PM Modi's recent tour of Japan, Papua New Guinea and Australia can be seen as a marker of his growing popularity and influence

In a world filled with diverse cultures, ideologies, and ambitions, PM Modi Ji's engagements have gone beyond the realm of mere diplomacy, becoming more of a celebration of India's global leadership and cultural heritage.

 The immense respect and goodwill that the world leaders feel for India and its leader, PM Modi Ji is reflected in their various extraordinary gestures—be it President Biden seeking his autograph or Prime Minister James Marape of Papua New Guinea showing his respect by touching PM Modi's feet at the airport or Australian PM Albanese referring to PM Modi as 'The Boss',

The New Zealand Prime Minister specially came all the way down to Papua New Guinea to meet our leader, demonstrating a deep appreciation for India's leadership. All these countries may have varying opinions on several issues, but such heartfelt gestures highlight PM Modi Ji's popularity and India’s growing stature.

Several unprecedented honours came India’s way too. The highest awards of Papua New Guinea (Companion of the Order of Logohu) and Fiji (Companion of the Order of Fiji) were conferred upon PM Modi Ji, symbolizing his tireless efforts in championing the unity of Pacific Island countries and spearheading the cause of the Global South. Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister, James Marape, referred to PM Modiji as the 'leader of the Global South'. These accolades firmly establish PM Modi Ji's standing as an international leader and further enhance India's reputation on the world stage.

At the community reception in Australia, leaders of all hues-- the Australian PM – accompanied by the Leader of the Opposition, Foreign Minister, former Prime Minister, and several other ministers – walked hand in hand with PM Modi Ji. The illumination of the Sydney Opera House in the colours of the Indian flag, and the renaming of Harris Park to Little India further emphasize the influence of India and its diaspora in Australia.

Great Push for Indian Culture, Values, and Ethos.

PM Modi Ji also effectively utilized global platforms to showcase Indian culture, values, and ethos.

By wearing recycled materials at the G7 and the Forum for India–Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC), and hosting a lunch for FIPIC leaders featuring Indian cuisine and millet-based items, PM Modi Ji showcased India's commitment to sustainability. Hiroshima which was the first to face atomic bombing in the history of mankind, today serves as the most fitting setting for commemorating the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi and PM Modi ji's unveiling his bust in this historic city symbolises the message of non-violence that Gandhi ji stood for.

Also, the release of the timeless Tamil classic, "Thirukkural," in the Tok Pisin language, was an effort to bring Indian thought and culture closer to the people of Papua New Guinea. In his engagements with industry leaders, scientists, academicians, and cultural icons, PM Modi Ji positioned India as the world's preferred investment destination, fostering economic growth and job creation.

Nobel Laureate Brian Paul Schmidt, who met the PM, highlighted India's scientific prowess and its ability to undertake world-class research. “PM Modi is one of the most visible leaders that India has had in my lifetime. He takes an interest in whoever he talks to, whether it’s the President of USA or someone he meets for first time from society. India’s ability to do world class science has become an order of magnitude higher,” he told reporters after the meeting.

In Professor Toby Walsh’s words, India is “absolutely world’s most extraordinary democracy. UPI is a wonderful example of how India can do things itself.” During his diplomatic parleys in the Quad, FIPIC, and G7 summits, the Prime Minister underscored India's active role in shaping the global agenda and fostering collaborations among nations. He interacted with over two dozen world leaders throughout his visits. The community event in Sydney was attended by around 20 thousand people.

In contrast to some leaders who blame others or badmouth the country, PM Modi Ji's speech singularly focussed on the India Story, highlighting its progress, achievements, and aspirations. From Japan to Papua New Guinea and Australia, the newspaper headlines widely featured PM Modi Ji, capturing the collective attention and fascination of readers everywhere. The world today looks at India with awe and respect. Under PM Modi Ji's leadership, India's ascent to becoming the 5th largest economy has been swift and promises peace, opportunity, development, and sustainability.

Opposition politicians, like Rahul Gandhi, have developed a regrettable habit of resorting to abuse and falsehoods. They regularly undermine India's image, and our democracy and heap insults on our Prime Minister, our government and also our nation and leave no stones unturned to downplay India’s staggering achievements. By this, they are doing a huge disservice to the nation and people will never forgive them.

PM Modi Ji’s leadership, diplomacy, and vision have strengthened international relations, garnered admiration from world leaders, attracted investments, and fuelled economic expansion. Without indulging in such petty politicking, we all must work together for India's progress, celebrate its growth and development, in line with the Prime Minister's principle of Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas Sabka Vishwas and Sabka Prayas.

(The writer is MoS, Electronics & Information Technology,)