A Decade of Modi: Navigating Landscape and Frontiers

ARABINDA RABHA

In May 2023, India marked a significant juncture, celebrating a decade under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

The journey, initiated in 2014 with the promise of “acche din” (good days), has been a transformative odyssey, leaving an indelible mark on India’s socio-political fabric and economic trajectory. This comprehensive exploration critically evaluates the impact on India’s diverse society, shedding light on the multifaceted narrative.

Socio-Political Agendas – A Tapestry of Transformation: The socio-political initiatives of the Modi government have undeniably woven a complex tapestry, intertwining success stories with controversies.

Initiatives such as the Digital India Initiative, Jan Dhan Yojana, and PM Awas Yojana were envisioned as catalysts for change, ushering in an era of technological empowerment, financial inclusion, and accessible housing. These policies have indeed left an indelible mark on India’s socio-economic landscape.

However, a critical lens reveals the ideological underpinnings of decisions such as the construction of the Ram Temple and the revocation of Article 370. While celebrated by some for preserving cultural and political identity, these moves have intensified polarizing currents within the nation.

The historic passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill stands as a stark contrast, a stride towards gender representation, while controversies surrounding the farm bills and the government’s handling of ethnic violence in Manipur highlight the complex nature of governance.

Notably, the failure to conduct the decadal Census in 2021 became a focal point of criticism, with allegations of excluding millions from their food entitlements under the National Food Security Act (NFSA). This lapse underscored the importance of accurate demographic data for effective governance and equitable policy implementation.

Economic Agendas – Navigating Successes and Challenges: The economic policies under the Modi government reflect a nuanced blend of successes and persistent challenges. Initiatives to boost the economy through increased foreign direct investments and the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) have positioned India on the global economic stage.

However, the abrupt demonetization in 2016, aimed at curbing corruption, sent shockwaves through various sectors, raising debates on the efficacy of drastic measures.

Concerns about India’s general government debt potentially exceeding 100% of GDP were raised by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), though the government contested this assertion. The delicate balance required for sustainable economic growth is evident, emphasizing the need for prudent fiscal measures.

law1 1 — Farmers protest against the new farm laws, at the Singhu Border in New Delhi

Persistent challenges include high unemployment rates, low farm income, and stagnant worker wages. The COVID-19 pandemic further underscored the importance of robust welfare measures, with the NFSA emerging as a crucial lifeline during challenging times.

Challenges and Controversies – Navigating the Complex Terrain: The socio-political landscape under the Modi government has faced challenges and controversies. Initiatives like the construction of the Ram Temple and the revocation of Article 370 intensified polarization within the nation. The farm bills triggered nationwide protests, raising questions about the impact of agrarian reforms on farmers and the agricultural sector.

One of the most notable controversies was the failure to conduct the decadal Census in 2021. This omission drew sharp criticism, with allegations of the government denying millions their food entitlements under the NFSA. This debate underscored the importance of accurate demographic data for effective governance and equitable policy implementation.

Digital India Initiative: Launched in 2015, this aimed to transform India into a digitally empowered society. Progress has been significant, particularly in urban areas, but challenges persist in bridging the digital divide in rural areas.

Jan Dhan Yojana and Financial Inclusion: Launched in 2014, this successfully provided financial services to the unbanked. However, ensuring active usage and preventing fraudulent activities in these accounts pose ongoing challenges.

PM Awas Yojana and Housing for All: Launched in 2015, the goal was to provide affordable housing to all by 2022. While commendable progress has been made, achieving the ambitious goal of housing for all remains a work in progress.

PM Mudra Loans: Initiated in 2015, this scheme aimed at facilitating small business loans. The program has supported entrepreneurs and small businesses, contributing to economic growth. However, monitoring and addressing challenges related to loan defaults are imperative for long-term sustainability.

Make in India Project: Launched in 2014, this aimed at boosting domestic manufacturing and attracting foreign investment. Progress has been made, but realizing the vision of making India a global manufacturing hub requires persistent efforts.

Construction of the Ram Temple: This marked a significant moment in India’s socio-political landscape, sparking debates on secularism and the role of religion in governance.

Revocation of Article 370: In 2019, Jammu and Kashmir lost its special status, leading to debates on regional autonomy and a subsequent security clampdown.

Farm Bills and Agrarian Reforms: The initiation of three farm bills in 2020 triggered widespread protests, leading to their eventual repeal. This highlighted the importance of inclusive policy-making.

Ethnic Violence in Manipur: In May 2023, ethnic violence exposed the challenges of managing regional complexities, emphasizing the need for a nuanced approach. Prime Minister Modi still not visited Manipur!

National Food Security Act (NFSA) and Census Controversy: The NFSA faced challenges due to the failure to conduct the decadal Census in 2021, leading to accusations of denying food entitlements to millions.

Migrants in the time of unprecedented lockdown announcement by Modi @ Covid

Evaluating Economic Policies: Striking a Balance Between Growth and Inclusion: The Modi government’s economic policies aimed at fostering growth and attracting investments have yielded mixed results. The positive impact of increased foreign direct investments and the GST has been tempered by the disruptive effects of demonetization.

Addressing challenges such as unemployment, agrarian distress, and stagnant wages requires sustained efforts, marked by inclusive policies that prioritize the welfare of all citizens.

The COVID-19 pandemic served as a litmus test for India’s healthcare infrastructure and the resilience of its economy. The NFSA emerged as a crucial safety net, emphasizing the importance of robust welfare measures in times of crisis. The IMF’s caution about India’s general government debt exceeding 100% of GDP adds a layer of uncertainty, underscoring the need for a balanced and sustainable fiscal approach.

Navigating the Crossroads Towards an Inclusive Future: A decade under Modi’s leadership has left an indelible mark on India’s trajectory. As the nation contemplates the prospect of becoming the third-largest economy by 2037, it is imperative to go beyond economic indicators and assess the tangible improvements in the lives of citizens. The legacy of this decade will be measured not solely by GDP figures but by the inclusivity of progress.

The challenges and controversies encountered during this period demand a critical reassessment of policies. The need for data-driven governance, exemplified by the omission of the decadal Census, should serve as a clarion call for meticulous administrative planning.

The legacy of this decade lies not only in the halls of power but in the narratives of ordinary citizens, whose lives have been shaped by policies, controversies, and the ever-evolving landscape of a nation in transition.

As India stands at the crossroads, the efficacy of its leadership will be determined by the ability to navigate complexities, uphold democratic values, and address the diverse needs of its populace.

The future beckons with promise and challenges, and the true test lies in creating a narrative of progress that is truly inclusive and reflective of the aspirations of a billion-strong nation.

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