'Journalists Always Catch Us Off Guard': PM Modi Recalls How Media Predicted His 2001 Gujarat Move

PM Modi Recalls 2001 Gujarat Appointment

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday, November 12, 2026, shared a memorable anecdote about his early political journey and his relationship with journalists. Speaking at a Diwali Milan gathering organised for journalists at the BJP headquarters in New Delhi, Modi recalled how members of the media had seemingly discovered his impending appointment as Gujarat Chief Minister in 2001 before the information became widely known within his party.

Modi said that at the time, only a handful of senior BJP leaders knew about the decision. He was spending much of his time at the party office at 11 Ashoka Road when a group of journalists unexpectedly entered his room.

Women Journalists Asked Him to Distribute Sweets

Recalling the incident, Modi said a group of women journalists approached him and asked him to distribute sweets because he was reportedly going to Gujarat to become the Chief Minister.

He said he initially denied knowing anything about the development. However, the journalists insisted that they already knew about his appointment and accused him of hiding the information.

Modi described the episode as an example of how journalists often manage to obtain information before it becomes publicly known. He acknowledged that their information eventually proved accurate.

Journalists Attended His 2001 Oath Ceremony

The Prime Minister also recalled that several journalists attended his swearing-in ceremony in Gujarat in 2001 using their own money and making their own travel arrangements.

According to Modi, they did not attend merely to report the political event but came because of their personal connection and friendship with him. He said the gesture left a lasting impression.

PM Modi Reflects on 25 Years of Media Transformation

Modi also discussed how journalism and media communication have changed over the past 25 years. He recalled the earlier days of press releases, fax machines and outside broadcast vans, contrasting them with today's digital platforms, Instagram reels, mobile journalism and podcasts.

He observed that mobile phones have increasingly become reporting tools and that individuals now have access to their own platforms and channels.

The Prime Minister also pointed out that the expansion of digital media has created new challenges alongside making certain aspects of traditional reporting easier.

Modi Praises Journalists' Role in Democracy

During the interaction, Modi praised field reporters for reaching difficult locations during accidents, earthquakes, floods and other emergencies. He said journalists often continue reporting even when others are moving away from dangerous situations.

He also described diverse public opinions as an important part of a vibrant democracy and acknowledged the role of the Indian media in sustaining democratic discussion.

The Diwali Milan interaction brought together the Prime Minister and journalists to reflect on their long-standing professional and personal relationship, as well as the changing nature of news and communication in India.