Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday was formally elected as the leader of the National Democratic Alliance coalition, which won the most number of seats in the country’s national election after his political party failed to win a majority on its own.

"This 18th Lok Sabha is an important milestone towards fulfilling those dreams when the country will celebrate the 100 years of independence in 2047," Modi said. He added that he has informed the President that they will be comfortable if the event is held on the evening of June 9.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) stalwart Narendra Modi was on Friday elected as the leader of the ruling coalition NDA, paving way for his consecutive third term.