New Delhi, August 12, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday urged young people to draw inspiration from the lives of accomplished personalities and read their autobiographies rather than pursue shortcuts to success.
Modi was speaking at an event at Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi, where he released former President Ram Nath Kovind’s autobiography, Triumph of the Indian Republic: My Life, My Struggles.
The Prime Minister described Kovind’s life as an example of how a person from a humble background can overcome adversity and contribute to nation-building. He said Kovind’s journey reflected the vision of an India where people from the poorest and most deprived sections can aspire to reach the highest positions.
Modi urged young people to learn from Kovind’s perseverance and ability to confront difficulties without giving up.
“We want the youth of the country to take inspiration from Kovind ji, who are not defeated by problems, but those who have the courage to make the work easier,” he said.
Warning against the growing influence of social media trends and a culture of instant success, Modi said young people should not allow the pursuit of shortcuts to overshadow hard work and perseverance.
“It’s the age of reels, social media influencers take you away, but in this age of shortcuts, we must remember one thing written on railway stations — ‘Shortcuts will cut you short’,” he said.
The Prime Minister encouraged young people to read the autobiography of anyone they admire, saying such books provide a personal perspective on historical events and bring readers closer to the period in which their subjects lived.
He said Kovind’s autobiography contains detailed accounts of his experiences with former Prime Minister Morarji Desai and offers insights into how those experiences shaped his approach to public life and politics.
Modi said Kovind’s journey also carried important lessons for people from economically weaker and socially disadvantaged backgrounds. He highlighted the former President’s simplicity, honesty, perseverance and commitment to public service.
“Kovind ji has done this work for all of us because there is so much in his life where many people coming from poor and deprived backgrounds can see the shadow of their own lives,” he said.
The Prime Minister also praised Kovind for continuing to engage with issues of national importance after completing his tenure as President, including the “One Nation, One Election” initiative.
Modi said Kovind had demonstrated a strong sense of duty during his tenure in Parliament, as Bihar Governor and later as President.
“Even after being relieved from the highest post like the President, he has not rested,” he said.
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