Op-ed: A historic milestone for India, a closer bond for the Maldives

The following is an op-ed:

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A Record-Breaking Milestone

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has created history! On June 10, 2026, PM Modi completes 4,399 consecutive days in the Prime Minister’s Office. This makes him India's longest continuously serving democratically elected Prime Minister.  When including his prior tenure as the Chief Minister of Gujarat, PM Modi has spent over 24 years as the democratically elected head in the Indian governance system.

Crossing this 12-year threshold is not just a triumph of political endurance. It represents an era of long political stability, economic growth, social upheaval, betterment of governance with greater people’s trust and transformation for the world's largest democracy.

Under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, India has undergone a massive modernization drive across every major sector. In infrastructure, the country launched mega projects like the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan to build world-class highways, modern railway stations, and high-speed rail networks. The nation's space sector reached historic heights through the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), achieving a successful moon landing with Chandrayaan-3, launching the Aditya-L1 solar mission, and opening the door for private space tech startups. In defense and national security, India shifted heavily toward self-reliance under the "Make in India" banner, building its own aircraft carriers, upgrading border infrastructure, and growing into a major global exporter of military equipment. At the same time, massive digital programs like the Digital India initiative, Start-up India, Stand-Up India have connected millions of rural citizens to the modern economy through instant mobile payments and paperless public services.

On the world stage, Prime Minister Modi has transformed India into a powerful global voice through his signature "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam"- One Earth, One Family- diplomacy. India successfully used its G20 Presidency to bridge global divides and championed the inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member. With ‘Neighborhood First’ policy, vision MAHASAGAR and focus on the Global South, PM Modi has firmly established India as a leader for developing nations. At the same time, India has strengthened major international partnerships like the QUAD, BRICS, led global climate programs like the International Solar Alliance, International Biofuel Alliance, International Big Cat Alliance and positioned itself as a trusted regional first responder during humanitarian crises across the Indian Ocean.

The Maldivian connect

This political milestone resonates deeply across the Indian Ocean, right here in the Maldives. Last year, during the State Visit of PM Modi to Maldives, to celebrate 60 years of independence of the Maldives; President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu hosted an official state banquet in Male'. In his banquet speech, President Muizzu applauded for his unwavering commitment to public service, visionary leadership, and dedication to the progress and prosperity of the people.

The praise from Male' underscores how deeply India’s domestic stability impacts its regional foreign policy. A stable government in New Delhi has translated into predictable, strong support for its neighbors. Under Modi’s "Neighborhood First" policy, and vision MAHASAGAR, India has firmly established itself as our closest and most reliable partner.

Bridges Across the Ocean

Prime Minister Modi's engagement with the Maldives has been remarkably consistent. Throughout his historic tenure, he has visited our archipelago a total of four times—spanning across his major terms in office.

• His first visit was in 2018 to attend the inauguration of former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.
• His second visit came in 2019, which was his first official bilateral trip after winning his second term.
• He visited a third time in late 2023 to attend the oath-taking ceremony of President Muizzu.
• His fourth and most recent visit was the historic July 2025 state visit to celebrate our 60th Independence Day.

These frequency of these visits highlight the high strategic value India places on its ties with the Maldives. From critical infrastructure projects like the Greater Male' Connectivity Project to crucial healthcare assistance and financial lines of credit, India’s steadfast commitment to the development of Maldives is indeed commendable.

Looking Forward

As Prime Minister Modi secures his legacy as India's longest-serving elected leader, the Maldives looks ahead to a more robust partnership. In the words of PM Modi, Maldives occupies a special place in the India’s neighborhood first policy. President Muizzu's vision of an inclusive, youth-driven economy matches perfectly with India’s technological and economic boom.

The ties between our two nations are tied to the shared waters of the Indian Ocean. With New Delhi entering a historic chapter of continuous leadership, Malé can expect this enduring friendship to sail toward even greater heights. As PM Modi puts it- India and Maldives are all weather friends!