‘Shortcuts Will Cut You Short’: PM Modi's Message To India's ‘Reel Generation’ At Book Launch Event

Published 12 August 2026 · local

News india ‘Shortcuts Will Cut You Short’: PM Modi's Message To India's ‘Reel Generation’ At Book Launch Event ‘Shortcuts Will Cut You Short’: PM Modi's

News india ‘Shortcuts Will Cut You Short’: PM Modi's Message To India's ‘Reel Generation’ At Book Launch Event ‘Shortcuts Will Cut You Short’: PM Modi's Message To India's ‘Reel Generation’ At Book Launch Event Published By, Last Updated: August 12, 2026, 11:32 IST PM Modi also praised Kovind for remaining engaged in public life after completing his presidential term. Rapid Read Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday gave a message to India’s young generation to look beyond short-form social media content and learn from the struggles and experiences of others, saying that in the “era of reels", they should remember that “shortcuts will cut you short." While speaking at the launch of former President Ramnath Kovind’s autobiography, Triumph of the Indian Republic: My Life, My Struggles, in the national capital, PM Modi urged young people to read autobiographies, saying they provide an opportunity to understand different periods through the lives of those who experienced them. “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…" he said.

“I would urge young people to read the autobiography of anyone they admire. An autobiography offers a unique perspective on the historical events of a specific era; 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…" he added. #WATCH | Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, “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… pic.twitter.com/kcrzzSungQ— ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2026 The Prime Minister also cited Kovind’s life as an example of how determination and perseverance can help a person overcome difficult circumstances. He praised Kovind’s rise from a humble background in Kanpur Dehat to the highest constitutional office in the country as an inspiration for India’s youth. He recalled that Kovind lost his mother in a fire during his childhood and said the tragedy could have broken him, but instead made him stronger.

“Just see the life of Kovind ji. He was born in a very ordinary [family] in Kanpur Dehat. He lost his mother at a very young age. Anyone can break from such trauma, but Kovind ji became stronger," he added, while highlighting the role played by Ram Nath Kovind’s father in shaping his life," he said. PM Modi also praised Kovind for remaining engaged in public life after completing his presidential term. He specifically mentioned his work related to “One Nation, One Election", saying a solution to the issue could “open a new chapter in Indian democracy". The Prime Minister earlier also said that India’s youth are emerging as the driving force behind the country’s progress, crediting them for achievements across sectors ranging from manufacturing and the economy to space exploration. He also highlighted the government’s push to strengthen education and skill development, saying educational institutions are key to unlocking the country’s potential. Emphasising the role of young people in nation-building, the Prime Minister said the strength of any nation lies in empowering its youth with the right opportunities, guidance and confidence to pursue their aspirations. “The potential of the youth in any country becomes the strength of that nation when they receive the right opportunities, the right guidance, and the confidence to dream big and fulfil those dreams on their own soil.