Historic hat-trick after 60 yrs: Modi

₹20K-cr transferred to 9.3 crore PMKS beneficiaries' accounts; PM thanks Varanasi voters

- NAMITA BAJPAI

EXPRESSING his gratitude to the people of Varanasi for electing him third time in a row as their representative in Lok Sabha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday called it a "historic hat-trick" and "unprecedented mandate", which came through after six decades in the country.

"After winning the elections, I have come to Varanasi. I bow to the people of Kashi, Baba Kashi Vishwanath and Maa Ganga," PM said. "History has been created as a third consecutive term has been awarded to a sitting government after a gap of 60 years. There are less instances in world when a government is given third term in succession by the people in democratic set-up," he added.

The PM said the trust reposed in him by the people of Kashi was his only possession. "I extend my gratitude to you for electing your 'Sevak Modi' third time in a row and reposing your faith in me after 10 years of governance," he said while addressing a gathering of farmers and women along with common people in Varanasi.