Daijiworld Media Network - Ranchi

Ranchi, Sep 7: Senior BJP leader and former Jharkhand chief minister Babulal Marandi has hailed Prime Minister Narendra Modi as not only India’s most popular leader, but a global icon, saying no other leader — in India or abroad — matches Modi’s appeal and impact.

In a recent interaction, Marandi praised US President Donald Trump’s remarks calling PM Modi a “good friend”, stating the comment reflects the strong US-India relationship and underlines Modi’s global stature.

“It is rare in any democracy for a leader to secure a third term with such overwhelming popularity,” said Marandi, calling Modi’s third consecutive term “historic and unmatched”. He also highlighted Modi’s consistently high global approval ratings, saying they place him far ahead of other world leaders.

Marandi emphasised that PM Modi’s popularity is rooted in action, not image. “His leadership has brought transformative change. His decisions have made him a globally respected statesman,” he noted.

On the recent GST rate cuts, Marandi expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for reducing GST on handicrafts and tribal art products from 12% to 5%, calling it a major boost for Jharkhand’s silk industry. He said this move will empower thousands of weavers and artisans by expanding market access.

“This is a gift to our artisans — a decision that will strengthen Jharkhand’s economy and preserve its rich handloom and tribal art heritage,” Marandi said in a post on social media platform X.