On June 30, Prime Minister Narendra Modi released three books chronicling the life and journey of former Vice President of India, M. Venkaiah Naidu, via video conferencing. The event took place at Anvaya Convention Centre in Gachibowli, Hyderabad, on the eve of Naidu's 75th birthday.
The three books are:
1. "Venkaiah Naidu: Life in Service" – A biography by S. Nagesh Kumar, former Resident Editor of The Hindu, Hyderabad edition.
2. "Celebrating Bharat: The Mission and Message of Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu as 13th Vice-President of India"** – A photo chronicle compiled by Dr. I.V. Subba Rao, former Secretary to the Vice-President.
3. "Mahaneta: Life and Journey of Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu" – A pictorial biography in Telugu by Sanjay Kishore.
Prime Minister Modi praised Naidu’s life as extraordinary, filled with significant milestones. He expressed hope that these books would inspire people and provide guidance on serving the nation. Reflecting on his long association with Naidu, Modi shared how they worked together from Naidu’s time as BJP national president, through his roles in the Cabinet, as Vice President, and as Speaker of the Rajya Sabha.
Modi described Naidu’s life as a blend of ideas, vision, and personality. He emphasized that power is a means to achieve resolutions through service, noting Naidu’s dedication during his tenure as Union Minister for Rural Development in the Vajpayee government.
The Prime Minister fondly recalled Naidu's wit and eloquence, highlighting his memorable slogan during the formation of Vajpayee’s coalition government: "Ek haath mein BJP ka jhanda, aur dusre haath mein NDA ka agenda" (One hand holds the BJP flag, the other the NDA agenda).
In 2014, Naidu coined the acronym ‘Making of Developed India’ (M.O.D.I.), impressing Modi with his insights. Modi commended Naidu's leadership in the Rajya Sabha, particularly during the introduction and passage of the bill to revoke Article 370.
Modi also shed light on Naidu’s emotional side, noting his resilience and simplicity. He emphasized Naidu’s efforts to stay connected with people and his significant contributions to Indian politics. As Rural Development Minister under Vajpayee, Naidu focused on serving villages, the poor, and farmers.
Later, as Union Minister for Urban Development in Modi’s first government, he played a key role in initiatives like the Swachh Bharat Mission, the Smart City Mission, and the AMRUT Yojana.
Prime Minister Modi wished Naidu a long, active, and healthy life and reiterated that the newly released books encapsulate Naidu's inspiring journey, offering valuable lessons for future generations.