Former Vice President Venkaiah Naidu and former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda on Wednesday hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the 'most popular' Prime Minister, while praising Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan as a 'son of the soil' during a book launch event in New Delhi.
Naidu Praises Modi's Decision
Speaking at the launch of a book on Chouhan's political journey, Naidu lauded Modi's decision to appoint Chouhan as the agriculture minister. He said that Chouhan possesses 'vision and passion for the nation' and that his experience as a former chief minister of Madhya Pradesh would greatly benefit the agricultural sector.
'The Prime Minister has a keen eye for talent. By choosing Shivraj Singh Chouhan for this crucial portfolio, he has ensured that the farming community gets a leader who understands their challenges and works tirelessly for their welfare,' Naidu remarked.
Deve Gowda's Tribute
Deve Gowda, a former prime minister and veteran leader from Karnataka, also spoke highly of both Modi and Chouhan. He described Modi as the 'most popular Prime Minister' in the country's history, adding that his leadership has brought a new sense of pride and development to India.
'Modi ji's popularity is unmatched. People from all walks of life admire his dedication and vision. And in Shivraj Singh Chouhan, we have a leader who is deeply connected to the soil and the farmers. He is truly a son of the soil,' Deve Gowda said.
Chouhan's Contribution to Agriculture
The book, which chronicles Chouhan's political career and his contributions to agriculture and rural development, was well-received by the audience. Several other political leaders and dignitaries attended the event, highlighting Chouhan's role in transforming Madhya Pradesh's agricultural landscape.
Chouhan, who served as the chief minister of Madhya Pradesh for four terms, has been credited with implementing several farmer-friendly schemes, including the 'Bhavantar Bhugtan Yojana' and 'Mukhyamantri Kisan Kalyan Yojana'. His appointment as the Union Agriculture Minister in 2024 was seen as a strategic move by the Modi government to strengthen its connect with the farming community.
Political Significance
The event also underscored the cross-party appreciation for Modi's leadership and Chouhan's work. Naidu, a former vice president and senior BJP leader, and Deve Gowda, a former prime minister from the Janata Dal (Secular), sharing the stage highlighted the broad-based support for the government's agricultural policies.
Political analysts view this as a significant moment, especially in the run-up to the 2029 general elections, where the farm sector remains a key issue. The book launch served as a platform to reiterate the government's commitment to doubling farmers' income and ensuring sustainable agricultural growth.
In his address, Chouhan thanked both Naidu and Deve Gowda for their kind words and assured the audience that he would continue to work for the welfare of farmers. 'I am grateful for the trust Prime Minister Modi has placed in me. I will leave no stone unturned to ensure that our farmers prosper and the agricultural sector thrives,' he said.
