Kohima, June 10: Former Nagaland Chief Minister S. C. Jamir, who began his political career as Parliamentary Secretary to Jawaharlal Nehru, has offered a distinctive perspective on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s record tenure. Modi has now completed 4,399 days in office, becoming the longest-serving Prime Minister of India in continuous elected tenure.

Jamir contrasted the two leaders, describing Nehru as “a philosopher” and Modi as “a practical man.” He noted that Nehru largely worked through officers and institutions, while Modi engages directly with issues. “If you raise an issue with him, he addresses it personally without intermediaries,” Jamir said, adding that this approach gives Modi firsthand knowledge of challenges across the country, including in the Northeast.

Reflecting on governance styles, Jamir observed that Nehru’s era was shaped by British administrative traditions, whereas Modi represents a more accessible “Indian model.” He praised Modi’s open communication style, contrasting it with the reserved manner of many of his predecessors.

Jamir also pointed to the shift in India’s economic philosophy. He recalled that Nehru’s government followed a Russian-style planned economy, heavily controlled by licences, which limited growth. In contrast, he said, Modi’s leadership has enabled India to emerge as one of the fastest-growing major economies.

For the Northeast, Jamir credited Modi with unprecedented attention and funding. “When I was Chief Minister, budgets often ran into just 10–20 crores. Today the investments are on an entirely different scale,” he said. He further highlighted progress in the Naga peace process, noting that underground groups signed two landmark political agreements under Modi’s tenure.