By Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged India’s youth to look beyond the quick success culture promoted by Reels and social media influencers, saying real achievement is built through patience, hard work and perseverance. Addressing young people at the launch of former President Ram Nath Kovind’s autobiography in New Delhi, Modi encouraged them to read the life stories of people they admire and learn from the struggles behind their achievements.
The Prime Minister said India needs a generation willing to take on difficult challenges rather than search for shortcuts. He linked this mindset to the larger national goal of building a Viksit Bharat, saying young people with dedication, resilience and the courage to create their own path would be essential to taking the country forward.
Modi highlights lessons from Kovind’s journey
Modi was speaking at the release of Kovind’s autobiography, ‘Triumph of the Indian Republic: My Life, My Struggles’. The book traces Kovind’s journey from his early years through his public life and eventual tenure as India’s 14th President.
The Prime Minister said the autobiography offers more than a personal account. In his view, it also captures the values and experiences that shaped Kovind’s approach to public service and provides a broader reflection on India’s democratic journey.
Modi recalled his own association with Kovind during the latter’s presidency and said his guidance had been a source of strength. He also noted that Kovind has remained engaged with public issues even after leaving the country’s highest constitutional office, including discussions around One Nation, One Election.
‘Read the journey, not just the achievement’
Modi called on young Indians to understand Kovind’s life in his own words rather than looking only at the position he eventually attained.
He connected Kovind’s story with the larger aspirations of reformers and social leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi, Dr B R Ambedkar, Jyotiba Phule and Savitribai Phule. According to Modi, these figures imagined an India where people from disadvantaged backgrounds could overcome social and economic barriers and rise to the highest positions.
He said personalities such as Kovind demonstrated how determination, education and ability could turn those long-held aspirations into reality.
The Prime Minister’s message also carried a warning against the growing tendency to measure success through instant recognition. In an era dominated by short videos, online personalities and constantly changing trends, he encouraged young people to spend more time understanding the journeys of people who achieved lasting success.
Kovind stresses education and public service
Speaking at the event, Ram Nath Kovind said politics should not be viewed simply as a route to power but as an avenue for serving the nation.
He also emphasised the transformative role of education, saying it opens doors to opportunities and gives people new directions in life.
Kovind referred to welfare initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, saying millions of people have benefited from efforts aimed at providing housing.
The launch of the autobiography thus became an occasion not only to reflect on Kovind’s personal journey but also to underline a broader message for India’s younger generation: lasting progress comes from learning, persistence and public purpose rather than the pursuit of quick success.
