At SOUL Conclave, PM Modi Stresses the Need for World-Class Leadership and Global Thinking to Shape India’s Future as a Developed Nation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during the inaugural session of the School of Ultimate Leadership (SOUL) Conclave held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on Friday, highlighted the significance of leadership in the progress of Gujarat. Reflecting on Gujarat’s journey as a separate state, Modi shared how, during its formation, many doubted its potential. People questioned what Gujarat could achieve since it had no coal or mines, only the vast Rann desert. However, through strong leadership, Gujarat not only overcame these challenges but became the number one state in India, setting an example for others to follow. He also pointed out that although Gujarat lacks diamond mines, it handles 9 out of the world’s top 10 diamonds, showcasing its entrepreneurial spirit.
In his address, the Prime Minister emphasized that the development of citizens is key to the progress of any country. The SOUL initiative, aimed at fostering leadership, he said, is a crucial step toward India’s path to becoming a developed nation. Modi also drew inspiration from Swami Vivekananda, who believed that having just 100 leaders could not only bring freedom to India but also make it the number one country in the world. Modi urged that we should all strive toward this vision.
The six key takeaways from his speech were:
Need for strong leadership: Modi stressed the importance of excellent leadership in all sectors, especially in shaping India for the 21st century.
Innovation and resources: He pointed out that for India to progress, we need resources — both natural and human — that encourage innovation and skill development.
India as a global power: India is emerging as a global power, and to sustain this momentum, world-class leadership is essential. SOUL institutions can play a pivotal role in this transformation.
Global thinking with local action: The Prime Minister highlighted that India must blend global thinking with local solutions to create a strong leadership foundation for its future.
Smart leaders for global competition: India needs leaders who understand both Indian culture and the global context. These leaders must be adept at decision-making, crisis management, and future planning.
World-class policy-making: Modi emphasized that India’s policy-making must be world-class, achievable when policymakers, bureaucrats, and entrepreneurs work together to incorporate global best practices. SOUL institutions can play a crucial role in this process.
SOUL, based in Gujarat, aims to nurture leadership qualities in individuals, particularly those who don’t come from political backgrounds but aspire to make a positive impact on society.
The two-day SOUL Conclave, held on February 21 and 22, brought together people from various fields such as politics, sports, arts, business, and social work to share their experiences and ideas.
In conclusion, PM Modi’s speech underscored a vision for India’s future — one driven by leadership capable of navigating both local and global challenges, fostering innovation, and strengthening the country’s global presence.
