PM Narendra Modi Turns 75: Legacy, Milestones and the Road Ahead
September 17, 2025, marks the 75th birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This is not just a personal milestone but also an occasion for India to look back on a leader’s journey from humble beginnings to the highest office in the country, and to reflect on the progress, challenges and hopes that define his tenure.
From Vadnagar to the World Stage
Born in Vadnagar, Gujarat, in 1950, Narendra Damodardas Modi grew up in a modest family and helped at his father’s tea stall. These humble origins shaped his self-image as a leader of the people and inspired his emphasis on hard work, discipline and public service. After his early years in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Modi rose through the ranks of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), becoming Chief Minister of Gujarat in 2001 and later India’s Prime Minister in 2014. His story is often held up as an example of how determination and vision can take someone from small-town India to the global stage.
Key Milestones and Programmes
During his time as Prime Minister, Modi has launched several high-profile reforms and campaigns aimed at transforming governance and improving everyday life:
- Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission): A national campaign to end open defecation and improve sanitation.
- GST Implementation: Introducing a unified Goods and Services Tax to simplify India’s complex tax system.
- Health Initiatives: Expanding vaccination coverage and launching Ayushman Bharat, a health-insurance scheme for low-income families.
- Infrastructure Development: Rural electrification, improved roads, housing and tap-water access.
- Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India): Encouraging domestic manufacturing and reducing dependence on imports.
These initiatives have been praised for their ambition and scale, although critics argue that results have been uneven and more focus is needed on inclusive growth.
The 75th Birthday: Seva Over Celebration
For his 75th birthday, the BJP and supporters have called for “Seva Pakhwada” (a fortnight of service) instead of grand festivities. Blood-donation camps, health check-ups, tree-planting drives and cleanliness campaigns are being held across the country. International leaders and citizens have sent their wishes, recognizing Modi’s growing influence on the world stage. This focus on service reflects the Prime Minister’s message that birthdays should be marked by contribution rather than celebration.
Critiques and Challenges
No leader’s journey is free of criticism. Opponents and observers point out areas where Modi’s government still faces challenges:
- Ensuring that welfare schemes reach the poorest sections effectively.
- Balancing rapid infrastructure growth with environmental sustainability.
- Safeguarding pluralism, democratic freedoms and space for dissent.
- Addressing unemployment and underemployment among India’s youth.
These issues remain central as Modi enters his 76th year.
Looking Ahead
At 75, questions of legacy and the future loom large. India’s ambitions—becoming a developed nation, leading on climate action, harnessing its demographic dividend—will shape Modi’s remaining time in office. Strengthening rural development, empowering women, investing in education and technology, and fostering social harmony will be crucial for long-term success.
On the global stage, Modi has positioned India as a voice of the Global South and an active participant in multilateral forums like the G20, BRICS and COP climate summits. How India navigates shifting geopolitical and economic realities will test both its institutions and leadership.