Narendra Modi has surpassed Indira Gandhi to become the second-longest-serving Prime Minister of India, marking a significant milestone in Indian political history. As of July 25, 2025, Modi has completed 4,078 consecutive days in office, exceeding Indira Gandhi's tenure of 4,077 days. Only Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first Prime Minister, has served longer. This achievement highlights Modi's enduring influence and solidifies his position as a key figure in shaping modern India. Several factors distinguish his time in office:

1. Rise of a Post-Independence Leader: Modi is the first Prime Minister born after India gained independence, symbolizing a generational shift in leadership. This distinction resonates with a population eager to see India assert its place on the global stage.

2. Three Consecutive Election Victories: Modi is only the second Prime Minister, after Nehru, to lead his party to victory in three consecutive general elections (2014, 2019, and 2024). This unprecedented feat underscores his widespread appeal and ability to connect with voters across the country.

3. Longest-Serving Non-Congress Prime Minister: Modi holds the record as the longest-serving Prime Minister from a non-Congress party. This signifies a departure from the decades-long dominance of the Indian National Congress and the emergence of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as a major force in Indian politics.

4. Economic Policies and Reforms: Modi's government has implemented significant economic reforms, focusing on privatization, liberalization, and attracting foreign investment. Initiatives like "Make in India" aimed to transform India into a global manufacturing hub. The introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in 2017 was a landmark reform to create a unified national market. While GDP growth has seen fluctuations, India's economy has almost doubled in size during his tenure. However, concerns remain about income inequality and job creation.

5. Social Welfare Programs: The Modi government has launched numerous social welfare programs targeting poverty reduction and improved access to essential services. Schemes like Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) promoted financial inclusion, while Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) provided LPG connections to women in low-income households. The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan aimed to improve sanitation and cleanliness across the country. These programs have contributed to a decline in multidimensional poverty, with millions lifted out of poverty.

6. Foreign Policy Initiatives: Modi's foreign policy has focused on strengthening relationships with neighboring countries, engaging with Southeast Asia and the Middle East, and building strategic partnerships with major global powers. The "Neighborhood First" policy prioritized regional cooperation, while the "Act East" policy aimed to deepen engagement with Southeast Asian nations. Modi's government has also emphasized balancing relationships with various global powers, including the US, Russia, and countries in the Middle East.

7. Challenges and Criticisms: Despite his achievements, Modi's tenure has faced criticism. Concerns have been raised about democratic backsliding, erosion of civil liberties, and the rise of Hindu nationalism. Some economic policies, such as demonetization, have been controversial and led to economic disruption. There have also been concerns about data manipulation and transparency.

Modi's time as Prime Minister has been marked by significant policy changes, economic reforms, and social welfare initiatives. His leadership has reshaped India's political landscape and strengthened its position on the world stage. While his supporters credit him with transforming India, critics raise concerns about the impact on democratic values and social cohesion. Only time will tell the full extent of Modi's legacy.