NEW DELHI: BJP leader Narendra Modi was on Saturday appointed Prime Minister-elect by President Ram Nath Kovind, who also invited him to form the new government.

After the BJP and the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) unanimously elected him as their leader, Modi reached the Rashtrapati Bhawan on Saturday night to stake claim to form the next government.

Earlier, NDA leaders met the President with a list of their MPs as a proof of the dispensation's majority in the 17th Lok Sabha.

Modi later told reporters at the forecourts of the Rashtrapati Bhawan that President Kovind has appointed him Prime Minister-elect and asked him to form the new government.

"I am grateful to the NDA leaders for giving me the responsibility," he said.

He said the "massive mandate" given by the people also brings responsibility to fulfil their aspirations.

With its resources, India has great opportunities, he said, adding "we have to be ready to take advantage of it."

He also asserted that his government will not sit back and continue with the development work at a faster pace.

"No stone will remain unturned to fulfill the aspirations and dreams of the people," Modi said.

He underlined that his government will ensure safety and security of every citizen and work for the progress of India.

The outgoing Union council of ministers had tendered its resignation on Friday night and Kovind had asked Modi to continue as caretaker PM.



In Video: Modi meets President, stakes claim to form government