Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday hoped that the School of Ultimate Leadership (SOUL) would give birth to visionary leaders who would lead change in many spheres. Addressing the SOUL Leadership Conclave in Delhi, he referred to the opening of the institution as a landmark moment in the journey of 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India).
"The development of citizens is crucial for nation-building. We need top leadership in every field, and that is why the School of Ultimate Leadership is a major step forward in this journey," PM Modi said.
SOUL's campus near GIFT City to be ready soon
PM Modi also stated that SOUL's new campus near GIFT City will be ready soon and will be a benchmark in architectural achievement.
"The large campus of SOUL will be ready soon near GIFT City. Today, the chairman showed me its entire model and plan. I believe that this institution will not only foster leadership but also stand out architecturally," he said.
'India needs leadership beyond politics'
PM Modi stressed the call for leadership in all fields, not merely in politics. He quoted Swami Vivekananda's vision to change India by committed young leaders.
"Swami Vivekananda once said, ‘Give me a hundred energetic young men and women, and I shall transform India.’ He believed that with the right leaders, India wouldn’t just gain freedom but would become a global leader," PM Modi said.
Emphasising the growth of India, he added, "Today, every Indian is working tirelessly for Viksit Bharat in the 21st century. In a country of 140 crore people, we need the best leadership across every domain—not just politics, but also business, science, technology, and governance. The School of Ultimate Leadership will shape the leaders of tomorrow, some of whom may even emerge as key figures in politics."
Reminiscences about Gujarat's makeover under leadership
Looking back on Gujarat's progress, PM Modi remembered the skepticism when Gujarat and Maharashtra parted ways.
"When Gujarat was being separated from Maharashtra, many questioned its survival. Gujarat had no coal, no major natural resources, and no water—only a desert and a border with Pakistan. People asked, ‘What will Gujarat do?’ But look at the power of leadership—today, Gujarat is an economic powerhouse," PM Modi stated.
SOUL conclave: A platform for future leaders
Earlier today, PM Modi launched the SOUL Leadership Conclave at Bharat Mandapam in the presence of Bhutan Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay. The two-day conclave (February 21-22) will be a top platform where leaders from politics, sports, arts, media, business, public policy, and social sectors will exchange ideas and experiences on leadership.
The conclave seeks to build a thought leadership ecosystem and collaborative environment where future leaders learn from successes and failures alike to inspire the minds of the young generation.
SOUL: A vision for leadership training
The School of Ultimate Leadership, a new school in Gujarat, is intended to educate and groom true leaders committed to public service. It will expand the political leadership landscape by providing formal education to individuals on the basis of merit, commitment, and passion for governance and not merely political heritage.
On 14th February, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel laid the foundation stone for SOUL's campus in Gandhinagar. The Rs 150 crore facility will cover 22 acres close to Gujarat Biotechnology University on GIFT City Road and will be completed within two years.
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