'This is only third term, we will continue to work to realise dream of developed India'; Modi hints that he will not retire anytime soon

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that the NDA government has brought real development to the poor instead of delivering empty slogans. He asserted that India must continue moving forward to achieve the goals of a developed nation. Referring to his leadership, Modi emphasized that he is currently in his third term. His remarks came amidst speculation about whether he would retire at 75, hinting that he still has responsibilities to fulfil. The Prime Minister was responding to the Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address in the Lok Sabha.

Modi highlighted that he had been given the opportunity to respond to the President’s address for the 14th time because of his genuine commitment to understanding the struggles of the poor, the hardships of the common people, and the challenges faced by the middle class.

Mr Clean sent only 15 paise
Referring to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, popularly known as "Mr Clean," Modi recalled that during his tenure, only 15 paise from every rupee allocated by the central government actually reached the villages. At that time, a single party ruled from the Panchayat level to Parliament, making it clear where the rest of the money had disappeared, the PM said.

Taking a dig at Rahul Gandhi, Modi remarked that those who visit slums for photo sessions and personal entertainment might find parliamentary discussions on poverty boring. This was a response to Rahul’s comment that the President’s speech was boring. Modi added that those who enjoy visiting slums for entertainment might find it dull when the real voice of the poor is heard in Parliament.

Addressing Rahul Gandhi’s comments on China, Modi stated that talking about foreign policy requires maturity. Modi, who reiterated that Rahul was using the language of "Urban Naxals", added that those who call for war against the Indian state have no right to speak about the Constitution or national unity. Without mentioning Sonia Gandhi directly, Modi also questioned why the opposition needed to insult the country’s first tribal woman President.

Without directly naming Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, Modi stated that he did not use government funds to build "Sheesh Mahal" (luxurious palaces) but invested them in nation-building. He also mocked the opposition's uproar during his speech, saying that people tend to talk more when they are feverish and frustrated.