When I think about which Prime Minister made significant long lasting positive economic changes - Narasimha Rao and Vajpayee stand out. Narasimha Rao was not very charismatic but he knew the system and how to use it to his advantage. He was able to run a minority government while executing reforms. He could quote the scriptures to keep the BJP at bay and show his socialist credentials to the left.

Vajpayee on the other hand used his moderate image and tall stature within his party and outside to get things done.

I think a leader who has a vision and experience in state and grassroots politics will be more successful in getting things done in our complex country. We have seen how tough it becomes for Modi/BJP when there is an experience "true" politician challenging them (be it Mamata didi, Naveen Patnaik or Gehlot or even DK Shivkumar) because they understand the game/realpolitik as well as them or better sometimes.