Twenty-Five Years of Public Service: A Journey from India to the World
Tashkent Times is an English language online-newspaper that brings all latest Uzbekistan news
**Twenty-Five Years of Public Service: A Journey from India to the World**
On 7 October 2026, India will observe an important milestone: 25 years of Shri Narendra Modi ji’s uninterrupted journey in public service. From taking office as Chief Minister of Gujarat on 7 October 2001 to becoming the Prime Minister of India, his 25 years in public life have unfolded alongside a period of major transformation in India and in the country’s ties with the world.
As an Indian living abroad and a recipient of the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award 2023, I have had the opportunity to witness India’s change not only from within the country, but also through the lens of the global Indian community. For millions of Indians overseas, India’s advancement is closely linked to our own identity, confidence and sense of belonging.
One of the most noticeable features of this journey has been India’s deepening engagement with the international community. Today, the Indian diaspora increasingly views itself not just as a community outside India, but as a vital bridge between India and the countries where we live. This is especially evident in India–Uzbekistan relations, which are rooted in deep historical and civilizational connections. As Chairman of the Indian Community in Uzbekistan, I have personally seen the warmth between our two countries.
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji has visited Uzbekistan four times—in 2015, 2016, 2022 and most recently in August 2026. His latest visit was particularly historic. During the visit, India and Uzbekistan upgraded their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with broader cooperation in trade, investment, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, education, digital technology, energy, critical minerals, tourism and culture.
The honour conferred on Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji by President of Uzbekistan His Excellency Mr. Shavkat Mirziyoyev during this visit was also deeply significant. He was awarded the Order of Oliy Darajali Dustlik, the highest state award of Uzbekistan, in recognition of his role in strengthening the bonds of friendship between the peoples of India and Uzbekistan. For the Indian community in Uzbekistan, this was a proud and memorable occasion. The Indian community In Uzbekistan is committed to playing a positive role in further strengthening India -Uzbekistan friendship.
Equally important in the India Uzbekistan growth story is the focus on environmental sustainability. Prime Minister Shri Modi Ji’s “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative has struck a chord with people across India. During his most recent Uzbekistan visit, this vision found a natural counterpart in Uzbekistan’s “Yashil Makon”—a green initiative designed to expand the country’s environmental and afforestation efforts. To me, this means more than a tree. It stands for a shared commitment to a healthier planet and a better future for our children. For this reason, Indian community & businesses have come forward to plant 35000 trees in Uzbekistan.
The last 12 years under leadership of Shri Narendra Modi have also seen India’s growing global footprint—in diplomacy, technology, infrastructure, digital public services, entrepreneurship, space, healthcare and many other areas. I extend our congratulations to Honourable Prime Minister of India and also hope that India & Uzbekistan ties continue to grow from strength to strength towards a better future & greater prosperity.