How Have Padma Awardees Commended PM Modi's Growth Initiatives Over 11 Years?

New Delhi, June 9 (NationPress) As the NDA government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrates its eleven-year milestone, many distinguished citizens have referred to this period as a 'remarkable and golden era' of governance.

In discussions with IANS, several Padma Shri awardees reflected on the past decade, highlighting the significant initiatives from Modi 1.0, Modi 2.0, and Modi 3.0 that bode well for the nation's future.

Bihar's respected nephrologist, Hemant Kumar, who received the Padma Shri for his extensive contributions to medical sciences over 30 years, noted substantial advancements in health and education.

"The infant and maternal mortality rates have dropped significantly. Considerable focus has been placed on the girl child, leading to increased school attendance and educational achievements among girls, who are now being incentivized in various ways," he stated.

Social worker Phoolbasan Bai Yadav from Chhattisgarh and President of 'Maa Bamleshwari Self Help Group' emphasized the unprecedented strides made in areas such as women empowerment, sanitation, and the initiatives for a self-reliant and digital India.

"PM Modi has been pivotal in fostering women's self-esteem. With the establishment of self-help groups, countless women have gained employment and achieved self-sufficiency. Our education may be limited, but PM Modi believed in us, and now our sisters and mothers are thriving as Lakhpati Didis," she explained.

Rajnikant, a Geographical Indication (GI) expert and Padma Shri awardee, praised PM Modi’s decade-long leadership as extraordinary.

"During these eleven years, there has been an unparalleled transformation in crafts, arts, agriculture, and GI, attributed to PM Modi's visionary approach," he remarked.

Reflecting on his journey, Rajnikanth mentioned, "It began in Kashi after the GI law was enacted in 2006-07. PM Modi’s 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' and 'Local to Global' slogans have empowered GI initiatives, establishing Kashi as a hub for GI products, housing the highest number of GI products in any region globally—32 at present."

Oncologist Vijayalakshmi Deshmane remarked that PM Modi's leadership has ushered in a new direction for the nation.

Discussing the Padma awards, he noted the previous perception that such honors were reserved for the elite.

"The Narendra Modi government transformed this narrative. Upon receiving my award, I felt compelled to express gratitude to certain Union Ministers, but they redirected me, stating it was PM Modi's insight that recognized unsung heroes. The award selection process is now transparent and inclusive, acknowledging those who contribute significantly while remaining in the shadows," he affirmed.

Padma Shri Kanubhai Hasmukhbhai Taylor equated PM Modi to a divine figure.

"His support has elevated my efforts for 'Divyang' (differently-abled) children and society. I have known him since his days as Gujarat's Chief Minister. For me, Narendra Modi is akin to a deity. He championed the integration of Divyang children into the mainstream, leading to the establishment of a school for them in Surat," he reminisced.

Padma Shri and plastic surgeon Yogi Aeron celebrated the government's 11-year milestone.

"Historically, Padma Shri awards were conferred on VVIPs, but now those making significant impacts at the grassroots level are being honored. I never anticipated receiving a Padma Shri," he stated.

He lauded the Ayushman Bharat scheme, saying, "Even my family in America does not have access to such a program. Ayushman ensures that even the poorest feel secure. Previously, the underprivileged struggled to access quality medical care, but now they can receive better treatment."

Padma Shri and para-athlete K.Y. Venkatesh referred to the PM Modi-led government's 11-year tenure as exceptional.

He commended PM Modi's leadership style and contributions to sports.

"In his current term, PM Modi has excelled in economics, industry, and sports. Our medal tally has soared from single digits in the Asian Games and Paralympics to exceeding three digits in the Asian Games and approaching double digits in the Olympics," he said.

He further acknowledged the government's initiatives for para-athletes, including the establishment of the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Khel Kendra in Madhya Pradesh, managed by the Sports Authority of India, which he described as a significant boon for para-athletes.

Padma Shri Mahesh Sharma expressed that this is a crucial moment for building a 'New India'.

He noted that the PM Modi-led government has not only formulated welfare schemes but also effectively implemented them to transform lives at the grassroots level.

"The Prime Minister's ability to unite the nation as a family is garnering admiration everywhere. He leads by example, not just through words," he remarked.

He highlighted PM Modi's recent initiative to seek suggestions for declaring Mangarh Dham a national monument, which signifies the recognition of tribal contributions and cultural pride.

Padma Shri and Bhajan singer Kaluram Bamaniya from Madhya Pradesh's Dewas praised the Prime Minister's efforts to promote the nation’s culture and uplift the spirits of artists.

"Under PM Modi’s guidance, the country has witnessed tremendous progress in various sectors, including agriculture, education, and health. His significant contributions to the Kabir sect, such as the multi-crore construction of Kabir Math in Gayaji, exemplify this," he added.

Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan Tejas Patel expressed his admiration for the Prime Minister, recounting an encounter prior to Modi's tenure as Chief Minister. He remarked on PM Modi's impressive memory and depth of understanding on diverse topics.

"He recalls names and details even after years. His inquisitive nature and comprehensive grasp of subjects, whether related to medicine or other fields, is remarkable," he concluded.