Deeply touched, says ex-Prez Kovind on PM Modi’s praise for his presidency

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed gratitude to former President Ram Nath Kovind following his exit from the Rashtrapati Bhavan. PM Modi wrote a letter for the former President of India thanking him for his contribution during is tenure.

Former President Kovind thanked PM Modi for his generous and kind words. “This letter from Prime Minister @narendramodi has deeply touched me. I take his kind and heartfelt words as a reflection of the love and respect fellow citizens have showered on me. I am sincerely grateful to you all,” Kovind tweeted.

PM Modi’s letter said Kovind has contributed to setting the highest standards of probity and performance, principles, and sensitivity and service. “Through your life and career, you have persevered with determination and dignity, with a deep commitment to the morality and integrity that is the core of the Indian ethos, and with the highest regard and responsibility toward the principles of our Constitution,” the letter said.

PM Modi further addressed Kovind’s calm demeanor during difficult times and amid unprecedented stress. He also said the former President was compassionate and concerned for the weakest citizen. “You were a steadfast and passionate champion of social transformation and inclusion, speaking for the poor, the historically excluded and oppressed, and the marginalised, with special attention to the status and role of women,” he added.

Kovind on Sunday recalled the key moments from his five-year term at the highest office in his emotional address. He shared his thoughts on his successor’s note-worthy gesture.

“President Droupadi Murmu personally coming from Rashtrapati Bhavan to drop me off at my residence at 12, Janpath, New Delhi, is a very touching personal moment for me as well an example of the high traditions of Indian democracy,” he said. Kovind’s term as President of India ended last Thursday. Former Jharkhand governor Murmu was sworn in as President, becoming India’s first tribal leader and the second woman to be the head of state.