Porbandar: Arjun Modhwadia, Former senior Congress leader and Porbandar MLA, who joined BJP in March this year, today shared a facet of Narendra Modi’s leadership style while calling him a true democrat. Modhwadia acknowledged that Modi not only values everyone’s opinion but also makes sincere efforts to fulfill them.

Reflecting on his personal experience, Modhwadia recounted how PM Modi honored a commitment made years ago, even after assuming the role of Prime Minister.

“I was the Leader of the Opposition, and I used to present my stand. Most of the time, Modi ji used to accommodate my stand. He used to say that when you speak from the opposition, our government notes it down and tries to implement these ideas,” said Modhwadia.

Talking about Porbandar Airport, Modhwadia recalled, “During the inauguration of the new terminal building of Porbandar airport, then Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel was present. Modi was presiding as CM, and I was there as the local MLA and Leader of the Opposition. At that time, I pointed out that its landing strip was only 1,300 meters long, making it unsuitable for large aircraft. I requested an extension to 2,600 meters. Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel inquired if Narendra Modi, then Gujarat CM, allocated land for the extension, he would approve the project,” Modhwadia shared.

Modhwadia recalled how PM Modi, as Gujarat CM at the time, promptly directed the concerned District Magistrate to prepare a report and forward it to the Union Aviation Ministry.

“However, after 2012, when I was no longer an MLA and Modi ji became Prime Minister, the project was put on hold, and the land was allocated to the coast guard. However, upon my request to then CM Vijay Rupani, who informed PM Modi of his public commitment to extend the airstrip, PM Modi immediately approved the project. PM Modi honored his word and endorsed the project, even though it was proposed by the Leader of the Opposition, just a message which shows he has a big heart,” Modhwadia added.