The mandate delivered by the Indian public during this Lok Sabha election is a landmark moment in Indian political history. The National Democratic Alliance (NDA), spearheaded by the BJP, secured 292 seats, exceeding the majority mark of 272 by 20 seats. In a notable shift, the opposition INDIA coalition garnered 234 seats, 38 short of the majority. For the first time since 2014, the BJP fell short of a majority on its own, achieving 240 seats—considerably fewer than the record 303 seats it clinched five years ago. Despite this, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made history with a hat trick of consecutive wins since 2014, poised to match Jawaharlal Nehru's record by taking the oath for the third consecutive term as PM. This election marks the first occasion since 1962 where a party at the Centre, after completing two full five-year mandates, will form its third straight government.
Mr Modi, seen here at the launch of his party manifesto in April 2024, is eyeing a historic third term in a row
List of schemes by the Modi government for Women
Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (Save the Girl, Educate the Girl): The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) Scheme, inaugurated on January 22nd, 2015, seeks to combat the decreasing Child Sex Ratio (CSR) and associated challenges in empowering girls and women throughout their lives. Its goals include preventing gender-based sex-selective elimination, safeguarding the survival and welfare of female children, and ensuring their access to education and participation.
Stand Up India: This program offers financial assistance and guidance to female entrepreneurs, empowering them to establish their own businesses and achieve economic self-sufficiency.
Skill India Mission: This initiative aims to provide women with skills that are relevant to various industries, enhancing their employability and competitiveness in the job market.
One-Stop Centre (OSC) Scheme: These facilities provide comprehensive assistance to women impacted by violence, encompassing medical care, legal aid, and therapeutic counseling.
Women Helpline (181): This round-the-clock hotline offers prompt support to women facing distress, linking them with appropriate services and authorities.
Mahila Police Volunteers (MPVs): These volunteers advocate for women's safety and collaborate with law enforcement to guarantee their protection in public areas.
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana: This program incentivizes parents to save for their daughters' future by providing appealing interest rates and tax advantages.
Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY): The Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) is a national initiative launched on January 1, 2017, aimed at providing financial support to pregnant and lactating mothers across the country. This scheme offers a conditional cash transfer program, excluding those already receiving similar benefits from the Central or State Governments, Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), or other prevailing laws. Eligible beneficiaries, excluding those employed by the government or receiving comparable benefits, are entitled to receive Rs. 5,000 in three installments during their pregnancy and lactation period, provided they meet specific nutritional and health criteria. Additionally, upon institutional delivery, beneficiaries receive further cash incentives in line with the Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY), totaling an average of Rs. 6,000 per woman.
Mahila Shakti Kendra (MSK): These centers serve as comprehensive hubs for women, offering them information and assistance regarding a variety of government schemes and initiatives, all in one place.
Ujjawala Scheme: The Ujjawala Scheme, enacted as a Centrally Sponsored Initiative, aims to combat trafficking by focusing on prevention and aiding in the rescue, rehabilitation, reintegration, and repatriation of victims subjected to commercial sexual exploitation.
Modiji’s ‘Lakhpati Didis’ PM Awas Yojana: In an effort to promote gender equality and honor the strength of women, the government led by PM Modi has embarked on ambitious endeavors aimed at providing women with empowered and fulfilling lives.
Recognizing the vital role that safe and stable housing plays in advancing the socio-economic status of women, the government introduced the PM Awas Yojana—an innovative initiative ensuring Housing for All. With a specific focus on women, the program acknowledges their unique challenges and vulnerabilities, striving to empower them by granting homeownership, thereby instilling a sense of security and ownership that can catalyze positive change in their lives.
A noteworthy aspect of PMAY is its provision for joint ownership of houses by women. This not only acknowledges women as equal partners within their families but also ensures they possess a tangible asset in their name. With over 4 crore houses sanctioned under the scheme, 70% of which are owned by women beneficiaries, affectionately referred to as "Lakhpati Didis" by the Prime Minister, the government endeavors to leave no woman behind, particularly widows, single women, and those from marginalized backgrounds.
This initiative holds particular significance in a country where women often encounter obstacles in asserting their property rights. By promoting joint ownership, PM Modi's administration fosters a culture of financial security among women.
Furthermore, the government has taken measures to ensure that the benefits of PMAY extend to women in both rural and urban areas. Additionally, the scheme encompasses not only the construction of new houses but also the improvement and expansion of existing ones, recognizing the diversity of women's living situations and addressing the various challenges they face, thereby ensuring inclusivity in the journey towards secure housing.
Beyond merely providing physical shelter, PM Modi’s government has implemented initiatives to enhance the overall living conditions of women. For instance, the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan has significantly impacted women's lives by ensuring access to clean and safe sanitation facilities, contributing to their safety, well-being, and dignity. Achieving 100% ODF-free status underscores the commitment to women's welfare. Furthermore, the 100% electrification of villages under SAUBHAGYA has rendered kerosene lamps obsolete, alleviating women from health-related crises and physical burdens associated with obtaining water and cooking fuel.
Moreover, government efforts such as the Jal Jeevan Mission, providing over 13 crore tap connections, and PM Ujjwala’s distribution of 9.6 crore LPG connections have liberated women from arduous tasks and health hazards. This has eliminated the need for women to travel long distances for water or inhale smoke from traditional kitchens.
Furthermore, initiatives like PM Mudra and Jan Dhan Yojana are empowering women economically, and promoting financial inclusion and independence.
The success stories emerging from these initiatives demonstrate their transformative impact on the lives of women. Women who were once confined to insecure and inadequate living conditions are now proud homeowners, actively contributing to the socio-economic development of their communities. This ripple effect is not only enhancing individual women's lives but also fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
PM Modi has always championed the power of women. Therefore, his government's commitment to ensuring housing security for women is pivotal in advancing the goal of gender equality and inclusive development. As these efforts progress, it becomes evident that the government envisions a secure and empowered India where every woman has a place to call home—a place where she can pursue her aspirations and contribute to the nation's progress.
How Modi Govt's 10-year Tenure Empowered “Annadatas”?
In addition to the impoverished, young individuals, and women, farmers, known as "annadata," are a significant demographic that the Narendra Modi administration places particular emphasis on. Prime Minister Modi has unequivocally stated that these four segments of Indian society will always receive his utmost attention, with government initiatives and policies tailored to prioritize their well-being.
PM Modi has championed the term "annadatas" to refer to Indian farmers, reflecting the government's commitment to their welfare. Under his stewardship, the government has introduced various programs aimed at enhancing the livelihoods of farmers, encompassing financial stability, skill enhancement, access to markets, and the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices. Some of these schemes are:
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)
PM-Kisan, launched in 2019, is a program aimed at providing income support to small and marginal farmers. Through this initiative, qualifying farmers receive Rs 6,000 per year distributed in three equal payments. This endeavor has notably augmented their earnings and enhanced their standard of living. Under the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi, financial aid is extended to 11.8 crore farmers, encompassing both marginal and small-scale agriculturalists.
Minimum Support Price (MSP)
The Government of India establishes a minimum support price (MSP) for 22 essential crops based on recommendations from the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP), input from state governments, and relevant central ministries/departments. In the 2018-19 union budget, the government introduced a predetermined principle to maintain MSP levels at one and a half times the cost of production. Consequently, MSPs for all mandated crops, including those for kharif, rabi, and other commercial crops, have been raised to ensure a minimum return of 50 percent over the all-India weighted average cost of production since the 2018-19 agricultural year.
Over the past decade, farmers have received approximately Rs 18 lakh crore as MSP for paddy and wheat crops, marking a 2.5-fold increase compared to the preceding 10 years before 2014. During the same period, farmers cultivating oilseeds and pulses have garnered over Rs 1.25 lakh crore as MSP.
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)
Introduced in 2016, the PMFBY provides extensive crop insurance to farmers at reasonable premiums, guaranteeing prompt compensation for crop damage due to natural disasters, pests, or diseases. This initiative has provided financial stability to millions of farmers, protecting their livelihoods. Currently, crop insurance is extended to 4 crore farmers through the PM Fasal Bima Yojana.
Soil Health Card Scheme
Introduced in 2015, the Soil Health Card Scheme furnishes individualized soil health assessments to farmers, delivering essential information on soil nutrients and suggestions for optimal fertilization. Through the encouragement of effective soil management techniques, this initiative has bolstered crop yields, minimized expenses, and improved soil quality throughout agricultural areas. Since the fiscal year 2014-15, a cumulative of 8,272 soil testing laboratories have been set up nationwide. To date, 23.58 crore soil health cards have been disseminated to farmers.
e-NAM (electronic-National Agriculture Market)
Introduced in 2016, e-NAM stands as an electronic trading platform that unifies agricultural markets across India. It empowers farmers to sell their produce online, ascertain competitive prices, and engage with buyers nationwide. This digital forum has transformed agricultural commerce by eradicating middlemen, ensuring transparency, and granting equitable market entry to farmers. Currently, e-NAM encompasses 1,361 mandis, catering to 1.8 crore farmers, with a trading volume totaling 3 lakh crore. Additionally, approximately 8,000 Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) have been established thus far.
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samriddhi Kendras
Since its launch in August 2022 by the Department of Fertilizers, this initiative aims to offer a comprehensive range of agricultural inputs such as fertilizers, seeds, and pesticides at affordable rates through a single platform. Additionally, it offers soil testing facilities and advisory services to farmers, aiding them in enhancing their farming techniques and productivity. Presently, the government has set up over 175,000 Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samriddhi Kendras as part of this program.
Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana
This comprehensive initiative encompasses various ongoing programs of the ministry such as Mega Food Parks, Integrated Cold Chain and Value Addition Infrastructure, and Food Safety and Quality Assurance Infrastructure. Known as the Scheme for Agro-Marine Processing and Development of Agro-Processing Clusters (SAMPADA), it has significantly impacted the agricultural sector. Under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana, 38 lakh farmers have benefited, while it has also facilitated employment for 10 lakh individuals. The Modi government is actively encouraging both private and public investment in post-harvest activities, including aggregation, modern storage, efficient supply chains, primary and secondary processing, as well as marketing and branding.
Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY)
Launched in 2015, PMKVY endeavors to offer skill development to farmers and young people in rural areas. Administered by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), this initiative has positively impacted more than 40 million farmers and rural youth, arming them with crucial agricultural expertise, enhancing productivity, and creating avenues for employment.
Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana
A comprehensive plan aimed at fostering the Blue Revolution in India by promoting sustainable and accountable growth within the fisheries industry, involving an anticipated investment of Rs 20,050 crore. This initiative targets the holistic advancement of the fisheries sector, encompassing the well-being of fisherfolk.
Schemes for Dairy Development and Animal Husbandry
India holds the title of being the globe's foremost milk producer, yet faces challenges in enhancing the productivity of its dairy animals. This initiative will leverage the achievements of ongoing endeavors like the Rashtriya Gokul Mission, National Livestock Mission, and Infrastructure Development Funds dedicated to dairy processing and animal husbandry.
Top 10 Guarantees of Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi exemplifies robust and decisive leadership, consistently delivering on his promises. His assurance, known as "Modi ki Guarantee," spans various sectors, benefiting citizens through numerous schemes. This guarantee signifies an unwavering dedication to the well-being of the populace, aiming for a developed and superior India. It pledges to foster youth development, women's empowerment, farmer welfare, and support marginalized communities neglected for years.
Welfare Guaranteed
Starting with the most essential needs, the Modi government has implemented flagship welfare programs to reach even the most impoverished segments of society. Under the PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, 80 crore people receive free food grains, lifting 25 crore individuals out of multi-dimensional poverty. This initiative ensures that no one goes to bed hungry.
In its pursuit to provide shelter for all, the Modi government has initiated the "Housing for All" scheme through PM Awas Yojana, benefiting millions in both urban and rural areas. Presently, over four crore houses have been approved under this program, along with achieving 100% electrification of villages. Furthermore, the Jal Jeevan Mission ensures access to safe and potable tap water for over 14 crore rural households.
"Health for All" is ensured through the PM Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), the world's largest government-funded health insurance plan, covering nearly 55 crore individuals from 12 crore vulnerable families. This scheme acts as a safeguard against medical emergencies, preventing the poor and vulnerable from falling into debt traps.
The Modi government remains dedicated to inclusive development and bolstering resilience among vulnerable and marginalized communities. For instance, the PM JANMAN initiative, with a funding of Rs. 24,000 crore, aims to saturate government schemes among particularly vulnerable tribal groups (PVTGs), improving their access to basic amenities and enhancing overall socio-economic indicators.
Empowering the Annadatas
PM Modi's dedication to farmers' well-being is evident through the significant rise in the agriculture budget, which has reached Rs. 1.27 lakh crore in 2024-25, marking a remarkable 300% increase since 2014-15. The PM-KISAN scheme has provided assistance to over 11 crore farmers, totaling Rs. 2.6 lakh crore. Furthermore, the government actively supports farmers in transitioning into entrepreneurs, with the emergence of 7,000 vibrant agricultural and allied startups.
In addition, the focus on ethanol blending, continuous credit access via Kisan Credit Cards, and the effective implementation of the PM Fasal Bima Yojana, which has paid out Rs. 1.5 lakh crore in claims, have established a safety net for farmers. The unprecedented production of millets and the integration of technologies like e-NAM underscore the commitment to agricultural advancement.
Nari Shakti: Ahead & Beyond
Under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, India is dedicated to fostering growth driven by women. Programs such as Jan Dhan Yojana have facilitated the opening of bank accounts for 280 million women for the first time, while nearly 310 million MUDRA loans have been disbursed to women. A million Lakhpati Didis are already reshaping rural India. The abolition of Triple Talaq marks a significant turning point for Muslim women. Furthermore, the success of initiatives like PM Ujjwala Yojana, which has provided ten million LPG connections, has empowered women, showcasing the government's commitment to their rights and well-being.
Efforts on rural sanitation, menstrual hygiene management, and schemes like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao contribute to fostering a more inclusive and gender-sensitive society. The Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam represents a monumental step forward in women's empowerment.
Vikas bhi Virasat bhi
Prime Minister Modi's administration isn't solely focused on progress; it's also dedicated to safeguarding and celebrating India's diverse cultural legacy. Initiatives like the development of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, the Ujjain Mahakal Corridor, the Char Dham project, and the construction of the long-awaited Shri Ram Mandir, alongside the revitalization of Ayodhya as a global spiritual hub, exemplify this commitment.
Furthermore, the government's endeavors to promote spiritual tourism through programs like PRASHAD and Swadesh Darshan, coupled with the successful repatriation of 344 antiquities and the inclusion of 10 sites in UNESCO's World Heritage List within nine years, have bolstered India's spiritual and cultural stature.
As India moves forward into a new era, the installation of the Sengol in the newly constructed Parliament symbolizes a harmonious blend of India's rich cultural traditions and contemporary aspirations.
A Promising Ecosystem for the Amrit Peedhi
Acknowledging India's youthful potential, Prime Minister Modi has pledged their empowerment through a range of initiatives. With India now ranking as the world's third-largest startup ecosystem, boasting over one lakh startups, the PM Mudra Yojana has facilitated credit access for 8 crore first-time youth entrepreneurs. Additionally, India's digital economy has generated six crore jobs between 2014 and 2019. The establishment of 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs and the provision of assured remuneration to 1.4 crore individuals under PM Kaushal Vikas Yojana have further empowered countless young individuals, leading to a reduction in unemployment rates from 5.8% in 2018-19 to 3.2% in 2022-23.
Furthermore, the emphasis on digital literacy, increased enrollment in higher education, and the implementation of the National Education Policy 2020 underscore a commitment to nurturing a skilled and knowledgeable youth populace.
Middle Class Emerges a Winner
Under the leadership of PM Modi, the middle class has become a pivotal force in India's economic progress. Key factors such as extensive infrastructure development, including the expansion of metro networks and the introduction of Vande Bharat trains, tax exemption up to Rs. 7 lakh, and various initiatives in the housing sector like RERA, PM Awas Yojana, and the SWAMIH investment fund, have all contributed to the expansion of the middle class, which now comprises 31% of the total population as of 2021-22.
The Aatmanirbhar Bharat Rozgar Yojana has supported 60 lakh beneficiaries, while AMRUT projects worth Rs. 82,222 crore have been initiated in 500 cities and towns nationwide. The notable increase in per capita income, rising from Rs. 79,118 in 2013-14 to Rs. 1.97 lakh in 2022-23, alongside the emergence of a neo-middle class, underscores the middle class's ascension as a significant beneficiary in India's developmental narrative.
Indian Economy: A Story that Inspires
Under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, India's economic journey has been truly remarkable. Once labeled as part of the 'Fragile Five,' India has now ascended to become the fifth-largest economy globally. During the period spanning from 2014 to 2023, it has attracted a record-breaking $596 billion in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). The consistent monthly revenues averaging Rs. 1.6 lakh crore from the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and the substantial growth of the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector, providing employment to over 15 crore people, underscore India's economic resurgence.
The implementation of initiatives like the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme and the 'Make in India' campaign has yielded a notable surge in exports, which reached $775 billion in the fiscal year 2022-23. Furthermore, effective measures to control inflation and the bolstering of public sector banks have played pivotal roles in fueling India's economic success story.
Digital India: A Model for the World
The technological and digital revolution in India exemplifies Prime Minister Modi's vision for a nation that embraces technology and connectivity. Programs like Digital India, BharatNet, and UPI have played a pivotal role in narrowing the digital gap, enhancing efficiency, and fostering inclusivity. Notably, UPI has gained international recognition, with countries like France, Singapore, UAE, Nepal, and Bhutan adopting UPI payments.
India's top rankings in fintech adoption and digital skills readiness underscore its rapid integration of 5G technology. Additionally, the emphasis on supercomputing and digital healthcare underscores the nation's dedication to technological progress.
Abrogation of Article 370: End of an Era of Exclusion
PM Modi has dismantled a system that deprived over 1.5 crore people in Kashmir of their rightful due. Between 1994 and 2004, there were over 40,000 instances of terrorism, but under the nine-year tenure of the Modi government, these occurrences plummeted by a staggering 70% to a mere 2,197. Similarly, civilian casualties decreased by 72%, and security forces' fatalities dropped by 59%.
Additionally, PM Modi has redirected the aspirations of Kashmiri youth. In 2010, there were approximately 2,654 incidents of stone pelting in J&K, resulting in 112 civilian deaths and 6,235 injuries to security personnel. However, not a single such incident was reported in 2023.
Following the revocation of Article 370, cinema halls reopened in J&K in 2021 after a hiatus of 30 years. Presently, four new theaters are operational, including a multiplex in Srinagar, with over 100 films being shot in J&K.
This move has facilitated the region's integration with the country, promoted inclusivity, stimulated industrial growth, attracted investments, and fostered an environment conducive to innovation in Jammu & Kashmir. PM Modi has delivered on his pledge of One Symbol, One Constitution, and One Bharat.
Bharat: A Vishwamitra in Making
Under the guidance of Prime Minister Modi, India's foreign policy has propelled the nation to unprecedented heights on the world stage. The unanimous endorsement of the New Delhi G20 Declaration, leadership roles in organizations such as ISA and CDRI, and significant contributions during the COVID-19 crisis (including supplying over 300 million vaccines to 101 countries) underscore India's emergence as a global leader.
Moreover, India's strides in digital technology, particularly in real-time digital payments, coupled with its impressive global rankings across various sectors, affirm its status as a pivotal player in international affairs.
Conclusion
In summary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's tenure has been characterized by a comprehensive and inclusive governance approach. From empowering farmers and women to fostering economic growth, preserving cultural heritage, and assuming leadership roles globally, the government's endeavors have laid the groundwork for a resilient, empowered, and internationally esteemed India. This reinforces PM Modi's assertion—Modi's guarantee means a guarantee of fulfilling every promise.
Over the past decade, many significant strides have been made in India, but there remains much to be done to ensure the country's growth and improve the lives of its citizens, regardless of their financial standing. The mixed election results underscore the public's desire for continuity, as well as their demand for further progress and reforms. As the BJP and its allies prepare for another term, the focus must remain on addressing economic disparities, enhancing infrastructure, and fostering inclusive development to uplift all sections of society. This election outcome not only reaffirms democratic values but also sets the stage for transformative changes that could steer India toward a more prosperous and equitable future.
As India continues its developmental journey, it becomes apparent that the vision of a Developed India by 2047 is not merely a slogan but a tangible reality shaping the destiny of a vibrant and dynamic nation.
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