Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, shared an article authored by former Prime Minister H. D. Deve Gowda that reflects on Prime Minister Narendra Modi becoming India's longest-serving Prime Minister, calling it an insightful piece that highlights the milestones and governing philosophy behind Modi's tenure.

Context

Goyal, sharing the article on X under the hashtag #12YearsOfSeva, noted that Deve Gowda 'sheds light on what has made his tenure so successful.' He added that the former Prime Minister 'highlights the major milestones achieved under PM Modi ji's leadership and his commitment to prioritising national interests while strengthening India's democratic values.'

The post draws attention to a rare instance of cross-party acknowledgement, with Deve Gowda — a leader from outside the BJP's political tradition — publicly reflecting on Modi's record in office.

Policy Backdrop

Narendra Modi first assumed office as Prime Minister in May 2014 following the BJP's decisive general election victory, and has since led the government through three consecutive terms. The #12YearsOfSeva hashtag, circulating widely on June 9, 2026, marks the completion of twelve years of his tenure at the Centre.

H. D. Deve Gowda served as Prime Minister from June 1996 to April 1997, heading the United Front coalition government — one of India's shorter tenures at the top. His decision to write a reflective piece on Modi's record is notable given the contrast in their political backgrounds and the duration of their respective terms.

Stakeholders and Impact

The article and Goyal's amplification of it are directed at a broad audience of Indian voters and political commentators, reinforcing the government's narrative of continuity, development, and democratic commitment over twelve years. Senior BJP leaders sharing such cross-party commentary serves to underline perceived legitimacy and broad-based recognition of the government's record.

Political analysts have noted that successive Prime Ministers from non-Congress parties have periodically offered public reflections on the current leadership, illustrating the norms of democratic commentary in India. Deve Gowda's piece fits within this pattern, lending the tribute an inter-generational and cross-ideological dimension.

What's Next

With the #12YearsOfSeva campaign gaining traction, further statements, articles, or tributes from other former Prime Ministers, senior leaders, and civil society figures are expected in the coming days. Opposition reactions and independent assessments of specific policy milestones cited in such pieces will likely shape the political discourse around Modi's record tenure in the weeks ahead.