As India marks 11 years of Modi government, it’s time to take a comprehensive look at the policies, reforms, successes, and criticisms that have shaped Narendra Modi’s leadership. Since taking charge as Prime Minister in 2014, Narendra Modi has transformed the political landscape with bold initiatives, strong central leadership, and a vision of a “New India.”
Economic Growth and Reforms
One of the Modi government’s key areas of focus has been economic reform. Under Modi's leadership, India witnessed a slew of economic measures, including:
Demonetization in 2016 to curb black money
Introduction of GST (Goods and Services Tax) as a unified tax regime
Make in India to promote manufacturing
Startup India and Stand-Up India initiatives to boost entrepreneurship
Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India) campaign for local production and reduced import dependency
These reforms had mixed reactions but undeniably reshaped the economic discourse. Despite a pandemic-led slowdown, the Indian economy has recovered with a strong focus on infrastructure and digitization.
Social Welfare and Flagship Schemes
Over the past 11 years of Modi rule, the BJP-led government has launched several landmark welfare programs aimed at the underprivileged. Some key schemes include:
PMAY (Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana) – affordable housing
Ujjwala Yojana – free LPG connections for women
Swachh Bharat Abhiyan – sanitation and cleanliness
Ayushman Bharat – world’s largest healthcare scheme
PM-KISAN – direct income support to farmers
Jal Jeevan Mission – piped water to rural households
These schemes have enhanced Modi’s appeal among rural and low-income segments of the population, a key electoral strategy that continues to pay dividends.
Foreign Policy and Global Standing
India’s foreign policy has taken a proactive and bold turn under Modi’s leadership. Some significant developments include:
Strengthening strategic ties with the US, Japan, Israel, and France
Hosting global events like G20 India Presidency 2023
Countering China’s aggression through diplomacy and military readiness
Advocating for India’s permanent seat in the UN Security Council
Promoting the Indian diaspora and cultural diplomacy
Modi’s visits to over 60 countries and his personal rapport with world leaders have elevated India’s image globally.
Digital India and Infrastructure Development
The Digital India campaign is one of the most transformative efforts by the Modi government. It aims to bridge the digital divide and enhance governance efficiency.
Key achievements include:
UPI (Unified Payments Interface) and digital banking revolution
Common Service Centers (CSCs) in rural areas
Nationwide internet penetration through BharatNet
Rollout of 5G and smart city projects
Infrastructure-wise, India has seen the construction of highways, expressways, border roads, and the expansion of railways and metro projects. Mega initiatives like Bharatmala, Sagarmala, and Gati Shakti aim to integrate transport and logistics across the nation.
Challenges Faced by the Modi Government
While the BJP government under Modi has had many highs, it hasn’t been without controversy or challenges:
Unemployment concerns, especially among the youth
Farmer protests against the now-repealed farm laws
Handling of COVID-19’s second wave in 2021
Allegations of centralization and weakening of democratic institutions
Rising communal tensions and attacks on press freedom
Data privacy and concerns over surveillance
These issues continue to polarize public opinion and attract international attention.
Public Sentiment and Political Strategy
Despite criticism, Narendra Modi’s popularity remains high due to his image as a decisive and incorruptible leader. His party, BJP, has skillfully used social media, grassroots mobilization, and religious-nationalist themes to consolidate votes.
The Modi government performance is often measured more on its long-term vision than short-term metrics. The narrative of “Vikas” (development) combined with strong nationalistic appeal helps maintain political dominance.
FAQs
1. What are the key achievements of Modi government in 11 years?
Some major achievements include GST implementation, Digital India, Swachh Bharat, Ujjwala Yojana, Ayushman Bharat, and significant foreign policy strides.
2. What is Narendra Modi’s biggest reform?
The GST reform and the Digital India initiative are widely considered as Modi’s most impactful economic reforms.
3. How has India changed under Modi’s leadership?
India has seen a more centralized governance model, digital transformation, improved global image, and numerous welfare schemes targeting the poor.
4. What are the criticisms of the Modi government?
Key criticisms include unemployment, farmer unrest, press freedom issues, and handling of communal incidents.
5. How has the Modi government impacted foreign policy?
India has adopted an assertive foreign policy with increased global engagement, strategic alliances, and emphasis on national interest.
6. What is Modi’s vision for India?
Modi envisions a self-reliant, digitally empowered, developed India that is a global power by 2047 (India@100).
7. Has the Modi government helped rural India?
Yes, schemes like PM-KISAN, rural electrification, Ujjwala Yojana, and rural toilets have focused extensively on rural development.
8. What is Modi’s record on economic growth?
While growth was strong between 2014–2019, it was affected by global and pandemic-related factors, though recovery is now underway.
9. Has corruption reduced under Modi?
Modi's government has maintained a strong anti-corruption image, though critics argue that transparency and institutional checks have weakened.
10. What to expect in Modi’s third term?
A push toward India becoming a developed nation by 2047, more infrastructure, AI and tech-driven governance, and a continued nationalist agenda.
Conclusion
Marking 11 years of Modi government, it's evident that Narendra Modi has significantly altered India's political and developmental trajectory. With a mix of bold reforms, welfare schemes, global diplomacy, and digital initiatives, the Modi era has been both transformative and polarizing. As India looks ahead to 2029 and beyond, the legacy of this period will depend on how the government addresses its challenges while sustaining growth and unity.
Whether one supports or critiques the Modi government, there is no denying that it has left a profound mark on India’s democracy, economy, and identity.
