New Delhi / I bow before every Indian: PM Modi returns from US to a grand welcome

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday returned from his nearly a week-long trip to the United Nations (UN) where he addressed the UN general assembly and several events, including the mega "Howdy, Modi!" diaspora gathering.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) organised a grand welcome for the prime minister outside the Palam Technical Area where thousands of party workers gathered. PM Modi was felicitated outside Palam Technical Airport, on his arrival in Delhi after concluding his visit to the United States of America.

In his address, PM Modi thanked the crowd which had gathered at the airport to welcome him.

"I want to thank you all for coming in large numbers. This has been a memorable welcome. On this occasion, I bow to each and every Indian," PM Modi said.

PM Modi said that today the world views India differently from 2014.

"After assuming office in 2014, I went to the United Nations. I went to the UN even now. In these five years, I have seen a big change. The respect for India, the enthusiasm towards India has increased significantly. This is due to the 130 crore Indians," PM Modi said.

PM Modi also said that India's stature has grown globally. "I had gone to the US in 2003 and again in 2019. But there is a big difference now India's stature has grown globally," PM Modi said.

PM Modi also talked about the 'Howdy, Modi' event which took place in Houston, Texas last week.

"The programme in Houston, 'Howdy, Modi' was grand. The coming of US President Donald Trump was special. There were Republicans and Democrats. In addition to all this, what stands out is the manner in which the Indian community in USA, in Texas and in Houston showcased their presence," PM Modi said.

According to police, multi-layer security arrangements were in place for the prime minister with deployment of 10 additional companies of police. Multiple CCTV cameras have also been put up.

Anti-sabotage teams and snipers were also been deployed at designated rooftops to keep a thorough watch. Traffic police has also been deployed to tackle congestion on the route, the police said.

Before leaving for Delhi, the prime minister thanked the American people for the "exceptional welcome, warmth and hospitality" and expressed confidence that the diverse range of programmes he attended during the stay will greatly benefit India and its development trajectory.