In a fascinating three-hour interview with AI scientist and podcaster Lex Fridman, Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his views on leadership, diplomacy, and self-discipline. This was his second podcast this year, having been interviewed by Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath in January.
PM Modi emphasized that his strength is derived from the collective identity of India. “My strength is not in my name, but in the support of 1.4 billion Indians and thousands of years of eternal culture and heritage. When I extend a hand to a world leader, it’s not Modi, but 1.4 billion Indians extending their hand,” he added.
He also underlined India’s leadership in global peace. “India is the home of Buddha and Gandhi. We do not believe in war; we believe in harmony. Wherever we can become peacemakers, we accept that role,” he further stated.
PM Modi on Donald Trump and His 2024 Campaign
When probed regarding his meetings with leaders of the world, including Elon Musk, JD Vance, Tulsi Gabbard, and Vivek Ramaswamy, PM Modi elaborated about former U.S. President Donald Trump.
“I have seen President Trump during his first term and now during his second term. This time, he appears much better prepared than the first time. He has a roadmap in his mind with clearly outlined steps, each one aimed at taking him to his destination,” Modi said.
He commended Trump’s capacity to build a robust team. “I also got to sit down with members of his team, and I believe he assembled a strong, talented group. With such a robust team, I think they are more than capable of executing President Trump’s vision based on my dealings with them,” he added.
A Warm Meeting with Global Leaders
PM Modi also reminisced about his interactions with other powerful individuals during his trip to the United States, describing the environment as family-like and interactive.
“I had met a few people—Tulsi Gabbard, Vivek Ramaswamy, Elon Musk—and there was a very familial atmosphere. People had come with their families. As far as Elon Musk is concerned, I have known him during my chief minister days. He had come with his family and children, so of course, the atmosphere was warm and cordial,” he added.
Talking about Musk’s interest in space travel, Modi said, “Of course, we discussed and spoke on many various subjects. Now, with his DOGE mission, he is extremely enthusiastic about the way it’s going, and sincerely, it pleases me as well.”
Modi on Enhancing India’s Global Standing
PM Modi also spoke about India’s increasing prominence in international conversations, commenting on the immense change since 2014 when he became Prime Minister.
“When I came into office in 2014, I wanted to emancipate my nation from the long-standing problems and damaging traditions which had insidiously taken hold, and I will keep trying to eradicate as many of them as I can. For instance, I noticed that at the time, we were not included in most international conversations. Unlike the way President Trump and DOGE are being discussed these days,” he clarified.
He emphasized the wastage of the past welfare programs by saying, “The rewards of some schemes by the government, particularly the welfare programs, were being reaped by so many individuals who never even existed in actual life.”
With the discussion at a close, PM Modi reaffirmed his vision to project India further in the global forum while maintaining loyalty to domestic growth and international diplomatic relations.