Modi meets Pranab, seeks his blessings

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi today called on former president Pranab Mukherjee and sought his blessings ahead of his swearing-in.

Modi, who takes oath as prime minister for the second time on Thursday, described Mukherjee as a "statesman", reports our New Delhi correspondent.

"Meeting Pranab Da is always an enriching experience. His knowledge and insights are unparalleled. He is a statesman who has made an indelible contribution to our nation," Modi tweeted, posting pictures with Mukherjee.

"Sought his blessings during our meeting today," he added.

Meeting Pranab Da is always an enriching experience. His knowledge and insights are unparalleled. He is a statesman who has made an indelible contribution to our nation.

Sought his blessings during our meeting today. pic.twitter.com/dxFj6NPNd5

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 28, 2019

Mukherjee was conferred with the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honour, on the recommendation of the Modi-led government in January this year.

Modi has in the past expressed his gratitude to Mukherhee for hand-holding him in national politics, parliamentary rules and procedures and the Constitution after the former shifted to New Delhi from his home state Gujarat to become the PM in May 2014.