PM Modi Back At Shri Ram College, 13 Years After "Glass Full" Speech Launched His National Bid - NDTV

**Prime Minister Narendra Modi returns to Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC) in Delhi, marking the 13‑year anniversary of the speech that propelled him onto the national stage.** The visit, covered by NDTV and other outlets, saw Modi stand before a packed auditorium of students, faculty and alumni. In 2010, during a campus rally, the then‑Chief Minister of Gujarat delivered a now‑famous address that coined the phrase “Glass full,” signalling his ambition for a “full‑spectrum” development agenda. The 2023 appearance was billed as a “re‑engagement” with the institution that helped launch his political ascent, and the Prime Minister’s itinerary included a brief interaction with the college’s student union and a pledge to support vocational training programs.

**In the speech, Modi recycled a line from his earlier address—“half water, half air”—while delivering a broader critique of the opposition and outlining his government’s economic record.** He accused the opposition, particularly the Indian National Congress, of perpetuating a “jhooth ki goonj” (echo of lies) and launched a pointed attack on Rahul Gandhi, dubbing him a product of a “mai‑baap” (parental) political culture. Highlighting India’s 7.8 % GDP growth, Modi warned that the nation’s progress could be jeopardised by “fragile‑5” economies and reiterated a stern message to Pakistan, stating that any escalation would be met with decisive action. The address also featured references to the “Glass full” metaphor, framing current policies as a continuation of the vision he set out more than a decade ago.

**The visit has drawn mixed reactions across the political spectrum.** Opposition leaders dismissed the speech as a “political stunt” and accused the Prime Minister of exploiting student platforms for partisan gain, while SRCC’s administration praised the engagement as an opportunity to inspire the next generation of leaders. Economists noted that the 7.8 % growth figure, though impressive, masks underlying challenges such as inflation and unemployment, and warned that the “Fragile Five” comparison oversimplifies complex global dynamics. As the campaign season intensifies ahead of the next general election, Modi’s SRCC address underscores his strategy of blending nostalgic rhetoric with contemporary policy narratives to solidify his political momentum.