PM Modi Reaches Out to Jagan, Promises Help for Andhra's Development

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday asserted that the BJP would meet the expectations of 130 crore Indians in the next five years and win their hearts by taking up massive welfare programmes, even as he made efforts to reach out to new Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy.

The PM, who was in Sri Lanka earlier in the day, reached Tirupati from Colombo and addressed a ‘vijayotsava sabha’ (thanksgiving rally) of BJP workers at the temple town.

Modi, who recently took over as the prime minister for a second term following a landslide victory, started his speech by praying to Lord Venkateshwara — ‘Balaji Padala Sakshiga’ (in the presence of holy feet of Lord Venkateshwara). He then thanked the people of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu for their support to democracy.

“Given the huge mandate we got, some people think expectations and aspirations (on the government) have increased. They also wonder what can Modi do. We should see it as a great opportunity. I see it as a guarantee for a brighter India,” the Prime Minister said.

Stating that he had confidence in 130 crore Indians, Modi said “With their contribution and support, I am confident we can give a new direction to the country.”

Two good occasions beckoned the country in the near future, he said, referring to the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi in October 2019 and the 75th anniversary of the nation's Independence in 2022.

“If everyone takes one step forward, the country too will go that many steps ahead," Modi said, adding that the Centre and states should work together towards this and create a New India.

Noting that strong governments were formed at the Centre as well as in Andhra Pradesh, the Prime Minister wished the state would surge ahead on the development path under Reddy’s leadership.

“AP has infinite possibilities for growth. We will fully extend all co-operation from the Centre for the development of the state," the Prime Minister said.

Taking an indirect dig at Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Modi said some people were yet to come out of the election hangover.

“For us, it is over. Our focus now is entirely on development and people's welfare,” he added.

Soon after, he offered his prayers at the Balaji temple where he was accompanied by the chief minister. He was given a traditional welcome by priests.