Executive inaction? A critical review of the Modi 3.0 government in its infancy
Executive inaction? A critical review of the Modi 3.0 government in its infancy
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THIS IS AN ARTICLE WRITTEN PURELY AS AN OPINION OF CURRENT AFFAIRS BY THE AUTHOR
2 September 2024
Last Updated: 2 September 2024 - 21:30 CET
Chaitanya Nitin Harak
@ShubhamShuklaMP/X.com (Twitter.com)
In June 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, now embarking on his third term as leader of India, secured another majority government with the National Democratic Alliance, winning 293 of 543 seats. This victory came with a significant increase in support, adding 7 million more votes than in 2019, giving him a strong mandate to represent India’s best interests both at home and on the global stage. His first official engagement as Prime Minister Modi 3.0 is at the G7 summit in Italy, a key international event that had been confirmed even before the election results were declared.
He took numerous steps since assuming office in June 2024, navigating a complex landscape of domestic and international challenges. Modi’s leadership has been marked by both proactive initiatives and calculated restraint, depending on the situation. His selective engagement on various issues, whether choosing to act decisively or maintaining silence, has shaped India's stance on key matters. Domestically, his government has focused on economic reforms aimed at boosting growth and strengthening India's position as a global economic power. Internationally, Modi has pursued a balanced approach, ensuring India’s national security while cultivating strategic alliances that reinforce its growing influence on the world stage.
@TimesAlgebraIND/X.com (Twitter.com)
International Diplomacy: Expanding India’s Global Presence
International Diplomacy: Expanding India’s Global Presence
Strengthening Ties at the G7 in Italy
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first official international engagement in his third term took place at the G7 summit in Italy. This gathering of the world’s most influential democracies provided a crucial platform for Modi to present India’s priorities on key global issues such as climate change, digital transformation, and economic cooperation. His participation underscored India’s growing role in shaping global policies and reinforced its commitment to fostering multilateral partnerships. Modi’s diplomatic approach at the G7 highlighted India’s vision for a more interconnected and resilient world, where developing economies like India play an essential role in driving future growth.
Renewing Strategic Alliances with Russia and Austria
Furthering India’s strategic relations, Prime Minister Modi made a significant visit to Russia, where he held the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit with President Vladimir Putin. During this visit, Modi was awarded the prestigious Order of St. Andrew, Russia's highest state decoration. This honor signified the deepening ties between the two nations, with Modi also announcing the opening of two new Indian consulates in Kazan and Yekaterinburg. His interactions with the Indian diaspora in Moscow were a testament to India's effort to maintain strong connections with its global citizens. Following Russia, Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister in 41 years to visit Austria, where he held productive talks with President Alexander Van der Bellen and Chancellor Karl Nehammer. This visit highlighted India's intent to strengthen ties with European nations and explore new avenues for collaboration, particularly in trade and investment.
@narendramodi/X.com (Twitter.com)
Historic Diplomatic Moves in Poland and Ukraine
Prime Minister Modi's international diplomacy also extended to Poland and Ukraine, two key Eastern European nations. In a historic first in 45 years, Modi visited Poland, marking a milestone in India-Poland relations. However, it was his visit to Ukraine that drew significant global attention. As the first sitting Indian Prime Minister to visit Ukraine since its independence, Modi sought to play a constructive role in mediating peace amid the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian War. His meeting with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv was a bold diplomatic move, where he urged for an end to the conflict and offered India’s assistance in mediating peace talks. While President Zelenskyy acknowledged Modi’s efforts, he also emphasized the need for India to respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, signaling the complexities of international diplomacy in war-torn regions.
Navigating the Bangladesh Crisis
Amid political instability in Bangladesh, Prime Minister Modi faced a critical diplomatic challenge. In a show of solidarity, he granted temporary asylum to former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, reaffirming India’s commitment to supporting its allies. Despite tensions with the interim government, Modi maintained a calm and measured approach, safeguarding India’s security interests while avoiding direct confrontation. However, the government’s inaction in addressing violence against Hindus in Bangladesh, who face state-sponsored pogroms, reveals a gap in India’s regional strategy. This ongoing violence against minorities highlights the need for more decisive action to protect vulnerable communities.
Domestic Challenges: Governance Amid Complex Issues
Domestic Challenges: Governance Amid Complex Issues
Implementation of New Laws: A Cultural Shift with Gaps in Enforcement
The Modi 3.0 government is seeing the enactment of several key laws, originally introduced during his previous term. These include the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, and Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, all reflecting a significant shift toward strengthening India’s legal and cultural framework. However, while these laws symbolize a broader alignment with India's domestic values, their enforcement remains inconsistent. Questions have arisen about the government's willingness to address internal instability, as the lack of effective implementation threatens to undermine the potential impact of these reforms.
Reasi Attack: Limited Response from the Center
Although the abrogation of Article 370 and 35A has reduced the terror landscape in Jammu and Kashmir, incidents like the Reasi attack highlight the persistent threat of terrorism in the region. Despite the active efforts of security forces in neutralizing threats, the central government’s inaction on public outcry following such attacks has raised concerns. The absence of new policies to streamline anti-terrorism efforts underscores the government's reluctance to take more proactive steps in addressing ongoing security challenges.
Punjab: The Rise of Narcoterrorism and Gang Violence
Punjab's escalating narcoterrorism and gang warfare crisis is a growing concern. Over the past half-decade, the state has witnessed a surge in violence linked to drug cartels and criminal gangs, yet the Union government has shown a notable reluctance to confront the issue. The pushback against extending the powers of the Border Security Force (BSF) and other security measures has raised questions about the government's strategy. Observers fear that continued inaction could lead to a resurgence of insurgency similar to the 1980s, threatening national stability.
Constitutional Breakdown in West Bengal
The chaotic scenes in West Bengal, where Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee protested against her own police forces, have raised alarms about the breakdown of constitutional machinery in the state. Despite this crisis, the Union government has refused to intervene, even as concerns mount over law and order. Whether due to coalition politics or an unwillingness to act, the central government’s hesitation has sparked criticism. Many believe the government should have used its constitutional powers to restore order and uphold governance standards in the state.
Manipur: Ignoring the Kuki Insurgency
In Manipur, the rise of Kuki insurgency and narcoterrorism has brought the state's security situation into sharp focus. Despite ongoing unrest, the Modi government has been notably silent, neither addressing the issue in parliament nor engaging in public dialogue. This lack of attention has raised serious concerns about the government's priorities and its commitment to tackling insurgencies. The absence of decisive action in Manipur suggests a disconnect between the government's rhetoric on national security and its actions on the ground.
File photo of UNLF cadres/ANI
The Waqf Bill 2024: A Promise of Action
The introduction of the Waqf Bill 2024 is seen as a reflection of Modi's mandate to safeguard the interests of India's majority population. Many anticipate that the bill will be passed in the winter session of Parliament, signaling the government's commitment to enacting legislation in line with its electoral promises. This move reassures Modi’s supporters that despite leading a coalition government, he remains determined to push forward with his agenda, showing renewed vigor and determination in his third term.
Economic and Infrastructure Policies: Ambitions and Challenges
Economic and Infrastructure Policies: Ambitions and Challenges
Vadhavan Port: A Landmark Investment
The Vadhavan Port project, a colossal investment of ₹72,000 crore, represents one of the most ambitious infrastructure undertakings of the Modi 3.0 administration. Designed to enhance India’s maritime capabilities and boost trade efficiency, this long-term project is expected to significantly improve the country’s port infrastructure. While it promises to bolster economic growth and regional connectivity, the successful implementation of Vadhavan Port will be crucial in determining its long-term impact on India’s logistics and trade sectors.
Tax Reforms 2024: A Comprehensive Overhaul
The tax reforms introduced in 2024 include revised tax slabs, adjustments to capital gains tax, and changes to Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) regulations. These reforms aim to simplify the tax structure, make it more equitable, and increase compliance. By addressing various aspects of taxation, the government seeks to enhance revenue collection and provide relief to taxpayers. However, the effectiveness of these reforms will hinge on their implementation and the broader economic context in which they are applied.
Infrastructure Investments Through Interim Budget 2024-25
The interim budget for 2024-25 has earmarked notable investments in infrastructure, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing the country’s economic backbone. This funding is directed towards various projects designed to modernize and expand India’s infrastructure base, supporting both urban and rural development. While these investments are essential for fostering economic growth, the challenge will be in ensuring that they are allocated efficiently and lead to tangible improvements in infrastructure quality and connectivity.
NHAI Investments: Transforming Road Infrastructure
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is spearheading massive investments in road infrastructure, including the ambitious “quadrilateral model” aimed at connecting major cities across the country. This initiative is designed to enhance national connectivity, reduce travel times, and stimulate economic activity. Despite the scale of this investment, questions persist regarding the speed of project completion and the management of ongoing road maintenance, which will be critical in realizing the full benefits of these infrastructure enhancements.
Chenab Rail Bridge: Bridging Remote India
The Chenab Rail Bridge is a monumental engineering achievement aimed at connecting some of India’s most remote regions. By linking far-flung parts of the country, this bridge is expected to facilitate better transportation and stimulate economic development in underserved areas. Nevertheless, the success of this project will depend on its timely completion and the integration of the bridge into the broader rail network, which will require ongoing attention to maintenance and operational efficiency.
Vande Bharat and Rail Infrastructure Push: Ambitions vs. Shortfalls
The Vande Bharat Express and other rail infrastructure initiatives represent a significant push to improve connectivity for India’s middle class. These projects are intended to modernize the rail network and enhance passenger experience. However, major shortfalls in maintenance and operational effectiveness have raised questions about the efficacy of the rail infrastructure push. The effectiveness of the Minister of Railways and the government’s ability to address these issues will be crucial in ensuring that these advancements translate into long-term benefits for passengers.
Atal Setu: A Landmark with Maintenance Concerns
Atal Setu stands as a testament to the government's infrastructure ambitions, marking a significant advancement in connectivity. Despite its importance, the project has faced scrutiny regarding maintenance and continuous development. The lack of ongoing attention to the upkeep of infrastructure projects like Atal Setu highlights a broader issue of sustaining development efforts and addressing maintenance challenges, which are essential for ensuring that such investments deliver lasting value to the public.
Conclusion: Navigating Uncertainty and Hope in Modi 3.0
Conclusion: Navigating Uncertainty and Hope in Modi 3.0
While the Modi 3.0 administration is still in its early stages, it is already confronting significant questions about the BJP-led NDA's capacity to tackle some of the nation's most pressing issues. The electorate's continued support for Modi, reflected in his third term, signals a strong mandate but also sets a high bar for delivering on promises. There is cautious optimism surrounding key legislative efforts like the Waqf Bill, which could mark a positive step forward. Nevertheless, lingering doubts about the government's effectiveness and its ability to address various challenges remain. Despite these uncertainties, India's past experiences with this administration offer a glimmer of hope. Many expect that with focused efforts and strategic execution, the government will meet the expectations set by the 2024 general elections. The hope is that, by 2025, India will emerge stronger and more resilient, achieving the vision and goals outlined during this critical period. The task before the current administration is substantial, but the potential for progress continues to inspire confidence.
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