Date:05/04/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/04/05/stories/2006040519971600.htm

National

My ambition is to serve Gujarat: Modi

Special Correspondent

"I would like to make it a strong pillar"

Some "friends" still trying to ruin his image, says Mr. Modi

"Gujarat had developed "clear, transparent policies" on various sectors"

AHMEDABAD: Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi does not harbour an ambition to be projected as the future Prime Minister.

"My ambition is to serve Gujarat all through my life and convert it into a strong pillar on which India can rest and progress," Mr. Modi said at a question-answer session after addressing the national executive of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry here on Tuesday.

An industrialist asked Mr. Modi whether he would like to be projected as the BJP's candidate for Prime Minister. The questioner also wanted to know what Mr. Modi was doing to improve his image.

A casual Mr. Modi said that some of his "friends" in various spheres of life were still trying to further ruin his image but the positive side was that their efforts created curiosity among the people about Narendra Modi.

He said he was not concerned about improving his image only for the sake of prime ministership.

"So long as I am allowed, I would like to serve the five crore people of Gujarat and make the State a strong pillar on which any Prime Minister of India can take pride," he said.

Mr. Modi gave details of the challenges and opportunities available in the State for industrial growth and pointed out that Gujarat had the tenacity to convert challenges into opportunities.

He said the Government's focus was on multiple activities to avoid ups and downs in economic development.