Shivraj Singh Briefs New Book ‘Apnapan’ Offering Personal Insights into PM Modi’s Leadership

Describing Apnapan as more than a political memoir, Shri Chouhan said the book seeks to present Prime Minister Modi from a closer human and ideological perspective rarely visible in public life.

Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan has announced the release of his new book 'Apnapan', a deeply personal account chronicling his 35-year-long association with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, offering what he describes as an intimate look into the Prime Minister's leadership, personality, discipline, and commitment to nation-building.

Speaking at a press conference in New Delhi, Shri Chouhan said the book reflects decades of shared experiences spanning organisational work, governance, political transformation, and public service.

The book will be formally launched on May 26, 2026, at the NASC Complex in Pusa, New Delhi, in the presence of former Vice President Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu and former Prime Minister Shri H. D. Deve Gowda.

A Personal Portrait of Narendra Modi Beyond Politics

Describing Apnapan as more than a political memoir, Shri Chouhan said the book seeks to present Prime Minister Modi from a closer human and ideological perspective rarely visible in public life.

According to the Union Minister, the book captures the experiences, inspirations, emotions, and values he absorbed while working alongside Narendra Modi over more than three decades.

"What the world sees is a decisive and influential leader, but I have personally witnessed in him a seeker, a Karmayogi, and a personality completely dedicated to national interest," Shri Chouhan said.

He described Prime Minister Modi as a leader driven by extraordinary discipline and relentless work ethic, noting that despite working late into the night, the Prime Minister approaches each day with the same energy, clarity, and dedication toward the nation.

Journey Began with the 1991 Ekta Yatra

Shri Chouhan revealed that his association with Narendra Modi began during the historic 1991 Ekta Yatra, which he described as a turning point in shaping his understanding of leadership and national service.

Recalling the yatra, he said that while many initially viewed it merely as a political campaign, Narendra Modi transformed it into a broader movement of national consciousness.

According to Chouhan, Modi's vision during the campaign extended beyond simply hoisting the national flag at Srinagar's Lal Chowk.

"It was about inspiring patriotism, pride, and dedication among the youth of the country," he said.

The Union Minister said it was during this period that he realised leadership is not built through speeches alone, but through sacrifice, discipline, commitment, and a deep sense of belonging toward people.

Book Highlights Modi's Organisational and Governance Skills

A major focus of Apnapan is Prime Minister Modi's organisational capabilities and political strategy, according to Shri Chouhan.

He said the Prime Minister's ability to expand organisational structures, connect with grassroots workers, design electoral strategies, and take ideas directly to people has remained one of his defining strengths throughout his political career.

Drawing from his own experience as Chief Minister and later Union Minister, Shri Chouhan said he witnessed firsthand how Modi approached governance challenges with clarity, dialogue, and determination.

The book also reportedly explores how technology became an integral part of governance under Modi's leadership long before many political leaders fully recognised its transformative potential.

According to Chouhan, the country later saw how technology was effectively integrated into:

• Governance systems

• Transparency mechanisms

• Public participation

• Service delivery

• Administrative efficiency

Stories Reveal Modi's Emotional and Human Side

Shri Chouhan stressed that Apnapan also highlights Prime Minister Modi's emotional depth and personal sensitivity toward ordinary workers and citizens.

Recalling an incident during the Ekta Yatra, he said several party workers were unable to reach Lal Chowk during the flag-hoisting ceremony due to security restrictions. Narendra Modi, he said, deeply empathised with their disappointment.

"That moment reflected his emotional depth and genuine connection with workers," Shri Chouhan said.

He added that while leadership is often associated only with organisational toughness, Prime Minister Modi possesses deep compassion for:

• Party workers

• Farmers

• Women

• Poor and marginalised communities

• Citizens at the last mile

According to Chouhan, this humane perspective is what makes Modi's leadership distinctive and far-reaching.

COVID-19 Leadership and Crisis Management

The book also reportedly reflects on Prime Minister Modi's leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Shri Chouhan said that during a period marked by nationwide uncertainty and anxiety, Modi demonstrated patience, composure, and strategic foresight in decision-making.

"Crises reveal the true character of leadership," he said, adding that the Prime Minister provided both direction and confidence to the nation during the difficult period.

'Apnapan' Positioned as Document of Political and Social Transformation

Clarifying the broader purpose of the book, Shri Chouhan said Apnapan is not simply a narration of political events, but a reflection of an idea, a work ethic, and a vision of national transformation.

According to him, readers will gain insight into:

• The journey from organisation to governance

• Decision-making under leadership

• The balance between sensitivity and firmness

• The philosophy of nation-building

• Political and social transformation in India

Shri Chouhan expressed confidence that the book would particularly inspire young people by conveying the message that national transformation does not depend on holding high office alone, but on commitment, discipline, service, and emotional connection with society.

He said the book aims to help readers better understand Prime Minister Narendra Modi's personality from close quarters while also serving as a valuable resource for those studying India's political and social evolution.