Mission, not ambition: PM Modi reveals what it takes to be a good politician

Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (File photo)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday made his podcast debut as a guest on Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath's podcast series called 'People By WTF' and recalled his days as the Gujarat Chief Minister and shared what is takes to be a good politician.

Their discussion spanned various topics, including global conflicts, youth participation in politics, and Modi's consecutive terms as prime minister.

In the podcast, PM Modi also advocated for good people to enter politics, stressing that they should come with a mission, not ambition.

When asked by Kamath about the qualities required for someone to become a good politician, PM Modi responded that it is one thing to become a politician and to become successful is a different thing.

Dedication, commitment, being there for people, being a team player and communication are some of the qualities that the Prime Minister listed as requirements to become a good politician.

PM Modi said, "I believe that good people must keep entering politics and that they must have a mission, not an ambition." Mentioning Mahatma Gandhi, he said, "Gandhi is an example of ‘mission over ambition’ who shows how communication was more important than oratory skills."

PM Modi also listed several differences between an entrepreneur and a politician.

During the conversation, he also shared his life's mantras. He said, "When I became the CM, in one of my speeches, I had said that I will leave no stone unturned in my efforts. Secondly, I will not do anything for myself. Third, I am a human, I may make mistakes, but I will not make mistakes with bad intentions. I made them my life’s mantras. It is natural to make mistakes, after all I am a human, I am not God, but will not do wrong intentionally.”