Agartala

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Wednesday said India has witnessed substantial progress in infrastructure, healthcare and education under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, as the latter became the country's longest-serving elected prime minister.

Modi surpassed the record of India's first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, by completing 4,399 consecutive days in office after being elected through the democratic process. Nehru's tenure as an elected prime minister began after the first general elections in 1952, while he had headed the interim government between 1947 and 1952.

Highlighting the achievements of the past 12 years, Saha said the country had made notable strides across various sectors.

"Over the last 4,399 days, India has achieved remarkable progress in multiple areas, ranging from improved connectivity and stronger healthcare systems to expanded educational opportunities and a growing culture of innovation," the chief minister said in a post on social media.

He added that the country continues to move towards becoming stronger, more prosperous and self-reliant under Modi's leadership.

"Guided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision, India is steadily advancing through development-oriented governance, inclusive growth and a commitment to building an empowered nation," Saha said.

To mark the occasion, Tripura BJP president Abhishek Debroy and state Finance Minister Pranajit Singha Roy participated in a religious programme at the revered Tripura Sundari Temple in Gomati district.

Describing the milestone as historic, Debroy said Modi's achievement reflected political stability and the country's developmental journey.

"The nation has witnessed a historic moment. Narendra Modi has become India's longest-serving elected prime minister by completing 4,399 days in office. This milestone symbolises the country's progress, growth and stable leadership," Debroy wrote on social media.

While former prime minister Indira Gandhi served a cumulative term exceeding 14 years, her tenure was not continuous. By overtaking Nehru's uninterrupted 4,399-day record, Modi has become the longest-serving prime minister elected through successive mandates.

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Modi first assumed office on May 26, 2014, after leading the BJP to a decisive victory in the general elections. He secured a second term with an even larger mandate in 2019, beginning that tenure on May 30. His third consecutive term commenced on June 9, 2024.