Friday, April, 04,2025

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THE MODI EFFECT LEADERSHIP THAT DELIVERS

The narrators share that before becoming Gujarat’s CM in 2001, Narendra Modi travelled extensively as a BJP worker, listening to villagers’ problems. Modi also initiated several projects to address water challenges in Maharashtra. Despite his busy schedule, Modi is known for his remarkable memory, as well as warmth and sincerity he extends to others and lots more....

Narendra Modi’s visionary ‘Jyotigram Yojana’ transformed rural Gujarat - PK Pujari, Former IAS officer / Saurabh Patel, Former Minister for Energy, Gujarat

In 2006, Gujarat launched the revolutionary ‘Jyotigram Yojana,’ ensuring uninterrupted, high-quality, threephase power supply to all 18,000 villages across the state. Before Narendra Modi became Chief Minister of Gujarat in 2001, he had travelled extensively in rural areas of the state as a BJP worker, hearing firsthand from villagers about their struggles without reliable and sustained electricity supply. Power outages were common, affecting both daily life and local businesses. After taking office, Modi pledged to bring 24- hour electricity to every village, an ambitious goal amid nationwide power shortages. In rural Gujarat, power cuts were initially aimed at conserving electricity for farmers but ended up affecting entire villages. A single feeder line supplied both agricultural and domestic power, leading to frequent tripping when farmers drew extra power for irrigation, often through illicit connections. Chief Minister Modi’s solution was revolutionary: separate feeder lines for agricultural and residential purposes. This way, one line would provide eight hours of power for farming, while the second would offer continuous electricity for households and small businesses. At that time, engineers voiced concerns, saying the work was challenging, which would still take considerable time. However, Narendra Modi was resolute and insisted, ‘This reform has to happen across the whole of Gujarat’. And thus, the ‘Jyotigram Yojana’ was launched in 2006, and 18,000 villages began receiving 24-hour electricity. After his 2002 election victory, Chief Minister Narendra Modi called a meeting and asked the officials, ‘Where is the power reform you’ve been talking about?’ We then presented him with a new plan, noting that Gujarat’s electricity act dated back to 1902, from the time of Lord Curzon. Under Modi’s leadership, Gujarat passed the Electricity Act of 2003, which enabled a complete overhaul of the state’s power infrastructure. In that meeting, Modi directed, ‘Get this act ready within 90 days.’ Meeting this deadline was challenging, but Modi regularly reviewed the work and offered guidance. Our first meeting on the act took place in December 2002, and the new Gujarat State Electricity Bill was passed in March 2003— meeting the 90-day target. The Gujarat Electricity Board was divided into seven companies, making Gujarat the first state in India to carry out such comprehensive power sector reforms. When Narendra Modi first announced that Gujarat would provide 24-hour uninterrupted electricity to villages, many people ridiculed the idea, saying it was impossible. However, Narendra Modi proved them wrong by successfully implementing the ‘Jyotigram Yojana’ and delivering on his promise. The Chief Minister knew that the scheme will bring revolutionary transformation in Gujarat. He told us that this will help in opening more rural industries. Moreover, he highlighted that women would be able to operate more electronic gadgets like washing machines, water filters, mixers, water pumps etc, reducing their physical burden and save their time for more productive work. Small trades including those of blacksmiths, carpenters, flour mill owners etc. saw increased income, while it made a significant impact on women’s health. Modi said, “If we want to make Gujarat villages prosperous and reduce migration to cities, we must provide 24-hour electricity.” CM Modi also advocated dividing power distribution into regional companies, which reduced annual losses by nearly Rs 1,000 crore. Bureaucrats initially doubted the feasibility of the plan, but CM Modi’s unwavering trust in the scheme led to a huge transformation. The scheme was so successful that it caught the attention of APJ Abdul Kalam, then President of India, who attended the launch event near Vadodara in 2006. Kalam was astounded that all 18,000 villages in Gujarat had been electrified, with the installation of approximately 1 lakh kilometres of power lines and 20 lakh electric poles across the state. The scheme’s success brought a new wave of growth, setting a benchmark for rural electrification across India and turning Gujarat into a model for development. Today, Jyotigram’s legacy endures, illustrating how visionary leadership and strategic reforms can bring about transformative change in even the remotest parts of India.

Narendra Modi ji’s prompt action boosted Maharashtra’s readiness against droughts - Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CM, Maharashtra

The drought of 2016, I believe, was no less than a tragedy. It was after many years that a drought of such large scale had struck us. There was literally no drinking water, agriculture was ruined. People were in deep distress during that time. I, as then CM of the state, sought the help of the Centre and went to meet Modi ji in Delhi. I requested Modi ji to provide assistance at this time of crisis but also find a long-term solution to the problem. I told him that we have several small irrigation projects in Maharashtra’s Marathwada and Vidarbha regions, which are half complete and deserved attention. I told him we don’t have funds to take up these unfinished projects and thin-spreading of resources by previous governments led to this. Funds were allocated here and there in bits and pieces and this led to a plethora of incomplete projects. Had these projects been completed, we could at least sustain even in no-rain or less rain scenario instead of suffering like this. Modi ji immediately took this up and instructed to prepare the project plan for at least 119 such incomplete irrigation schemes in the state. We told him that the government can provide 25 per cent grant to the state and the rest 75 per cent could be managed with loan. We told him that Maharashtra was financially and logistically a capable state and it would be able to handle this kind of an arrangement and repay the loans in time. The PM went out of the way to approve the project and so far we have been able to complete at least 80 of the incomplete projects. Today in case a drought strikes us, we will be able to sustain and stave off any largescale tragedy as we have been able to set up ample water storage facility now. It call came through because of the alacrity and involvement of PM Modi.

Surprised by Modi ji’s warmth and camaraderie - Dilip Joshi, Actor

The serial Taarak Mehta ka Ooltah Chashmah was at its peak in 2008 as it hit homes across India that year. It was in 2019, a year after the sop had become a TV rage, that a small event was organised in Ahmedabad by the writer of the story in which Modi ji was invited as chief guest. A book by the author was to be launched by then state CM Narendra Modi, and he was supposed to be there in attendance for only a few minutes. We actors were set to perform an act for 40-45 minutes on stage. But Modi ji, once he arrived, became a part of the Taarak Mehta family and mingled with all of us like our very own. He stayed on for quite some time, beyond his schedule, just to be with us and share his warmth and camaraderie. About two years later, in 2011, I had another opportunity to meet Modi ji in Ahmedabad. The event was Sadbhavna Mission and we were to meet him on stage by turn. In the meantime, I had shed some weight in those two years. As soon as I was in front of him, he recognised me immediately and said, ‘Arre Jethalal, wajan ochu karu che?’ (hey Jethalal, are you losing weight?) I was surprised by this remark. How could a man, who meets lakhs of people daily and remains occupied with so much work, remember what I was like two years back? He could instantly recall that I was plumpier in 2009 and had reduced some extra flab by 2011. This is remarkable and shows not only his sharp memory but also the depth and sincerity of his warmth and camaraderie despite being such a busy leader.

COMPILED AND EDITED BY SHASHIKANT SHARMA

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Daily Astro

04-04-2025

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Libra

Ganesha says today will be a very auspicious and positive day. You will get a chance to clarify your thoughts, which will bring stability to your personal and professional relationships. Your communication skills will increase, and this will open the doors of new possibilities for you. Your creativity and aesthetic sense will be especially strong today. If you are associated with any art or design, your work will be appreciated. This is the right time to express your feelings. If you are confused about a decision, trust your intuition; it will show you the right path. In terms of health, small changes can make your life better. Focus on regular exercise and a balanced diet. In love and relationships, a new understanding will develop, which will strengthen the mutual bond even more. Overall, this day is a sign of positive changes and new beginnings for you. Stay focused on your goals and recognize your inner strengths.

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Virgo

Ganesha says today is a suitable day to highlight your cognitive abilities and business skills. Today, you will be full of clarity and precision in your actions, which will increase your value among your colleagues and superiors. There is a possibility of bringing some changes to your routine, which will bring positive results for you. This is a good time to improve relations with family members. Try to resolve any old disputes, and keep communication open. In terms of health, meditation and yoga will bring mental peace. Also, take some time out of your routine for exercise. From a financial point of view, this is the right time to make a good plan for the right investment. Take a good look at the options available to you and make a wise decision. Overall, today will prove to be a day of new possibilities and positive changes for you. Be full of confidence and stay focused on your goals.

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Leo

Ganesha says today will be a day full of energy and inspiration. Your confidence will increase and your thoughts will come out with clarity. On this day, you will be able to see some new possibilities in your career, which will bring you hard work. Mutual understanding and harmony will increase your relationship, which will create a happy atmosphere among the family. This is a great time to express your thoughts clearly, so do not hesitate to communicate with your partner or friends. It is important to be health conscious, a little exercise and meditation will maintain your mental and physical health. Overall, this day will bring activity and positivity for you, so make the most of all the opportunities!

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Cancer

Ganesha says it will be a day of information and communication for you. Your mind will be full of ideas and you will be able to express your ideas well. There is a possibility of some new opportunities in professional life, which can prove beneficial for you. It is a good time to strengthen relationships with your colleagues, so work together at the workplace. Your emotional state will also be strong. Time spent with family will give you satisfaction. If you have any old problem going on, then the right time is coming to solve it. However, you need to keep your emotions under control, so that you do not get agitated over small things. In terms of health, try to practice yoga and meditation. It will empower you both mentally and physically. Take informed decisions in financial matters; do not rush into any investments. In summary, this day will be all about communication and cooperation, which will lead to positive changes for you.

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Gemini

Ganesha says there will be a new energy and freshness in your thoughts, which will make your personality even more attractive. Social contacts are likely to increase, which will expand your network. You will be inspired to spend blissful time with your friends and family. Some positive changes can also be seen in the business sector. The results of your hard work will gradually start coming, and this will motivate you to move forward. Keep in mind that while sharing your ideology, work with empathy, this will strengthen your relationship with colleagues. It is important to be health conscious. A little attention and relaxation will give you mental freshness. Practicing yoga or meditation will be beneficial for you. This day will be full of positivity and new possibilities for you. Express your mind openly and do not hesitate to adopt new ideas.

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Taurus

Ganesha says it will prove to be a positive day for you, Taurus. You will feel energetic and full of confidence. The time has come to reap the fruits of your hard work and efforts. The workload may stress you for a while, but you will face all the challenges recognizing your strengths. Sweetness will also remain in your relationships. Spending time with your family and friends will be a source of joy for you. Conversation with someone special can give you a new vision and promote mutual understanding. A special occasion may be organized among friends or family, which will bring happiness and harmony to you. Moments spent with loved ones will give you mental peace. It is important to be health conscious. A little exercise or yoga will give peace to your mind and energy to your body. Your day will be full of happiness and positivity, just keep your thoughts and emotions balanced.

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Aries

Ganesha says it will be an important day for you, Aries. Your energy and confidence are ready to take you to new heights. Today you will be able to express your thoughts with clarity, which will increase your communication skills. New opportunities may arise in the working areas, which you have to be ready to take advantage of. In social life, you can make new meetings, which will prove beneficial for you in the future. This day will be good for solving family issues, and you will be able to establish better relations with your close ones. In the field of health, take care of your routine and resort to yoga or meditation to relieve mental stress. Controlling your expenses will be a smart move, as any sudden financial need may arise. Overall, this day is for you to stay positive, just use your insight and energy properly.

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Pisces

Ganesha says it is going to be a positive day for you. Your sensitivity and intuition will flourish today, allowing you to establish better connections between yourself and others. It is time to connect with someone or refresh old memories. Try to communicate with people close to you, as it will strengthen your relationships. In the field of work, your creativity will be cyclical today. If you are working on a project, your ideas will be new and full of innovation. Do not be afraid to share your ideas, it will give you positive feedback from your colleagues. In terms of financial condition, avoid any big investments. Small expenses will prove to be justified but think well before making any big decisions for the long term. In terms of health, focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise. For mental health, practicing meditation or yoga will help keep you stress-free.

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Aquarius

Ganesha says new opportunities are likely to open up for you. You will be in a position to take your creative abilities to new heights. This is the time to share your ideas and make new plans. Your friends and family will support your ideas, so it will be beneficial to take their advice into account. Positive changes are possible in business. This is the right time to work on an important project. You will get an opportunity to use your skills and knowledge properly. But, be careful; in some cases, you will need to control your emotions. In personal life, relationships will deepen. You will try to spend more time with your loved ones. This is a good time for love and companionship. Enjoy emotional moments that will make your relationships stronger. Be health conscious. Dedication to yoga and meditation will give you mental peace. These activities will keep not only your body but also your mind active. Overall, today will be full of possibilities for you. Stay committed to your dreams and work on them.

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Capricorn

Ganesha says your day is full of some new possibilities. You will experience grace and stability in your actions. This is the time to focus on your goals and work with determination to pursue your plans. You are likely to get success in your work, especially if you maintain your hard work and dedication. Positive changes can also be seen in your relationships. You will get a chance to spend time with family and listen to them, which will increase mutual understanding and depth. Focus on communication, as it will make your relationships stronger. However, it is also time to make monthly plans. Take care of your financial matters and try to save. This is the time when you can take concrete steps for your future. Your health condition is likely to remain normal but take some rest. Maintaining a mental balance will be important for you. Stay positive and keep faith in your actions!

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Sagittarius

Ganesha says today will be full of new possibilities and positive energy for you. You will feel a rise in your confidence, which will keep you open to new opportunities. This is the right time to make an important decision. Your spirituality and intuition will be strong, which will enable you to understand and face difficulties. Spending time with friends and family will awaken a sense of happiness and satisfaction in your mind. Relationships with colleagues at work can take a new direction. Cooperation and communication will help solve problems. If you face an obstacle or challenge, remember that you can overcome it. In terms of health, you may need to make a little improvement in your routine. Regular exercise and a balanced diet will give you freshness and energy. Strengthening social relationships and contacting new people will also be beneficial today. This is the time for self-growth and positive change for you, so recognize the energy within you and use it properly.

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Scorpio

Ganesha says today will be full of enthusiasm and energy. You will move towards achieving your goals, and your hard work will pay off. Social life will also be active; you will get a good chance to spend time with friends and family. In terms of health, take a little caution. Focusing on meditation and exercise will help reduce mental stress. This is also a good time to take up a new hobby, which can unleash your creativity. Take wise steps in terms of money. Make informed decisions while investing. For potential financial gains, take a look at past projects again. Your career is showing good signs of progress. Your ideas may be appreciated at the workplace, which will increase your confidence. Still, some issues may require restraint. Overall, today will prove to be positive and auspicious for you. Spend it with pride with your loved ones.

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Libra

Ganesha says today will be a very auspicious and positive day. You will get a chance to clarify your thoughts, which will bring stability to your personal and professional relationships. Your communication skills will increase, and this will open the doors of new possibilities for you. Your creativity and aesthetic sense will be especially strong today. If you are associated with any art or design, your work will be appreciated. This is the right time to express your feelings. If you are confused about a decision, trust your intuition; it will show you the right path. In terms of health, small changes can make your life better. Focus on regular exercise and a balanced diet. In love and relationships, a new understanding will develop, which will strengthen the mutual bond even more. Overall, this day is a sign of positive changes and new beginnings for you. Stay focused on your goals and recognize your inner strengths.

image

Virgo

Ganesha says today is a suitable day to highlight your cognitive abilities and business skills. Today, you will be full of clarity and precision in your actions, which will increase your value among your colleagues and superiors. There is a possibility of bringing some changes to your routine, which will bring positive results for you. This is a good time to improve relations with family members. Try to resolve any old disputes, and keep communication open. In terms of health, meditation and yoga will bring mental peace. Also, take some time out of your routine for exercise. From a financial point of view, this is the right time to make a good plan for the right investment. Take a good look at the options available to you and make a wise decision. Overall, today will prove to be a day of new possibilities and positive changes for you. Be full of confidence and stay focused on your goals.

image

Leo

Ganesha says today will be a day full of energy and inspiration. Your confidence will increase and your thoughts will come out with clarity. On this day, you will be able to see some new possibilities in your career, which will bring you hard work. Mutual understanding and harmony will increase your relationship, which will create a happy atmosphere among the family. This is a great time to express your thoughts clearly, so do not hesitate to communicate with your partner or friends. It is important to be health conscious, a little exercise and meditation will maintain your mental and physical health. Overall, this day will bring activity and positivity for you, so make the most of all the opportunities!

image

Cancer

Ganesha says it will be a day of information and communication for you. Your mind will be full of ideas and you will be able to express your ideas well. There is a possibility of some new opportunities in professional life, which can prove beneficial for you. It is a good time to strengthen relationships with your colleagues, so work together at the workplace. Your emotional state will also be strong. Time spent with family will give you satisfaction. If you have any old problem going on, then the right time is coming to solve it. However, you need to keep your emotions under control, so that you do not get agitated over small things. In terms of health, try to practice yoga and meditation. It will empower you both mentally and physically. Take informed decisions in financial matters; do not rush into any investments. In summary, this day will be all about communication and cooperation, which will lead to positive changes for you.

image

Gemini

Ganesha says there will be a new energy and freshness in your thoughts, which will make your personality even more attractive. Social contacts are likely to increase, which will expand your network. You will be inspired to spend blissful time with your friends and family. Some positive changes can also be seen in the business sector. The results of your hard work will gradually start coming, and this will motivate you to move forward. Keep in mind that while sharing your ideology, work with empathy, this will strengthen your relationship with colleagues. It is important to be health conscious. A little attention and relaxation will give you mental freshness. Practicing yoga or meditation will be beneficial for you. This day will be full of positivity and new possibilities for you. Express your mind openly and do not hesitate to adopt new ideas.

image

Taurus

Ganesha says it will prove to be a positive day for you, Taurus. You will feel energetic and full of confidence. The time has come to reap the fruits of your hard work and efforts. The workload may stress you for a while, but you will face all the challenges recognizing your strengths. Sweetness will also remain in your relationships. Spending time with your family and friends will be a source of joy for you. Conversation with someone special can give you a new vision and promote mutual understanding. A special occasion may be organized among friends or family, which will bring happiness and harmony to you. Moments spent with loved ones will give you mental peace. It is important to be health conscious. A little exercise or yoga will give peace to your mind and energy to your body. Your day will be full of happiness and positivity, just keep your thoughts and emotions balanced.

image

Aries

Ganesha says it will be an important day for you, Aries. Your energy and confidence are ready to take you to new heights. Today you will be able to express your thoughts with clarity, which will increase your communication skills. New opportunities may arise in the working areas, which you have to be ready to take advantage of. In social life, you can make new meetings, which will prove beneficial for you in the future. This day will be good for solving family issues, and you will be able to establish better relations with your close ones. In the field of health, take care of your routine and resort to yoga or meditation to relieve mental stress. Controlling your expenses will be a smart move, as any sudden financial need may arise. Overall, this day is for you to stay positive, just use your insight and energy properly.

image

Pisces

Ganesha says it is going to be a positive day for you. Your sensitivity and intuition will flourish today, allowing you to establish better connections between yourself and others. It is time to connect with someone or refresh old memories. Try to communicate with people close to you, as it will strengthen your relationships. In the field of work, your creativity will be cyclical today. If you are working on a project, your ideas will be new and full of innovation. Do not be afraid to share your ideas, it will give you positive feedback from your colleagues. In terms of financial condition, avoid any big investments. Small expenses will prove to be justified but think well before making any big decisions for the long term. In terms of health, focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise. For mental health, practicing meditation or yoga will help keep you stress-free.

image

Aquarius

Ganesha says new opportunities are likely to open up for you. You will be in a position to take your creative abilities to new heights. This is the time to share your ideas and make new plans. Your friends and family will support your ideas, so it will be beneficial to take their advice into account. Positive changes are possible in business. This is the right time to work on an important project. You will get an opportunity to use your skills and knowledge properly. But, be careful; in some cases, you will need to control your emotions. In personal life, relationships will deepen. You will try to spend more time with your loved ones. This is a good time for love and companionship. Enjoy emotional moments that will make your relationships stronger. Be health conscious. Dedication to yoga and meditation will give you mental peace. These activities will keep not only your body but also your mind active. Overall, today will be full of possibilities for you. Stay committed to your dreams and work on them.

image

Capricorn

Ganesha says your day is full of some new possibilities. You will experience grace and stability in your actions. This is the time to focus on your goals and work with determination to pursue your plans. You are likely to get success in your work, especially if you maintain your hard work and dedication. Positive changes can also be seen in your relationships. You will get a chance to spend time with family and listen to them, which will increase mutual understanding and depth. Focus on communication, as it will make your relationships stronger. However, it is also time to make monthly plans. Take care of your financial matters and try to save. This is the time when you can take concrete steps for your future. Your health condition is likely to remain normal but take some rest. Maintaining a mental balance will be important for you. Stay positive and keep faith in your actions!

image

Sagittarius

Ganesha says today will be full of new possibilities and positive energy for you. You will feel a rise in your confidence, which will keep you open to new opportunities. This is the right time to make an important decision. Your spirituality and intuition will be strong, which will enable you to understand and face difficulties. Spending time with friends and family will awaken a sense of happiness and satisfaction in your mind. Relationships with colleagues at work can take a new direction. Cooperation and communication will help solve problems. If you face an obstacle or challenge, remember that you can overcome it. In terms of health, you may need to make a little improvement in your routine. Regular exercise and a balanced diet will give you freshness and energy. Strengthening social relationships and contacting new people will also be beneficial today. This is the time for self-growth and positive change for you, so recognize the energy within you and use it properly.

image

Scorpio

Ganesha says today will be full of enthusiasm and energy. You will move towards achieving your goals, and your hard work will pay off. Social life will also be active; you will get a good chance to spend time with friends and family. In terms of health, take a little caution. Focusing on meditation and exercise will help reduce mental stress. This is also a good time to take up a new hobby, which can unleash your creativity. Take wise steps in terms of money. Make informed decisions while investing. For potential financial gains, take a look at past projects again. Your career is showing good signs of progress. Your ideas may be appreciated at the workplace, which will increase your confidence. Still, some issues may require restraint. Overall, today will prove to be positive and auspicious for you. Spend it with pride with your loved ones.