PM Modi Hits 100 Million Followers on X Platform

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's follower count on his X handle has crossed 100 million, marking significant growth over the past three years. Modi remains the most followed head of government globally on the platform. Other top leaders and global celebrities have significantly fewer followers compared to him.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's follower count on his X handle has surged past the 100-million mark, demonstrating nearly 30 million added followers in the last three years, officials announced on Sunday.

Currently, Modi holds the title of the most followed head of government on this social media platform worldwide. His numbers starkly contrast with those of opposition leaders like AAP's Arvind Kejriwal and Congress' Rahul Gandhi, who have 27.5 million and 26.4 million followers respectively.

In comparison, other globally recognized political figures such as US President Joe Biden and Turkiye's Recep Tayyip Erdogan boast 38.1 million and 21.5 million followers, respectively.

Responding to this milestone, Prime Minister Modi posted, ''A hundred million on @X! Happy to be on this vibrant medium and cherish the discussion, debate, insights, people's blessings, constructive criticism and more. Looking forward to an equally engaging time in the future as well.''

An official remarked that Modi's following even outstrips that of influential global athletes like Virat Kohli (64.1 million), Brazilian footballer Neymar Jr (63.6 million), and American basketball player LeBron James (52.9 million). Modi's numbers eclipse those of celebrities like Taylor Swift (95.3 million), Lady Gaga (83.1 million), and Kim Kardashian (75.2 million).

Officials further highlighted that world leaders engage with Modi on social media as it significantly boosts their own follower counts, engagements, views, and reposts. This trend was recently observed in Italy and Austria.

Prime Minister Modi's influence extends beyond X; he commands nearly 25 million subscribers on YouTube and more than 91 million followers on Instagram. Since joining X (formerly Twitter) in 2009, Modi has been consistent in using the platform for constructive engagement, officials noted, emphasizing that he has never blocked anyone.

''He maintains an active and engaging online presence, follows numerous common citizens, interacts with them, replies to their messages, and eschews paid promotions or bots,'' an official stated, indicating Modi's ability to connect with a broad and dynamic audience.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also celebrated the milestone, stating, ''Prime Minister @narendramodi crossing 100 million followers on X is a testimony to how he has revolutionized direct communication. Congratulate PM Modi on reaching this milestone. Confident that his vision will reach many more in the times ahead.''

(With inputs from agencies.)