A third term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi seems assured as the NDA hovers around the 300 mark. However, the day also belongs to the resurgent Opposition, which exceeded the modest expectations set by exit polls, showcasing a stronger than anticipated performance and challenging the political landscape.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (Photo: India Today)
Modiji Thanks Voters for Historic Victory
Addressing the nation from the BJP's headquarters in Delhi after it became clear the party would form the new government, albeit with crucial support from NDA partners, Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked voters and declared, "Today's victory (is) a victory of the world's biggest democracy."
The BJP, which aimed for 370 seats and set the NDA a target of 400-plus, appears to be falling short, largely due to underperformance in key states.
BJP Falters in Uttar Pradesh
The BJP's ambitions were significantly derailed in Uttar Pradesh, a crucial state that sends 80 lawmakers to the Lok Sabha. By 8 pm, the BJP was leading in only 32 seats, while the INDIA bloc, composed of the Samajwadi Party and the Congress, was ahead in 44 seats. This marks a sharp decline from the BJP's sweeping victories in 2014 and 2019, where they dominated the state. Despite exit polls predicting an edge for the BJP, the heartland state proved challenging.
Mixed Results in Battleground States
Other key battleground states also presented mixed results for the BJP. In West Bengal, the party was leading in only 11 seats by 3 pm, a drop from their 2019 performance, as Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress recovered lost ground and led in 31 seats. In Maharashtra, political dynamics within the Shiv Sena and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) influenced outcomes. The Uddhav Thackeray faction led in 11 seats, while Shinde Sena and the Ajit Pawar faction trailed with fewer leads. The BJP and Congress were neck and neck with 12 and 11 seats, respectively.
Gains in Southern States Offset Losses
The BJP's setbacks were partially offset by gains in southern states like Odisha, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. In Andhra Pradesh, Chandrababu Naidu's party was heading for a landslide victory, leading in 158 of 175 constituencies. Sources indicated the oath ceremony would take place on June 9. In Odisha, the BJP achieved a significant victory, ending the 25-year dominance of Naveen Patnaik's Biju Janata Dal.
What was the result in 2014 & 2019?
In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, pollsters predicted that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) would secure around 285 seats. Defying expectations, the NDA won a staggering 353 seats, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) alone claiming 303 seats. Meanwhile, the United Progressive Alliance (UPA), led by Congress, managed only 93 seats, with the Congress party itself securing 52. This outcome was reminiscent of the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, where forecasts had projected 257-340 seats for the NDA, but the alliance ultimately secured 336 seats, marking the beginning of Narendra Modi's first term as Prime Minister.
Prime Minister's Assurance to the Nation
"People have placed their faith in NDA, for a third consecutive time! This is a historical feat in India's history. I bow to the Janata Janardan for this affection and assure them that we will continue the good work done in the last decade to keep fulfilling the aspirations of people," PM Modi tweeted.
The Prime Minister's message reflected gratitude and a commitment to continue pursuing the coalition's developmental agenda.
Intense Campaign and Wrong Exit Poll Predictions
The election campaign was intense and protracted, with voter sentiment difficult to gauge. Three exit polls predicted a 400-plus score for the BJP-led NDA, while others varied only in the margin of victory, predictions the Opposition dismissed. Exit polls in India have had a mixed track record. The BJP's campaign, launched early, focused on development, the economy, and a vision for the 100-year anniversary of Independence, bolstered by achievements like the abrogation of Article 370 and the construction of the Ayodhya Ram temple.
Opposition's Resurgence
In contrast to 2019, the Opposition showed greater cohesion and strategy, despite some initial instability and internal contests, such as Congress vs. Trinamool in Bengal and Congress vs. AAP in Punjab. The Opposition's narrative on constitutional changes and reservation resonated with voters, contributing to their stronger-than-expected performance.
PM Modi’s Reaction
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s reaction to the election results was one of gratitude and commitment.
“People have placed their faith in NDA, for a third consecutive time! This is a historical feat in India’s history,” he said.
Modi’s statement underscores the magnitude of this victory, as it is rare for any party to achieve such sustained success in Indian politics.
The election results signify more than just a win for the BJP and its allies; they represent a continued endorsement of Modi’s vision and policies. Over the past decade, the NDA government has implemented numerous reforms and initiatives aimed at transforming India’s socio-economic landscape. The electorate’s decision to grant them another term is a clear mandate to continue on this path of development.
Modi’s Gratitude to the Nation
Expressing his heartfelt thanks, Modi took to X (formerly Twitter) to address the nation.
“I bow to the Janata Janardan for this affection and assure them that we will continue the good work done in the last decade to keep fulfilling the aspirations of people,” he wrote.
This statement highlights Modi’s acknowledgment of the people’s trust and his commitment to serving their needs and aspirations.
Modi’s words reflect a sense of responsibility and a promise to maintain the momentum of progress. His focus on fulfilling the aspirations of the people is central to his governance philosophy, which has always emphasized inclusive development and national growth.
In his reaction, Modi also extended his gratitude to the BJP Karyakartas (party workers), acknowledging their relentless efforts and dedication.
“I also salute all our Karyakartas for their hard work. Words will never do justice to their exceptional efforts,” he added.
This recognition of the grassroots workers’ contributions is a testament to the organizational strength of the BJP and its robust network across the country.
The Karyakartas have played a crucial role in mobilizing support, organizing campaigns, and ensuring voter turnout, thereby contributing significantly to the party’s success. Modi’s acknowledgment serves to boost their morale and reaffirm their importance in the party’s continued achievements.
Reflecting on the Past Decade
Over the past decade, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership has brought significant reforms across various sectors, profoundly transforming India. Key initiatives like the Goods and Services Tax (GST), Make in India, Digital India, and the Ayushman Bharat health scheme stand out as examples of his government's commitment to modernization and economic growth. These policies have not only streamlined taxation and boosted manufacturing but also propelled the country towards a digital future, improving the quality of life for millions of citizens.
Modi's tenure has been marked by a relentless focus on modernizing India's infrastructure and enhancing digital connectivity. The government's efforts have included ambitious infrastructure projects and initiatives aimed at driving economic growth. Additionally, Modi's foreign policy strategies have sought to elevate India's global standing through strengthened international partnerships and strategic alliances. These comprehensive reforms and diplomatic efforts underscore the transformative impact of Modi's governance, positioning India as a rising power on the global stage.
Track record of Modi Ji Led BJP
Transitioning from being part of the 'Fragile Five' in 2013, India has emerged as the world's fifth-largest economy, witnessing a remarkable growth trajectory under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. Since 2014, India's GDP has surged by an impressive 162%, while the average income has more than doubled, reflecting a 135% increase. The country's foreign exchange reserves have also seen a significant rise, jumping from $290 billion to $620 billion. This economic transformation has been bolstered by initiatives like demonetization and the subsequent surge in internet usage, leading to an exponential increase in UPI transactions from 2,071 crore in 2018 to over 9,500 crore currently.
The Modi government has placed a strong emphasis on digital and financial inclusion, driving a 197% increase in savings deposit accounts. The Jan Dhan Yojana scheme, in particular, has provided direct financial benefits to millions of citizens, ensuring greater financial security. Additionally, transformative schemes like Ayushman Bharat, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, and PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi have directly benefited farmers and the economically disadvantaged. The introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in 2017 under the 'One Nation, One Tax' initiative has revolutionized India's tax system, with annual GST revenue now exceeding 20 lakh crore. The new tax regime introduced in the 2020 budget further streamlined the taxation process, fostering economic growth.
India's infrastructure development has seen unprecedented growth, with national highways expanding by 60% and 31,000 km of new rail networks added over the past decade. The operationalization of nine Vande Bharat trains and ongoing preparations for bullet trains underscore the government’s commitment to modernizing transportation. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved significant milestones, including the successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the Moon and launching the Aditya-L1 mission to observe the Sun. Politically, the Modi government has enacted landmark decisions such as the abrogation of Article 370 and the criminalization of Triple Talaq, demonstrating a decisive approach to governance. Initiatives aimed at making India a manufacturing hub, such as Vocal for Local and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, have further propelled the nation's economic and industrial growth.
The Significance of the BJP’s Victory
The 2024 election results underscore the enduring appeal of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership and the BJP's governance model, reflecting a strong endorsement of the policies and initiatives undertaken over the past decade. This historic win, marked by the BJP's continued support from the electorate, not only reinforces Modi's political stature but also sets the stage for further advancements in India's development trajectory. The significant mandate highlights the electorate's trust in Modi's vision and the government's ability to drive the nation's progress.
The trust placed in the NDA for a third consecutive term underscores the electorate's belief in the government's capability to deliver on its promises. This overwhelming support reflects a collective desire for stability and continuity in governance, deemed essential for sustained progress. The electorate's confidence in the NDA's governance model, characterized by transformative policies and robust development initiatives, signals a clear mandate for continued economic growth and modernization, paving the way for a prosperous future for India.
The Road Ahead
With a third term secured, the Modi-led government is set to advance its development agenda and tackle the nation's pressing challenges. Key priorities are expected to include driving economic growth, creating jobs, improving healthcare and education, and expanding infrastructure development. The government's steadfast commitment to inclusive growth and social welfare is anticipated to remain a cornerstone of its policies, ensuring that the benefits of progress reach all segments of society. This approach aims to build on the successes of initiatives such as Ayushman Bharat, Jan Dhan Yojana, and PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi.
On the international front, Modi's government will focus on enhancing India's position on the global stage. This will involve strengthening trade relations, fostering strategic partnerships, and addressing global challenges such as climate change. The government's foreign policy agenda is likely to prioritize boosting economic ties, expanding India's influence in international forums, and contributing to global efforts to combat climate change. These initiatives aim to solidify India's role as a key player in the global arena, leveraging its economic and strategic strengths to foster international collaboration and development.
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