MODI’S MAURITIUS VISIT WILL SIGNIFICANTLY IMPACT BIHAR POLLS, ESPECIALLY ON 73 SEATS: Dr CHANDRA

Highlighting the significant international branding Bihar received during Narendra Modi’s Mauritius visit, Dr Jagdeesh Chandra pointed out that both the Mauritian President and Prime Minister have their roots in Bihar. Along with mentions of Ganga water, Makhana, and Madhubani paintings, Dr Chandra emphasised how Modi connected Holi with the cultural sentiments of both nations, making it a unifying gesture. He also noted the extensive media coverage of the visit, particularly in India and Mauritius, calling it A+ category coverage. Dr Chandra stressed the effectiveness of Modi’s media management, which has consistently ensured strong, impactful coverage, unlike previous administrations, making this visit a major success in terms of media attention. (Part II)

• What is the difference in the basic strategy between Xi Jinping and Narendra Modi to increase their influence in Mauritius and Indian Ocean countries?
  Dr Jagdeesh Chandra: The fundamental difference lies in their strategies. China’s approach revolves around providing loans, grants, and assistance through projects. On the other hand, Narendra Modi’s policy is human-centric and cultural. China lacks soft power, whereas, India possesses it. In Modi’s policy, soft power dominates, not hard power. What is soft power? It involves understanding the needs of small nations, such as Mauritius. It means visiting these countries, meeting their leaders, fostering camaraderie, giving gifts, maintaining public relations, and addressing their humanitarian needs. India’s intention is not expansionist; it is about helping smaller nations. Conversely, China’s approach is more expansionist, with the aim of drowning countries in debt, making them unable to repay and eventually taking control. For instance, when you take a car loan and can’t pay it back, the bank takes possession. This mindset reflects China’s approach. Modi, however, works through humanity, fulfilling smaller needs, and this sets his strategy apart as more human-centric.
   
• I read in newspapers that India has expanded the Rupee-based Line of Credit to Mauritius. What does this mean?
  It’s a significant agreement on currency settlement, allowing both countries to make payments in their own currencies. This is a major monetary reform during this visit. It benefits Mauritius, and it’s a gesture of generosity from the Indian government. The local currency settlement is a positive initiative, helping both nations move beyond the economic challenges they faced. It is a step forward in enhancing their economic ties.
   
• During his visit to Mauritius, Narendra Modi shared an interesting story about calling sugar “Moras” in Gujarat. Can you explain this story?
  The story comes from old memories. Modi, being someone who recalls things vividly, shared that, in the past, sugar was brought from Mauritius to Gujarat to make sweets. In the local dialect, sugar was called “Moras.” He recalled that as the Chief Minister of Gujarat, he remembered this fondly. The story symbolised the sweetness in the relationship between India and Mauritius, much like sugar adds sweetness to sweets. Modi said that just as sugar brought sweetness to Holi in Gujarat, the relationship between India and Mauritius now has a sweet bond.
   
• What difference do you see between Narendra Modi’s first visit to Mauritius in 1998 and the one on March 11-12, 2025, from the perspective of the Prime Minister?
  There’s a big difference. His first visit in 1998 was as a simple BJP worker, while now, he visits as a global leader and Prime Minister. There’s no comparison. Though Modi himself remains grounded, the world sees the change. In 1998, the entire Mauritian government did not greet him at the airport, and he was not in any official capacity. At that time, Modi said that it was his first time attending an international Ramayana conference in Mauritius, and he was happy even as a simple worker. Now, when he visited as Prime Minister, the entire Mauritian government warmly welcomed him. The essence of the relationship remains the same, but the circumstances have changed.
   
• What can you say about Narendra Modi’s “Gangajal Diplomacy” in Mauritius that won the hearts of people in both Mauritius and India?
  Narendra Modi’s actions, whatever they may be, always become a huge success. The act of offering Gangajal in Mauritius was done with pure intentions, religious sentiments, and respect. While some may label it as part of political diplomacy, it was more of a heartfelt gesture. Modi spoke of how many Mauritians wanted to bathe in the Maha Kumbh but couldn’t, so he brought water from the sacred confluence of the Ganga for them. This gesture resonated deeply with people. He prayed for Mauritius’ success, prosperity, and growth with the blessings of the Ganga. While some may interpret it as diplomacy, for many, it was a deeply emotional and spiritual act. The event made waves, with people recording videos and taking selfies. Narendra Modi once again won the hearts of millions, especially for this act of religious devotion.
   
• Do you think the opposition in India is unhappy or upset about Modi’s Gangajal Diplomacy in Mauritius?
  Of course, they must be upset. Narendra Modi’s ideas are always ahead of others. He has a very fertile, alert mind that works 24/7. It’s a political mindset that no other party seems to have at the moment. The opposition is undoubtedly concerned because the impact of such gestures is palpable, especially in places like Bihar, where Ganga water holds immense significance. Recently, the Maha Kumbh issue strengthened cultural pride, and this act added more honour to that legacy. It’s natural that the opposition would feel unsettled because these actions touch the hearts of people, especially in Bihar.
   
• Prime Minister Modi started his speech in Mauritius in Bhojpuri. What message does he want to convey to the people of India, especially Bihar, through this?
  The message is clear: “I am close to you.” Even though he is over 5,000 kilometres away in Mauritius, he wants the people of Bihar, especially the Bhojpuri-speaking population, to know that they are close to his heart. Modi’s efforts to learn and speak Bhojpuri reflect his deep connection with the people. It is surprising how much effort he puts into learning languages and ideas, often coming up with fresh approaches. This trip is emotionally significant, especially for people from Bihar, and the Bhojpuri speech sent a positive and heartfelt message to them.
   
• During his 30-minute speech in Hindi and Bhojpuri, Narendra Modi mentioned Patna’s Gandhi Maidan. Are there any political implications behind this?
  It was another emotional gesture. Gandhi Maidan is iconic in Patna, the place for all political rallies. By mentioning it, Modi reconnected with the people of Bihar, especially those in Patna. His words were strategic in strengthening the mental bond with the people. Opponents, like Tejashwi Yadav, might feel uneasy about this, as it touches the emotions of people in Bihar. There’s already speculation about how Modi’s Mauritius visit will influence the upcoming Bihar elections. Surveys show that Modi’s visit will have an impact, particularly in 73 seats in Bihar.
   
• After Narendra Modi gifted a box of Bihar’s ‘Makhana’ (fox nuts) to the Prime Minister of Mauritius, where do you think this Makhana brand will go next? Will it influence the sentiments of Bihar’s voters?
  The impact of this gesture will not be limited to Bihar. Makhana, as an industry, will see a significant rise, with major investments coming in. Bihar’s traders in various sectors like real estate, clothing, and oils may shift their focus to the Makhana industry. It has now become a big brand, with Modi’s personal endorsement. The brand has gained national recognition, and people will begin consuming it more widely. There is a sentiment in Bihar where people feel proud of their local produce, and this gesture has helped boost their identity. Modi has given it a national identity, and this will only grow.
   
• Is it true that during his Mauritius visit, Narendra Modi gave Bihar international branding?
  Absolutely, Bihar was prominently highlighted during this visit. First, the Mauritian President and Prime Minister, both of whom have roots in Bihar, were mentioned, showcasing their connection. Then, there was the mention of the Ganga water, the gift of Makhana, and the promotion of Madhubani paintings to other nations. Modi also highlighted Nalanda University, pointing out that at a time when education wasn’t widely known, Bihar was proud to have Nalanda, an international university. Modi made it clear that Makhana is just one part of Bihar’s significant branding. This visit significantly enhanced Bihar’s image on the global stage. As I always say, if you want to turn soil into gold, learn from Narendra Modi.
   
• Why did Narendra Modi refer to Mauritius as “Mini Hindustan,” and how beautifully did he connect the festival of Holi to the emotions of the people of both countries?
  You are right. Modi beautifully connected Holi with this visit. He mentioned that after this day, the colours of Holi would splash everywhere on March 14, and he said that Lord Ram would play the dholak, Lakshman would play the manjira, Bharat would hold a golden pichkari, and Shatrughna would have abir and gulal. He linked Holi with the culture, the Ramayana, and spirituality, bringing enthusiasm to the festival. Modi connected Holi to the people’s emotions, and this was a very positive gesture. It merged religion, culture, and public sentiment in a beautiful way, making it a powerful move.
   

What kind of response did Narendra Modi’s Mauritius visit receive in the international media?

• The response was good overall. There was considerable attention in newspapers in London and some in the U.S., though they did not give it as much prominence, as it wasn’t considered a major event for them. However, in India and Mauritius, it received top-tier coverage, with no negative headlines. Every newspaper, whether in Hindi or English, covered the visit prominently. I often say that the Prime Minister’s office has a very competent, visionary, and controlled media management approach—it’s exceptional. Unlike past PMs, particularly Manmohan Singh, whose media coverage often felt limited, when Modi travels, the entire nation watches on TV with immense curiosity. The media coverage of this visit was highly effective, with impactful headlines in both Hindi and English. We can confidently say that this visit received A+ category media coverage.

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