He said the media played an important role in keeping democracy vibrant and added that “nothing is impossible in journalism”.

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday recalled how a group of journalists once informed him that he had become the chief minister of Gujarat, asking him to distribute sweets. Addressing journalists at the BJP headquarters, PM Modi said only a few senior party leaders were aware of the development when a group of journalists walked into his room and told him, “You are the CM of Gujarat now, mithai khilao. ” Recalling his journey with the media, PM Modi said he had witnessed its transformation from the days of press releases to the present era of Instagram reels. He also remembered his early days when he would arrange chairs at similar gatherings. PM Modi praised journalists for their role in keeping democracy vibrant, saying, “A vast diversity of thought sustains our democracy and keeps it vibrant—a process in which the Indian media plays a truly vital role.” Highlighting the dedication of field reporters, he said they often head towards disaster sites when others are moving away. “When a disaster strikes—be it an accident, an earthquake, or a devastating flood—while the rest of the world might flee from the scene, our field reporters head straight toward it... Such dedication is rare, and I have always held it in the highest regard,” he said.

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The prime minister also urged media organisations to highlight India's achievements and success stories, saying that considerable work was already being done in this regard. He called on journalists to spread awareness about the fight against drug abuse. Referring to India's ambition of becoming a developed nation by 2047, PM Modi drew a parallel with the importance of deadlines in journalism. He also thanked journalists for attending the gathering despite their busy schedules during the festive season, describing it as a “non-breaking news event”. The event was hosted by BJP president Nitin Nabin and attended by Union home minister Amit Shah, defence minister Rajnath Singh and health minister JP Nadda.

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