PM: MODI

 Introduction 

The political journey of Narendra Damodardas Modi represents one of the most remarkable transformations in the history of Indian democracy. From his humble beginnings in Vadnagar, a small town in Gujarat, to rising as the most dominant political leader of the world’s largest democracy, Modi’s story is both inspirational and controversial. His leadership has not only redefined Indian politics but has also significantly influenced the nation’s economic, social, and international outlook. Since assuming office as the 14th Prime Minister of India in May 2014, Modi has emerged as a figure who evokes admiration and criticism in equal measure.

The global political stage has taken note of Modi’s strong and charismatic persona. Unlike many of his predecessors, Modi has consistently maintained a direct connection with the masses, using tools like social media, radio programs such as Mann Ki Baat, and large-scale public rallies to communicate his vision. His supporters describe him as a tireless leader who has restored India’s pride, strengthened its governance, and modernized its economic framework. His critics, on the other hand, argue that his politics has deepened religious and social divisions while concentrating power in the hands of the executive. Regardless of the perspective, few can deny that Modi has brought about a paradigm shift in the way India is governed and perceived.

Modi’s Rise from Gujarat to the National Stage 

Before becoming Prime Minister, Modi served as the Chief Minister of Gujarat from 2001 to 2014, where he built a reputation as a pro-development leader. Gujarat witnessed rapid industrial growth, improvements in infrastructure, and significant investment under his leadership. This model of governance—often referred to as the “Gujarat Model”—became a central theme of Modi’s national campaign in 2014. It promised efficiency, accountability, and a strong push for modernization, which resonated with millions of voters across the country.

His rise also coincided with growing disillusionment among citizens toward the ruling Congress Party, which had been mired in corruption scandals and accused of policy paralysis. Modi, with his powerful oratory skills and image as a self-made man from humble origins, offered a sharp contrast to the dynastic politics of the Congress. He projected himself as a leader who understood the struggles of ordinary citizens and promised to deliver decisive governance.

The 2014 Electoral Mandate 

The 2014 General Election was historic in more ways than one. Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured an absolute majority, the first time any single party had done so in three decades. The scale of the victory reflected not just the rejection of the incumbent government but also the hope and trust placed in Modi’s leadership. The slogan “Achhe Din Aane Wale Hain” (Good days are coming) became synonymous with the aspirations of millions of Indians who sought change.

This mandate was not just electoral—it was ideological. Modi’s vision combined economic modernization with cultural nationalism, appealing to both middle-class aspirations and grassroots emotions. His popularity transcended traditional barriers of caste, class, and region, making him a truly pan-Indian leader.

Modi’s Leadership Style 

One of the defining features of Modi’s governance is his leadership style. Unlike many coalition-era prime ministers who relied heavily on consensus-building, Modi has preferred a centralized and decisive approach. He is known for his ability to take bold, sometimes controversial decisions, such as the 2016 demonetization move, the abrogation of Article 370, and the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST). While such measures have often sparked heated debates, they underline his willingness to take risks in pursuit of transformative change.

Modi also emphasizes discipline, efficiency, and performance-driven governance. Bureaucrats under his government are often held to strict accountability standards, and ministries are expected to deliver results within clear timelines. His use of technology for governance—whether through digital payments, direct benefit transfers, or online platforms for citizen engagement—has been unprecedented in India’s history.

The Global Leader 

Narendra Modi is not only a domestic figure but also a global statesman. His foreign policy has been proactive, seeking to position India as a rising global power. Modi’s frequent international visits, high-profile interactions with world leaders, and participation in global forums have showcased India’s ambitions to play a greater role in shaping world affairs. He has often projected himself as a representative of the Global South, advocating for climate justice, renewable energy, and development partnerships.

A Polarizing but Transformative Figure 

Despite his global recognition and domestic popularity, Modi remains a deeply polarizing figure. For his supporters, he embodies hope, strength, and a new era of Indian assertiveness. For his critics, he represents a threat to India’s pluralistic and democratic traditions. This duality has come to define his legacy: he is admired for his transformative policies but also criticized for the social and political tensions that have arisen under his leadership.

Setting the Stage for an Era of Change 

The introduction of Modi’s tenure as Prime Minister sets the stage for a deeper exploration of his governance across different dimensions. From economic reforms to social welfare programs, from foreign policy achievements to domestic challenges, Modi’s leadership is a subject of immense significance. His tenure must be analyzed not only in terms of political victories but also in terms of the long-term impact on Indian society, economy, and democracy.

As we proceed to the next parts of this article, it is important to remember that Modi’s story is still being written. His influence over Indian politics and society is ongoing, and his policies continue to shape the destiny of more than a billion people. The following sections will therefore examine his journey as Prime Minister in detail—beginning with his early years in office, the reforms he introduced, and the challenges he faced.

The first term of Narendra Modi as the Prime Minister of India, from 2014 to 2019, was a period marked by immense expectations, bold reforms, and defining challenges. Having secured a historic mandate in the 2014 General Elections, Modi entered office with a promise of transformation—economic revival, corruption-free governance, and an era of “minimum government, maximum governance.” The years that followed would see a combination of sweeping initiatives, dramatic decisions, and a series of political maneuvers that shaped his image as a leader of action and determination.

Setting the Agenda: The Promise of Development 

When Modi assumed office in May 2014, India was emerging from a decade of United Progressive Alliance (UPA) rule led by the Congress Party. While the UPA government had initiated important welfare measures like the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) and Right to Information (RTI), it had also been discredited by allegations of corruption—ranging from the 2G spectrum allocation to the coal scam. Public frustration with inflation, unemployment, and policy paralysis was widespread. Modi’s campaign, built on the promise of efficiency and clean governance, struck a chord with millions of citizens.

His agenda during the initial years revolved around three broad themes:

Economic Growth and Reforms – Promoting investment, industry, and modernization. Social Welfare and Inclusion – Ensuring benefits for the poor, marginalized, and women. Good Governance and Transparency – Eliminating corruption and using technology for accountability. Major Initiatives and Reforms 

The hallmark of Modi’s early years was the launch of several flagship programs that targeted different sectors of the economy and society. Some of the most significant among them were:

1. Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (2014) 

Financial inclusion became one of Modi’s first priorities. The Jan Dhan Yojana aimed at providing every household with access to a bank account, insurance, and credit. Within a year, over 200 million accounts were opened—an unprecedented achievement in global banking history. This move also laid the foundation for direct benefit transfers (DBT), reducing leakage and corruption in welfare schemes.

2. Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (2014) 

Launched on October 2, 2014, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, this campaign aimed to make India clean and free of open defecation. Millions of toilets were constructed across rural and urban areas. While critics argued that behavioral change lagged behind infrastructure creation, the mission succeeded in making cleanliness a part of national consciousness.

3. Make in India (2014) 

Modi sought to turn India into a global manufacturing hub. The “Make in India” campaign encouraged both domestic and foreign companies to invest in India’s manufacturing sector. It emphasized job creation, skill development, and infrastructure growth. While the initiative had mixed results in the short term, it was an important signal of Modi’s industrial vision.

4. Digital India (2015) 

Recognizing the importance of technology, Modi launched the Digital India program to transform governance and empower citizens. It promoted digital payments, e-governance, and broadband connectivity in rural areas. The rise of Unified Payments Interface (UPI) later made India one of the leaders in digital transactions.

5. Goods and Services Tax (2017) 

One of the most significant economic reforms of independent India, the GST replaced a complex web of central and state taxes with a unified tax structure. Implemented in July 2017, it aimed to simplify taxation and create a common national market. Though its rollout faced initial technical glitches and compliance issues, GST eventually became a cornerstone of India’s tax framework.

6. Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (2016) 

To improve the quality of life for rural women, the Ujjwala Yojana provided free LPG connections to poor households. By 2019, over 70 million households had received benefits. This program not only promoted health and hygiene but also became a politically influential welfare measure.

The Bold Gamble:

 Demonetization of 2016 

Perhaps the most dramatic decision of Modi’s first term was the announcement on November 8, 2016, that high-value currency notes of ₹500 and ₹1,000 would cease to be legal tender. The stated objectives were to curb black money, counterfeit currency, and terrorism financing.

The move had immediate and far-reaching consequences. Long queues outside banks and ATMs, disruptions in the informal economy, and a sudden cash crunch impacted millions of people. While the government defended demonetization as a bold strike against corruption, economists debated its effectiveness. Official data later showed that over 99% of the demonetized currency returned to the banking system, raising questions about whether black money was truly eradicated. Nonetheless, the decision showcased Modi’s willingness to take risks and reinforced his image as a decisive leader.

Foreign Policy Initiatives 

During his first term, Modi placed strong emphasis on elevating India’s global standing. He traveled extensively, visiting countries across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. His foreign policy highlights included:

Strengthening strategic ties with the United States, particularly under Presidents Barack Obama and Donald Trump. Deepening partnerships with Japan, especially in infrastructure and defense. Building closer relations with Israel while maintaining ties with Arab nations. Launching the International Solar Alliance, positioning India as a leader in renewable energy. Focusing on neighborhood-first diplomacy, though relations with Pakistan remained tense due to cross-border terrorism. Political Consolidation and State Elections 

Apart from national governance, Modi’s leadership saw the BJP expand its political base across India. The party won several key state elections, such as Uttar Pradesh in 2017, consolidating its dominance. Modi’s charisma and appeal often overshadowed local leaders, making him the face of the BJP across the country.

Challenges and Criticism 

Despite ambitious reforms, Modi’s first term was not without criticism:

Job Creation: While the economy grew, employment generation lagged behind expectations, raising concerns about “jobless growth.” Agrarian Distress: Farmers faced challenges due to low crop prices and rising input costs, leading to protests in several states. Dissent and Freedom of Expression: Critics accused the government of curbing dissent and weakening institutions. Impact of Demonetization: The sudden move hurt small businesses and the informal economy, raising doubts about its long-term benefits. The 2019 Mandate: A Vote of Confidence 

Despite criticism, Modi’s first term ended with renewed popularity. Welfare programs like Ujjwala Yojana, Jan Dhan, and Swachh Bharat connected him with the masses. His tough image on national security, particularly after the 2016 surgical strikes and the 2019 Balakot airstrikes following the Pulwama terror attack, further boosted his credentials.

In the 2019 elections, the BJP won an even larger majority, securing 303 seats in the Lok Sabha. The victory was not just an endorsement of Modi’s policies but also a reflection of his ability to connect emotionally with voters.

The years 2014–2019 defined Modi’s rise as a transformative leader. His government initiated ambitious reforms, launched massive welfare schemes, and projected India as a rising global power. While controversies such as demonetization and GST implementation generated debates, his first term cemented his position as a decisive leader with unmatched political capital. This phase laid the foundation for the even bolder moves of his second term.

 Second Term and Major Reforms (2019–Present) 

Narendra Modi’s second term as Prime Minister of India, beginning in May 2019, represented a new phase of bold political decisions, ambitious reforms, and unprecedented challenges. Having secured a stronger mandate than in 2014—with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) winning 303 seats in the Lok Sabha—Modi entered his second tenure with confidence and authority. The overwhelming electoral victory gave him a freer hand to implement policies that had long been on the BJP’s ideological and political agenda. From constitutional changes in Jammu and Kashmir to the management of the COVID-19 pandemic, the years since 2019 have been among the most consequential in India’s modern political history.

The Historic Abrogation of Article 370 

On August 5, 2019, Modi’s government announced the abrogation of Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, which had granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir since 1947. The state was bifurcated into two Union Territories—Jammu and Kashmir with a legislative assembly, and Ladakh without one.

Supporters hailed the move as a long-overdue step toward integrating the region fully with India. It was portrayed as a measure to bring development, investment, and stability to Jammu and Kashmir. Critics, however, raised concerns over the suspension of civil liberties, prolonged security lockdowns, and the arrest of political leaders. The move also strained India’s relations with Pakistan, which strongly opposed it on international forums.

Despite criticism, the abrogation of Article 370 stood out as one of Modi’s most decisive and historic actions, aligning with the BJP’s long-standing ideological stance.

The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), 2019 

Later in 2019, Modi’s government passed the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), which offered a pathway to Indian citizenship for persecuted religious minorities—Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and Christians—from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh.

While the government argued that the law was humanitarian in nature, critics alleged that it discriminated against Muslims and undermined India’s secular foundation. The CAA, combined with proposals for a National Register of Citizens (NRC), triggered massive nationwide protests. The movement against CAA became one of the biggest challenges to Modi’s government, with both support and opposition sharply dividing public opinion.

Farm Laws and Farmers’ Protest (2020–2021) 

In 2020, Modi’s government introduced three major farm laws aimed at liberalizing the agricultural sector. The laws sought to allow farmers to sell produce outside government mandis (markets), encourage contract farming, and reduce middlemen.

While the government argued that the reforms would empower farmers and attract private investment, large sections of the farming community—particularly in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh—feared that the laws would weaken the Minimum Support Price (MSP) system and leave them vulnerable to corporate exploitation.

What followed was one of the longest and largest farmers’ protests in India’s history. After a year of demonstrations, negotiations, and clashes, the government repealed the farm laws in November 2021. The episode was seen as a rare retreat for Modi, highlighting the challenges of pushing through reforms without adequate consensus.

The COVID-19 Pandemic and Its Management 

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020 posed the greatest challenge of Modi’s second term. India went into one of the world’s strictest lockdowns in March 2020. While the lockdown was credited with slowing the initial spread of the virus, it also caused severe disruptions to the economy, especially for migrant workers and small businesses.

Modi’s leadership during the pandemic was marked by:

Relief Packages: The Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan (Self-Reliant India Mission) announced financial assistance for industries, farmers, and the poor. Vaccine Drive: India conducted one of the world’s largest vaccination campaigns, eventually administering billions of doses. The production of indigenous vaccines like Covaxin and large-scale manufacturing of Covishield positioned India as a global supplier of vaccines. Oxygen Crisis (2021): During the devastating second wave, India faced acute shortages of oxygen and hospital beds, leading to widespread criticism of the government’s preparedness. 

The pandemic highlighted both strengths and weaknesses in India’s governance—efficient vaccine rollout on one hand, and gaps in healthcare infrastructure on the other.

Atmanirbhar Bharat: The Push for Self-Reliance 

Launched in 2020, Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) became the centerpiece of Modi’s economic vision during his second term. The initiative aimed to reduce dependency on imports, promote domestic manufacturing, and encourage innovation.

It emphasized key sectors such as defense, technology, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy. Special economic packages, reforms in labor laws, and production-linked incentive (PLI) schemes were introduced to boost local industry. The initiative was also linked to Modi’s broader vision of making India a global manufacturing hub, similar to “Make in India” but with greater emphasis on resilience and self-sufficiency.

Infrastructure and Welfare Expansion 

Modi’s second term also saw continued focus on infrastructure and welfare schemes:

Expansion of PM Awas Yojana, targeting housing for all. Growth in Ayushman Bharat, providing health insurance for millions of families. Emphasis on renewable energy, with India emerging as a global leader in solar power generation. Investment in highways, metro rail projects, and airports under the Bharatmala and Sagarmala initiatives. National Security and Foreign Relations 

National security remained central to Modi’s image. The 2019 Balakot airstrikes, carried out just before the elections, had already cemented his strongman reputation. During his second term, tensions with China escalated, particularly after the Galwan Valley clash in 2020, where Indian and Chinese soldiers faced deadly confrontations.

Foreign policy highlights of this term included:

Strengthening ties with the United States, particularly in defense cooperation and technology. Playing an active role in the Quad alliance (India, US, Japan, Australia) to counterbalance China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific. Expanding ties with Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Positioning India as a leader of the Global South in climate negotiations and economic forums. Political Consolidation and Social Polarization 

Domestically, Modi continued to consolidate political dominance. The BJP expanded its influence in several states, though it also faced setbacks in some regional elections. His leadership style, highly centralized and personalized, made him the undisputed face of the party.

At the same time, debates on secularism, religious harmony, and freedom of expression grew sharper. Critics accused the government of stoking majoritarian politics, while supporters defended it as an assertion of India’s cultural identity.

Modi’s second term has been a period of transformative decisions and unforeseen challenges. The abrogation of Article 370, the CAA, and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives reflected his bold and ambitious governance style. The COVID-19 pandemic tested his government’s resilience, exposing weaknesses but also demonstrating India’s ability to deliver mass vaccination on an unprecedented scale.

While critics point to increasing polarization and challenges to democratic institutions, supporters argue that Modi’s leadership has given India both strength and direction. This phase of his tenure redefined the contours of Indian politics and will have long-lasting consequences for the country’s social fabric, economy, and global standing.