Modi Understood Power Of Tech, Introduced Email Culture In BJP—Shivraj Chouhan At His Book Launch

Chouhan Highlights Modi’s Vision for Technology at Book Launch

During the launch of his book, ‘Apnapan: My Experiences With Narendra Modi,’ Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan reflected on Prime Minister Modi's foresight in embracing technology within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). In a gathering in New Delhi, Chouhan recounted how traditional approaches dominated the party's early days, leaving little room for technological advancement.

Chouhan recalled a pivotal moment when Modi, then in charge of the party, asked a seemingly simple question: "Who among you has an email ID?" His inquiry was met with silence, as most attendees had little experience with email. Chouhan noted, “People looked at each other’s faces in silence,” illustrating the hesitation around adopting new technology. Babulal Gaur, a senior leader, humorously remarked, “Narendra Bhai, what is this ‘female-female’ you are talking about? What will happen with this female-email?” This elicited laughter, but Modi remained undeterred, emphasizing the critical role of technology in shaping India's future.

Chouhan underscored Modi's ability to recognize early on that technology would be essential for India's progress. “He understood much earlier than others that if India’s future had to be shaped and if a developed India was to be built, then technology would play a crucial role,” he stated, highlighting Modi's visionary approach.

Additionally, Chouhan reminisced about Modi's significant contribution to the Ekta Yatra, which aimed to hoist the national flag at Lal Chowk in Srinagar during a time of intense terrorism. “No one could have imagined hoisting the tricolour in the Kashmir Valley,” he said, recounting how Modi's leadership was pivotal during this historic moment. He recalled Modi's vision of not just raising the flag but instilling patriotism across the nation, asserting that “the tricolour should fly in the hearts of every citizen of the country.”

The book launch drew a notable crowd, including Union ministers and chief ministers from BJP-ruled states, reflecting the importance of Chouhan's experiences with Modi as they continue to shape the party's narrative.