The Transformative Leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Narendra Modi, India's prime minister, during a news conference with Olaf Scholz, Germany's chancellor, not pictured, at Hyderabad House in New Delhi, India, on Friday, Oct. 25, 2024. Scholz called for further diversification of the nation's trade as he looks to reduce the economy's dependence on China in favor of India. Photographer: Prakash Singh/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Since becoming the Prime Minister of India in 2014, Narendra Modi has left an indelible mark on the nation with his bold policies, visionary leadership, and efforts to make India a global powerhouse. Under his leadership, India has witnessed significant changes across economic, social, and geopolitical fronts. This blog takes a closer look at some of his key achievements and the changes he brought to India during his tenure.

Economic Reforms and Initiatives

  1. GST Implementation:
    One of the most significant economic reforms under PM Modi was the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in 2017. This unified India’s fragmented taxation system, simplifying tax structures for businesses and boosting inter-state trade.
  2. Make in India:
    Launched in 2014, the Make in India initiative aimed to transform India into a global manufacturing hub. By attracting foreign investment and promoting local industries, the campaign has created millions of jobs and increased India’s competitiveness in the global market.
  3. Startup India:
    Recognizing the potential of India’s youth, PM Modi introduced Startup India to promote innovation and entrepreneurship. This initiative provided funding, tax benefits, and mentorship to thousands of startups, making India the third-largest startup ecosystem in the world.
  4. Demonetization:
    In 2016, Modi made the historic and controversial decision to demonetize ₹500 and ₹1,000 currency notes to combat black money, counterfeit currency, and corruption. While opinions on its impact vary, it sparked widespread debates and pushed India towards a more digital economy.
  5. Digital India:
    The Digital India initiative aimed to improve internet connectivity, promote e-governance, and bridge the digital divide. Today, India boasts one of the largest numbers of internet users in the world, empowering citizens with access to online services.

Infrastructure Development

  1. Bharatmala and Sagarmala Projects:
    Modi’s government prioritized infrastructure development with the Bharatmala and Sagarmala projects. These initiatives focused on building roads, highways, and ports to improve connectivity and boost trade.
  2. High-Speed Rail (Bullet Train):
    Modi spearheaded India’s first bullet train project in partnership with Japan. The Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor promises to revolutionize rail transport in India.
  3. Electrification of Villages:
    PM Modi fulfilled the promise of electrifying all Indian villages by 2018. This milestone improved the quality of life for millions living in rural areas.
  4. Smart Cities Mission:
    The Smart Cities Mission was launched to modernize urban infrastructure, making cities sustainable, efficient, and citizen-friendly through technology and innovative planning.

Social Reforms and Public Welfare

  1. Swachh Bharat Abhiyan:
    Launched in 2014, the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission) aimed to eliminate open defecation and improve sanitation across the country. This campaign resulted in the construction of millions of toilets and increased awareness of hygiene.
  2. Jan Dhan Yojana:
    Modi’s Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana brought financial inclusion to millions by opening over 500 million bank accounts for the underprivileged, ensuring access to banking, credit, and insurance services.
  3. Ujjwala Yojana:
    The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana provided free LPG connections to millions of households, especially in rural areas, reducing dependence on traditional cooking fuels like wood and coal.
  4. Ayushman Bharat:
    Dubbed the world’s largest health insurance scheme, Ayushman Bharat provided free medical coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family annually, benefiting millions of low-income families.
  5. Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao:
    This campaign aimed to improve the status of girls in society by addressing issues like female infanticide and promoting education for girls. It has significantly raised awareness about gender equality in India.

Geopolitical Achievements

  1. Strengthening Global Relations:
    Modi’s diplomacy brought India closer to key global players like the United States, Japan, Russia, and Australia. His efforts to strengthen India’s position in international forums like the G20, BRICS, and QUAD have been widely lauded.
  2. Leadership in Climate Change:
    Under PM Modi, India emerged as a global leader in climate action. The International Solar Alliance was launched to promote renewable energy, reflecting India’s commitment to sustainable development.
  3. Abrogation of Article 370:
    In 2019, the Modi government abrogated Article 370, revoking Jammu and Kashmir’s special status. This move aimed to integrate the region fully with India, although it sparked international debate.

Cultural and Religious Initiatives

  1. Ram Mandir in Ayodhya:
    After decades of legal and political conflict, the construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya began during Modi’s tenure, fulfilling a long-standing demand of millions of Indians.
  2. Rejuvenation of Kashi Vishwanath Corridor:
    PM Modi initiated the redevelopment of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, transforming it into a grand spiritual and cultural center.

Challenges and Criticisms

While PM Modi’s leadership has been transformative, it has not been without challenges and criticism. Issues such as rising unemployment, agricultural distress (leading to the farmers’ protests), and the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic have drawn widespread attention. However, his ability to take bold decisions and implement ambitious projects continues to define his legacy.

Legacy of Narendra Modi

PM Narendra Modi’s tenure has undeniably brought significant changes to India’s social, economic, and geopolitical landscape. His emphasis on self-reliance (Aatmanirbhar Bharat), digital transformation, and infrastructure development has paved the way for a modern India. Whether one agrees with his policies or not, his leadership has sparked conversations, debates, and a sense of collective ambition for India’s future.

As history judges his time in office, one thing is clear: Narendra Modi has reshaped India in ways that will be felt for generations to come.

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