Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Wednesday extended heartfelt greetings to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his 75th birthday, praising him as a visionary world leader who transformed India’s global standing. Modi, born on September 17, 1950, in Vadnagar, Gujarat, turned 75 this year.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Shinde shared verses written by PM Modi, calling them deeply patriotic and reflective of his vision for a new India. He credited Modi’s decade-long leadership for elevating India from being seen as a developing nation to becoming a globally respected power.

“Today, India’s tricolour flies high across the world because of Modi ji’s leadership,” Shinde wrote, adding that the Prime Minister continues to work tirelessly with energy and determination at 75.

Shinde said that every citizen is a “fellow traveller” in Modi’s mission to transform India into a developed nation by 2047 and pledged Maharashtra’s active participation in this national goal.

“It is our privilege that Modi ji is our leader. On behalf of the Shiv Sena, I extend heartfelt wishes for his good health, long life and the realization of a strong and prosperous India,” he said.

Marking the occasion with a symbolic gift, Shinde announced the launch of a new state initiative called ‘Namo Parks.’ Under the scheme, Maharashtra will allocate ₹1 crore each to 394 municipal and town councils to develop modern parks for citizens. “These parks will be called ‘Namo Parks.’ This is Maharashtra’s gift to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his 75th birthday,” Shinde said.

To encourage quality development, the Urban Development Ministry will conduct a divisional-level competition, with three councils chosen for special awards.

The top municipal body will receive ₹5 crore, while the second and third positions will be awarded ₹3 crore and ₹1 crore, respectively.