NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday urged youngsters to avoid taking shortcuts in life, warning that “a shortcut will cut you short.”He made the remarks while releasing the autobiography of former President Ram Nath Kovind in the national capital.“I would particularly like to urge the younger generation—we live in the age of ‘Reels’ and social media influencers. Even in this era of shortcuts, let us remember something often written at railway stations: A shortcut will cut you short,” PM Modi said.He also encouraged youngsters to read the autobiographies of personalities they admire, saying such accounts offer a unique perspective on the historic events of their time.“The period covered in a biography brings one very close to history itself. That is why I sincerely hope that the hard work put in by Kovind ji proves beneficial to future generations and especially to the youth,” PM Modi added.PM Modi further praised Kovind’s “guidance” and recalled the former president’s “special affection and warmth” for him.“Today, we have the opportunity to witness the launch of Ramnath Kovind ji’s autobiography. I have known Kovind ji for a very long time and have had the opportunity to know him closely. His guidance during his tenure as President, along with his special affection and warmth towards me, has been a truly valuable asset for me,” he said.
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Expressing confidence in the book’s significance, the prime minister described Kovind’s autobiography as a potential “cherished legacy” for Indian democracy and society.“… Based on my understanding of his life and my knowledge of his capabilities, I can say with full confidence that Ramnath Kovind ji’s autobiography will become a cherished legacy for Indian democracy and society. There is so much I could speak about at length–regarding Kovind ji’s life journey and his contributions to society and the nation. However, a book launch event should only serve as a ‘curtain-raiser’; it is best if you all derive the full benefit of the book by reading it yourselves,” he added.Meanwhile, Kovind described the launch as an emotional moment and expressed gratitude to those who attended the event.“It is an emotional moment for me to address you all from this platform today. I have addressed you on several occasions, but today’s occasion is different. I am grateful to all of you for joining this programme to mark the launch of my autobiography. I was wondering what I should say today. I have already written everything in my autobiography, and readers will read it,” the former president remarked.