THIS IS THAT : Naran Baraiya
Economic Developments
During Narendra Modi’s tenure as Prime Minister of India, a range of transformative economic policies have been introduced, significantly shaping the national economic landscape. These policies include major initiatives such as Make in India, Digital India, and the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST). Each initiative has aimed to bolster different sectors of the economy, promote manufacturing, enhance digital infrastructure, and streamline the tax regime.
Make in India, launched in 2014, sought to encourage domestic as well as foreign manufacturers to invest in India, thereby creating job opportunities and fostering innovation. This initiative aimed to increase the share of the manufacturing sector in GDP, targeting a broader economic base. On the other hand, Digital India aimed to transform the country into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy. This initiative has focused on enhancing digital infrastructure, promoting digital literacy, and fostering innovation, contributing to a stronger technological foundation for economic growth.
The implementation of GST in 2017 represented a significant shift in the Indian tax system, designed to streamline taxation and enhance the ease of doing business. The move was expected to create a unified market across the nation, reducing excessive taxation complexities and boosting revenue collection. This shift has been linked to improved GDP growth rates and a rise in foreign direct investment (FDI), reflecting a favorable investment climate.
However, the economic landscape has not been without challenges. High levels of unemployment and rising economic inequality have raised concerns regarding the sustainability of growth. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated these issues, leading to a sharp contraction in economic activity. In response, the government has undertaken various recovery efforts, including stimulus packages aimed at reviving sectors severely impacted by the pandemic. These initiatives underscore the ongoing balancing act between promoting growth and addressing socio-economic disparities.
Social Welfare Schemes
The Government of India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has launched several social welfare schemes aimed at transforming the socio-economic landscape of the country. Notable initiatives include the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission), and Ayushman Bharat (National Health Protection Scheme). Each of these programs targets specific issues, such as affordable housing, sanitation, and healthcare accessibility, striving to elevate the standard of living for myriad citizens across various strata of society.
The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana seeks to provide affordable housing to the urban poor, aiming for “Housing for All” by 2022. The scheme includes financial assistance to eligible beneficiaries to construct their homes, which has reportedly led to the construction of millions of houses. This initiative directly addresses housing shortages in urban areas, facilitating community development and improving living conditions.
Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, initiated to enhance sanitation and cleanliness, has been instrumental in promoting the construction of toilets and raising awareness about hygienic practices. This campaign has contributed significantly to the reduction of open defecation, particularly in rural areas, thus playing a vital role in public health and environmental sustainability.
Moreover, the Ayushman Bharat scheme aims to offer a health insurance cover of up to INR 5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary hospitalization. This initiative has transformed healthcare access for lower-income groups, eliminating financial barriers and ensuring that families do not face catastrophic health expenditures.
While these initiatives have been widely lauded, they are not without criticisms. Implementation challenges, budgetary constraints, and coverage gaps have raised concerns about the sustainability and effectiveness of these programs. As these social welfare schemes evolve, ongoing evaluation and adaptation are paramount to fully realize their potential in improving the quality of life for all citizens in India.
Political Landscape and Governance
The political landscape of India has undergone significant transformations under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. Since assuming office in May 2014, Modi, representing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has employed a distinctive governance style that intertwines assertive decision-making with a strong nationalist agenda. His leadership approach is characterized by a blend of charisma, strategic communication, and a robust use of social media, enabling him to galvanize support across various demographic segments.
One of the notable aspects of Modi’s governance has been the centralization of power within the executive branch, leading to a more streamlined decision-making process. This shift is evident in key legislative changes such as the Goods and Services Tax (GST) implementation and the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, both aimed at enhancing economic efficiency and national integration, respectively. These moves have sparked extensive debates within the Parliament and among the public, often highlighting the tension between progress and traditional values.
However, Modi’s tenure has not been devoid of challenges. The environment of political polarization has intensified during his administration, with the BJP often at the forefront of controversial policies that critics argue undermine democratic principles. The strife between the ruling party and various opposition groups has led to a scathing critique of Modi’s approach to dissent, raising concerns regarding the state of democracy in India. The opposition has continually sought to challenge the government on issues ranging from economic discrepancies to human rights, creating a vigorous yet often tumultuous political discourse.
As the Modi government navigates through these complexities, it remains imperative to assess how these political strategies and governance styles shape the broader socio-political fabric of India. The implications of such governance not only impact the immediate political climate but also reverberate throughout India’s democratic institutions, influencing the path ahead.
International Relations and Global Standing
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has embarked on a transformative journey in its foreign policy that has significantly altered its global standing. The approach has been characterized by a proactive engagement with key global powers, notably the United States, while also navigating complex relationships with China and neighboring South Asian countries. The Modi administration has sought to leverage India’s demographic and economic strengths to enhance its influence on the international stage.
One of the hallmark achievements of Modi’s foreign policy has been the strengthening of India’s ties with the United States. This relationship has progressed through various initiatives, including the signing of pivotal defense agreements and the deepening of trade relations. India’s participation in forums such as the Quad has emphasized its role as a counterweight to China’s growing assertiveness in the region. This partnership not only focuses on defense but also encompasses technology, climate change, and counter-terrorism, showcasing a multifaceted alignment with American strategic interests.
In contrast, relations with China have been marked by both cooperation and contention. While Modi has pursued initiatives to boost trade with Beijing, territorial tensions in the Himalayan region have strained these ties. Despite these challenges, India continues to engage with China on various multilateral platforms, emphasizing the need for diplomatic dialogue and stability.
In the context of South Asia, Modi’s foreign policy has also aimed at bolstering relationships with neighboring countries. This has included a mix of aid, investment, and cultural diplomacy, with a focus on strengthening ties with countries like Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal. Furthermore, India’s active participation in international forums such as G20 and BRICS highlights its commitment to addressing global challenges while asserting its voice in discussions affecting the global economic landscape.
