Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership over the past nine years has been marked by transformative policies, bold decisions, and commendable achievements that have significantly shaped India’s progress on both the domestic and international fronts. From economic reforms to diplomatic initiatives, his tenure has been characterized by a positive impact on the nation’s development.
One of the defining moments of his leadership was the demonetization drive in 2016. The decision to scrap high-value currency notes was a bold move aimed at bringing unaccounted wealth into the formal economy. Despite facing some challenges, he emphasized that this was part of a long-term structural transformation to boost the economy. The move had a profound impact, broadening the formal economy and encouraging digital transactions.
In the realm of taxation, the Goods and Services Tax (GST) introduced during his tenure stands as India’s most significant tax reform in 70 years. This unified tax system replaced numerous federal and state levies, simplifying the tax structure and bringing millions of businesses into the tax net. While implementation faced challenges, the GST aimed to streamline taxation, enhance compliance, and bolster government revenues, fostering a more transparent and efficient tax system.
A historic and noteworthy decision during his tenure was the revocation of Article 370 in 2019, stripping Jammu and Kashmir of its special status and bifurcating it into two union territories. This move aimed to integrate the region more closely with the rest of India, lifting restrictions on property purchases and challenging the reserved status of government jobs and college places for state residents. It was a significant step toward fostering development and inclusivity in the region.
The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), another policy initiative, grants Indian citizenship to persecuted non-Muslim minorities from neighboring countries. While it triggered discussions, supporters argue it provides refuge to those facing persecution. The passage of the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Act criminalized instant triple talaq, empowering Muslim women and curbing the practice of divorcing wives abruptly. The Prime Minister’s emphasis on social reforms aligns with his vision for an inclusive and progressive society.
Economically, his focus on self-reliance and the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative is evident. The attempt to reach a $5 trillion economy by 2025 faced challenges, but the emphasis on domestic production and innovation reflects a commitment to economic growth. The ‘PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan’ showcases efforts to enhance logistical performance and boost exports, contributing to job creation and infrastructure enhancement.
The construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, following a Supreme Court ruling, symbolizes the fulfillment of a longstanding promise by the BJP. This move is deeply intertwined with the party’s ideological roots and has garnered both support and positive discussions.
In the realm of sustainable development, programs like ‘Satat Bharat – Sanatan Bharat’ demonstrate a commitment to clean energy, disaster-resilient infrastructure, and eco-restoration. Similarly, the ‘Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan’ aims to boost rural employment and infrastructure, contributing to the well-being of communities.
Prime Minister Modi’s initiatives extend to global recognition, with awards such as the ‘Order of the Nile’ from Egypt being a testament to India’s diplomatic achievements during his tenure. Modi’s 13 international awards highlight his standing on the global stage, showcasing India’s increasing influence and positive contributions to international affairs.
In the United States, he was honored with the Legion of Merit, a testament to his outstanding services. Other honors from countries like Bhutan, Bahrain, Russia, the UAE, and Palestine highlight Modi’s diplomatic achievements. Additionally, prestigious awards from organizations such as CERA, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and the UN for environmental leadership and contributions to world peace showcase the diverse dimensions of Modi’s global recognition. These accolades collectively underscore the Prime Minister’s impactful leadership and India’s prominent role in international affairs.
In the realm of political empowerment, the recent passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill 2023 is a landmark achievement. Officially known as the 128th Constitutional Amendment Bill or Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, this legislation reserves one-third of the seats in the Lok Sabha, State legislative assemblies, and the Delhi assembly for women. Notably, the reservation also extends to seats earmarked for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in the Lok Sabha and State Legislatures. The Modi government’s commitment to gender equality and empowerment has garnered praise globally, with many acknowledging this move as a significant step toward fostering greater political representation for women across India.
The passage of this bill reflects the government’s dedication to fostering inclusivity and ensuring that women have a more prominent role in shaping the legislative landscape of the country.
His adept diplomacy has marked a notable positive shift in India’s relations with the Islamic world. For the first time, India has successfully cultivated positive diplomatic relations with Islamic nations, transcending historical and geopolitical complexities. His emphasis on economic cooperation, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic engagements has contributed to a more harmonious and collaborative relationship with several Islamic countries. The establishment of mutually beneficial partnerships in trade, technology, and counter-terrorism initiatives has played a crucial role in strengthening these newfound connections. Modi’s diplomatic overtures underscore a commitment to promoting global harmony and cooperation, reflecting a pragmatic approach in building bridges with the Islamic world during his government.
In Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s nine-year tenure, India has undergone a transformative journey marked by bold policies and remarkable achievements. The demonetization move in 2016 aimed at long-term structural transformation, broadening the formal economy. The introduction of GST in 2017 streamlined taxation, fostering transparency. Revoking Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir emphasized development and inclusivity.
Economically, India’s rise to the fifth-largest global economy in FY22 showcases sustained growth. Globally, his adept diplomacy has garnered prestigious awards, and India’s active participation in the G20 summit reflects its increasing influence on the world stage. Domestically, initiatives like ‘Satat Bharat – Sanatan Bharat,’ the Garib Kalyan Rojgar Abhiyaan, and the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan underscore a commitment to holistic development, job creation, and infrastructure enhancement. In healthcare, the focus on Ayush traditional medicines and the establishment of the Global Centre for Traditional Medicine position India as a key player in this sector.
His leadership has been widely acknowledged on the global stage, with numerous awards and honors conferred upon him. These recognitions highlight his diplomatic achievements and India’s growing influence in international affairs.
His leadership has been marked by a mix of bold policy decisions, economic reforms, and a vision for a self-reliant, inclusive, and globally recognized India. The achievements of his tenure are diverse, encompassing economic growth, diplomatic recognition, social reforms, and initiatives for sustainable development. While India continues on its trajectory of progress, the impact of his leadership will undoubtedly be a crucial chapter in the nation’s history.
(The Author is Professor and the Chairman, Centre for Narendra Modi Studies (CNMS), New Delhi www.namostudies.com, Email:[email protected]. Former Head & Group Editor, Roznama Rashtriya Sahara (National Urdu Daily) & Aalami Sahara TV (Urdu News Channel) Former Media Advisor, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh. Feedback: [email protected])
