Chandigarh: At a heartfelt event hosted at the Press Club, Chandigarh, to honour the brave officers and veterans of the Indian Armed Forces, Middle East-based businessman and philanthropist Monish Behl delivered a stirring address, filled with admiration for India’s progress under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Speaking to a packed audience, Mr. Behl said, “We are building and connecting India at an unbelievable pace. This is a new India — confident, determined, and globally respected. And at the heart of this transformation is PM Modi, whose leadership has redefined India’s place in the world. PM Modi is not just a leader for India; he is a global statesman whose vision and actions are admired across continents.”
He went on to highlight how this admiration is echoed by world leaders. In October 2023, Russian President Vladimir Putin described PM Modi as a “very wise man.” French President Emmanuel Macron praised PM Modi’s balanced perspective on international conflicts, appreciating his efforts to promote peace and dialogue. US President Donald Trump referred to Modi as a “great friend,” underscoring the strong personal bond and strategic partnership between India and the US. During her visit to India in March 2023, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni went as far as calling Modi the “most loved leader around the world,” a reflection of his wide-reaching popularity.
Mr. Behl also shared a personal moment from a meeting with the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, who expressed sincere gratitude towards India and PM Modi for sending COVID-19 vaccines during the peak of the global pandemic. “That’s the kind of leadership that touches lives,” he said. “An Indian voice is now heard and respected across the globe. We are proud to be Indian.”
Behl concluded by saying, “India is no longer just rising — India has arrived. Our soldiers protect our borders, and our leaders, like PM Modi, protect our dignity on the world stage. This is the time to stand tall, stand united, and keep moving forward with pride.”
The event not only honoured the courage and sacrifices of India’s armed forces but also celebrated the renewed global identity of India — strong, compassionate, and led by visionary leadership.
