Eleven years ago, Narendra Modi assumed office as the Prime Minister of India, heralding what many perceive as a transformative era in the nation's political and socio-economic landscape. This period, often referred to as the "Modi Sarkar," has been characterized by significant policy shifts, ambitious initiatives, and a recalibration of India's position on the global stage. Examining the key tenets of this "new doctrine in action" provides valuable insights into the evolving nature of Indian governance and its impact on both domestic and international affairs.
One of the most notable aspects of Modi's tenure has been the emphasis on economic reforms aimed at fostering growth and development. Initiatives like "Make in India" and "Atmanirbhar Bharat" sought to enhance domestic manufacturing capabilities, attract foreign investment, and promote self-reliance. The introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) was a landmark reform intended to streamline the tax structure and promote economic integration. These efforts have contributed to India becoming the world's fourth largest economy. The Modi government has also focused on financial inclusion through schemes like the Jan Dhan Yojana and Direct Benefit Transfer, aiming to bring more people into the formal banking system and ensure efficient delivery of government benefits. From 2014 to 2022, India's GDP grew significantly. Looking ahead, compliance reforms are considered vital for achieving a $30 trillion economy by 2047.
However, this economic trajectory has faced challenges. While GDP growth has been notable, concerns remain about unemployment and income inequality. Some economists argue that job creation has not kept pace with economic expansion. Demonetization in 2016 and the initial implementation of GST were met with criticism and had short-term adverse effects on certain sectors. The government has introduced schemes like the Employment-Linked Incentive (ELI) to boost job creation and provide internships to young people.
Beyond economics, the Modi government has pursued a proactive foreign policy aimed at strengthening relationships with neighboring countries, engaging with global powers, and asserting India's role in multilateral forums. The "Neighborhood First" policy emphasizes closer ties with South Asian countries, while the "Act East" policy focuses on enhancing engagement with Southeast Asia and ASEAN. Modi's foreign policy is focused on improving relations with neighboring countries, engaging with Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and major global powers. India has also actively participated in global initiatives, such as the International Solar Alliance, and has sought to play a leadership role in addressing climate change and promoting sustainable development.
India's approach to national security has also undergone a transformation under Modi. The government has adopted a more assertive stance in dealing with cross-border terrorism and has demonstrated a willingness to use military force to protect its interests. Examples include surgical strikes and airstrikes conducted in response to terrorist attacks. This shift reflects a departure from India's traditional emphasis on non-alignment and a greater willingness to project power in the region.
Furthermore, the Modi government has placed significant emphasis on preserving India's cultural heritage and promoting its soft power. Initiatives like the "Swachh Bharat Abhiyan" (Clean India Mission) and the promotion of yoga and Ayurveda aim to enhance India's image and influence on the global stage. The government has also taken steps to protect and promote tangible and intangible heritage, recognizing its importance in shaping national identity and fostering tourism.
In conclusion, the 11 years of the Modi Sarkar have witnessed a significant shift in India's domestic and foreign policies. While the government has achieved notable successes in areas such as economic growth, infrastructure development, and foreign policy engagement, challenges remain in addressing unemployment, inequality, and social divisions. As India navigates an increasingly complex and uncertain world, the "new doctrine in action" under Modi's leadership will continue to shape the nation's trajectory and its role as a major global player.