Narendra Modi has been the Prime Minister of India since May 26, 2014, after his party, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), won a landslide victory in the 2014 general elections. He was re-elected in 2019 with an even larger mandate. His administration has brought about significant changes to India’s political, economic, and social landscape.
1. Key Policies and Initiatives
The Modi administration has introduced several high-profile reforms and initiatives:
Economic Reforms:
Make in India: Aimed at boosting manufacturing and making India a global hub for production.
Digital India: Promoting digital literacy, e-governance, and technology-based solutions.
Demonetization (2016): The sudden invalidation of ₹500 and ₹1,000 currency notes to combat black money, corruption, and counterfeit currency.
Goods and Services Tax (GST): Implemented a unified indirect tax system across the country to simplify taxation.
Jan Dhan Yojana: Financial inclusion program aimed at providing bank accounts to unbanked citizens.
Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India): Launched during the COVID-19 pandemic to promote self-sufficiency and reduce dependency on imports.
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Infrastructure Development:
Smart Cities Mission: To create sustainable and citizen-friendly urban centers.
Ujjwala Yojana: Provided free LPG gas connections to rural households to reduce dependence on traditional fuels.
PM Awas Yojana: Housing for all with affordable homes for urban and rural poor.
Bharatmala and Sagarmala Projects: Focused on developing roads, highways, and port infrastructure.
Social and Welfare Programs:
Swachh Bharat Abhiyan: Nationwide campaign to eliminate open defecation and promote cleanliness.
Ayushman Bharat: World’s largest health insurance scheme providing free medical coverage to economically weaker sections.
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao: Initiative to empower and educate the girl child.
PM-Kisan: Income support to small and marginal farmers.
Education and Labor:
New Education Policy (NEP) 2020: Comprehensive reforms in the Indian education system, emphasizing skill development and digital learning.
Labour Codes: Consolidated 29 labor laws into four codes to simplify compliance and improve worker conditions.
The Modi government has emphasized improving India’s global standing:
Neighborhood First Policy: Strengthened ties with South Asian countries like Bhutan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.
Act East Policy: Deepened economic and strategic ties with Southeast Asia.
Strong Relationship with the US and Western Countries: Boosted India’s image as a strategic partner.
Focus on China: Managed growing tensions, particularly after the Doklam standoff and the Galwan Valley clashes.
International Recognition: India has gained prominence in global platforms such as the G20, BRICS, and the UN.
While Modi’s administration has received praise, it has also faced criticism for some decisions:
Article 370 Abrogation (2019): Revoked Jammu & Kashmir's special status, leading to international and domestic controversy.
Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA): Aimed at granting citizenship to non-Muslim refugees from neighboring countries, sparking protests.
Farm Laws (2020): These agricultural reforms were repealed after massive farmer protests.
Clampdown in Kashmir: Internet shutdowns and security measures in Jammu & Kashmir after Article 370 abrogation faced global criticism.
Handling of Dissent: Accusations of curbing free speech, arresting activists, and using sedition laws against critics.
COVID-19 Management: While praised for the vaccine rollout, the second wave of COVID-19 exposed gaps in the healthcare system.
4. Economic Challenges
Unemployment: Critics point to high unemployment rates despite economic reforms.
Wealth Inequality: Growing income disparity has been highlighted as a concern.
Economic Slowdown: GDP growth slowed during certain periods, exacerbated by the pandemic.
Privatization: The push for privatizing public sector enterprises has received mixed reactions.
5. Social and Cultural Impact
Promotion of Hindutva: Modi’s government has often been associated with promoting Hindu nationalist sentiments, which critics claim alienates minorities.
Mob Lynching and Communal Violence: Critics point to a rise in communal tensions during his tenure.
Media Freedom: Concerns about press freedom and alleged suppression of dissenting voices.
6. Legacy
Supporters hail Modi’s administration for its focus on nationalism, development, and making India a global power. Critics, however, argue that some of his policies have widened social divides and undermined democratic institutions.
The Modi government continues to enjoy significant support, with its emphasis on a strong leadership image, efficient governance, and a focus on building a "New India."
