World leaders have congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi on completing 25 years at the head of an elected government, describing the milestone as a rare achievement in a major democracy. His journey, which began as Gujarat Chief Minister in 2001 and moved to the Prime Minister’s Office in 2014, has made him one of India’s most consequential political figures.

From Gujarat to New Delhi

Modi’s political rise was shaped by years of organisational work in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh and the Bharatiya Janata Party, followed by more than 12 years leading Gujarat. His national leadership has combined welfare delivery, infrastructure development, digital transformation, manufacturing, national security and an increasingly assertive foreign policy.

The Union Cabinet described the 25-year journey through the principles of “Nation First” and “Citizen First”, highlighting initiatives spanning financial inclusion, housing, digital payments, infrastructure, railway electrification, electronics and defence manufacturing, and welfare transfers.

Global Leaders Recognise India’s Transformation

The anniversary generated messages from leaders across Asia, Africa, Europe and the Caribbean. Their tributes went beyond Modi’s political longevity, reflecting India’s growing importance in global affairs.

·       Japan: Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi praised Modi’s contribution to India’s development and international standing, describing his political leadership since 2001 as outstanding. She also emphasised strengthening the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership and their shared vision of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific.

·       Nigeria: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu called 25 years of uninterrupted leadership a “rare achievement in any democracy” and credited Modi with advancing infrastructure, digital public goods, financial inclusion and innovation. He also highlighted cooperation in trade, energy, defence, health, education and technology.

·       Belgium: Prime Minister Bart De Wever congratulated Modi on his “25 years of continuous leadership, from Gujarat to New Delhi”, expressing his desire to deepen the bilateral partnership following his recent India visit.

Bhutan’s Special Tribute

Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay offered one of the most personal tributes, describing Modi as “an avatar of our times.” He recalled Modi’s earlier reference to an avatar of Vishnu and said the Indian leader had awakened a powerful belief among Indians in themselves and their country.

Tobgay particularly praised the confidence and ambition Modi had encouraged among Indians, while underlining the close relationship between the two neighbours and India’s development assistance to Bhutan. His reference to “B4B”—Bharat for Bhutan, Bhutan for Bharat—captured the distinctive character of the bilateral partnership.

A Wider Diplomatic Endorsement

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. praised Modi’s emphasis on governance, innovation, technology, infrastructure and development, while pointing to strengthening India-Philippines ties. Dominica Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit thanked Modi for his friendship and support, while Nepal and Botswana also conveyed warm congratulations and expressed hopes for deeper bilateral cooperation.

Longevity Now Meets a Larger National Test

The international messages underline how Modi’s 25-year political journey is increasingly viewed alongside India’s expanding economic and geopolitical influence.

Yet the next phase will ultimately be judged not by longevity but by delivery. The real measure of Modi’s legacy will be whether the confidence celebrated by global leaders translates into sustained growth, quality employment, stronger institutions and inclusive development on India’s path towards Viksit Bharat 2047.

(With agency inputs)