Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed confidence that the School of Ultimate Leadership (SOUL) will nurture great leaders who will excel in various fields and contribute to India’s growth. He described the establishment of SOUL as a significant milestone in the country’s journey toward becoming a “Viksit Bharat.”
In his speech at the SOUL Leadership Conclave in Delhi on Friday, PM Modi emphasized the importance of developing leaders across sectors for nation-building. “The development of citizens is crucial for nation-building. We need exceptional leaders in every field, and that is why the creation of SOUL is a vital step towards ‘Viksit Bharat,'” he stated.
PM Modi also highlighted that SOUL’s new, large campus near GIFT City will soon be completed. He expressed his belief that the institution would not only contribute to leadership development but also set new standards in architectural design. “The SOUL campus will be a remarkable place, and I am confident that it will lead the way in terms of architecture as well,” he said.
Recalling the words of Swami Vivekananda, PM Modi noted, “Swami Vivekananda once said, ‘Give me a hundred energetic young men and women, and I shall transform India.’ He believed that true leadership could propel India to greatness. Today, we aim to create leaders who will transform not only India but the world.”
He added that every Indian is working towards realizing a “Viksit Bharat” in the 21st century, and that leadership is needed in every area of life, not just politics. “In a country of 1.4 billion, we require the best leadership in every sector—political, social, economic, and more. SOUL offers a great opportunity to nurture leadership for the future, and I hope it will produce leaders who will make an impact both in India and globally.”
PM Modi also reflected on Gujarat’s growth, recounting the skepticism around the state’s resources when it separated from Maharashtra. “When Gujarat was to be separated, people questioned how it would survive without natural resources. But the people of Gujarat showed that leadership, more than resources, defines success. Today, Gujarat is an example of what good leadership can achieve.”
The SOUL Leadership Conclave, which began on February 21, serves as a platform for leaders from diverse fields—including politics, sports, arts, media, public policy, business, and the social sector—to share their experiences and discuss leadership.
The School of Ultimate Leadership is being established in Gujarat to train leaders dedicated to the public good. Its focus is to broaden political leadership in India by providing formal training to those who rise through merit, commitment, and passion for service, rather than relying solely on political lineage.
Earlier this month, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel laid the foundation stone for SOUL’s campus in Gandhinagar, which will span 22 acres near the Gujarat Biotechnology University on GIFT City Road. The campus, estimated to cost Rs 150 crore, is set to be completed in the next two years.