NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday inaugurated the first edition of the School of Ultimate Leadership (SOUL) Conclave at Bharat Mandapam and elaborated on the need for dynamic leaders to accelerate India’s progress in all fields.
Addressing the gathering, PM Modi emphasised that India’s emergence as a global powerhouse requires strong leadership in governance, business, policymaking, and beyond. “
Today, India is emerging as a global power. To accelerate this pace in all fields, we need world-class leaders… Today, India needs dynamic leaders in all fields who can find solutions to global complexities and keep national interest at the forefront while solving problems,” PM Modi said.
He underlined that achieving ‘Viksit Bharat’ (developed India) is possible only when leadership in every sector is strengthened. “We have to make our governance and policy-making world-class. This will be possible only when our policymakers, bureaucrats, and entrepreneurs formulate policies by connecting with the global base system,” he said.
Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay, who also attended the event, praised SOUL as the “brainchild” of PM Modi and a testament to his commitment to nurturing future leaders.
Calling PM Modi his “mentor and elder brother,” Tobgay said, “Every time I meet you, I am inspired to work even harder as a public servant.” He also lauded Modi’s leadership, stating, “In just 10 years, you have put India on the path of progress with your wisdom, courage, and compassionate leadership.”
Vision for India’s leadership
At the event, PM Modi spoke about India’s growing influence on the global stage and the need for leadership that aligns with international standards. “If we have to make ‘Viksit Bharat’, then we will have to move ahead in all areas… We will not only have to aspire for excellence but also achieve it,” he said.
He also stressed that the youth must be equipped with the right skills and knowledge to lead. “There is a huge scope in the School of Ultimate Leadership to establish the leadership of the 21st century. I am hopeful that great leaders will emerge from SOUL who will lead in various fields… Human resources play a major role in the development of a nation.”
PM Modi expressed confidence that SOUL will play a crucial role in shaping India’s future. “The large campus of the School of Ultimate Leadership (SOUL) will be ready very shortly,” he added.
What is SOUL?
It is an upcoming leadership institution in Gujarat that aims to train future leaders based on merit, commitment and passion for public service rather than political lineage.
The SOUL Conclave is designed as a platform where leaders from politics, sports, business, arts, media and public policy share their insights and experiences.
PM Modi also touched upon the institution’s importance in nation-building. “The development of citizens is very important for nation-building… The development of leaders in various fields is very important. The establishment of the School of Ultimate Leadership (SOUL) is an important step towards the journey of ‘Viksit Bharat’,” PM said.
The SOUL campus, currently under construction in Gandhinagar, will be spread over 22 acres near Gujarat Biotechnology University on GIFT City Road.
It is expected to be completed in two years at an estimated cost of Rs 150 crore.