Former Tripura CM Biplab Deb credits PM Modi’s advice for transforming his decision-making approach, while current CM Manik Saha calls Modi his political mentor. Both leaders share how Modi’s guidance shaped their political journeys ahead of his 75th birthday.
Former Tripura Chief Minister and sitting Lok Sabha MP Biplab Kumar Deb on Tuesday reflected on how a single piece of advice from Prime Minister Narendra Modi transformed his approach to politics and life. Sharing his thoughts in a video message, Deb emphasized that “one sentence, one lesson, can bring a positive change in life.”
Recalling his tenure as the Chief Minister of Tripura, Deb explained that his interactions with Prime Minister Modi were often filled with valuable guidance. He narrated a particular instance when the Prime Minister questioned him about his decision-making process. “Once he asked me if I would consult anyone before deciding. I replied no. Then he said you must find someone with whom you can discuss before making any decision. Today, looking back, I understand — one sentence, one lesson, can bring positive change in life,” Deb said.
According to Deb, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of consulting a knowledgeable and trustworthy individual before taking important decisions. This person, Modi had suggested, could be a political figure, an academic, a religious leader, or anyone reliable who had no vested interest. “This lesson has stayed with me. It taught me the value of perspective and the importance of seeking advice before arriving at a conclusion,” Deb added.
The BJP leader also acknowledged that during his stint as the Chief Minister, he frequently consulted Prime Minister Modi on matters of governance, administration, and party-related affairs. Deb credited Modi’s mentorship for shaping his political journey and strengthening his leadership style.
A turning point in Tripura’s politics
Biplab Kumar Deb holds a unique place in Tripura’s political history. Under his leadership, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came to power in the state for the first time in 2018, ending 25 years of Left Front rule led by the Communist Party of India (Marxist). This victory not only marked a turning point in the state’s politics but also boosted the BJP’s influence in the northeastern region.
However, in May 2022, Deb stepped down from the Chief Minister’s post as per the direction of the BJP’s central leadership. Following his resignation, Dr. Manik Saha was appointed as the Chief Minister. Despite stepping down, Deb continued to play an active role in national politics and was later elected as a Member of Parliament to the Lok Sabha.
In March 2023, under the leadership of Manik Saha, the BJP-led coalition retained power in Tripura for a second consecutive term, further consolidating the party’s position in the state.
Modi as a political mentor
The remarks from Biplab Kumar Deb come at a time when the BJP is running the campaign ‘My Modi Story’ ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 75th birthday on Wednesday. The campaign features ministers, party leaders, and citizens sharing personal anecdotes about Modi’s leadership style, discipline, and innovative ideas.
Tripura’s current Chief Minister, Dr. Manik Saha, also paid tribute to Prime Minister Modi’s influence on his own political journey. A dental surgeon-turned-politician, Saha openly describes Modi as his political mentor. “Prime Minister Narendra Modi is my only inspiration to join the BJP and active politics. If anyone asks me who my political Guru is, I will boldly say Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” Saha remarked recently.
He further elaborated that he had entered politics by observing Modi’s leadership qualities and was constantly inspired by his vision for the country. “I always seek his blessings,” Saha said, acknowledging the Prime Minister’s role in shaping his career.
A legacy of guidance and leadership
Both Biplab Kumar Deb and Manik Saha’s reflections underscore the profound impact Prime Minister Narendra Modi has had on the political landscape of Tripura. For Deb, it was a sentence about consulting trusted advisors that reshaped his way of thinking and decision-making. For Saha, it was Modi’s leadership and commitment to public service that inspired him to leave his professional career and join politics.
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As the BJP gears up to celebrate Prime Minister Modi’s 75th birthday, such anecdotes highlight not only his influence as a national leader but also as a mentor who has personally guided and inspired several party leaders. His ability to connect individually while driving a broader vision for governance continues to resonate deeply within the party ranks.
