive even harder in the future to realize our shared dream of a Viksit Bharat."