Introduction
Over the past decade, India has undergone an extraordinary wave of transformation under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Going beyond conventional notions of development, this period signifies a profound redefinition of India's identity—a newfound self-confidence encapsulated in the visionary concept of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
As we delve into the various facets of this remarkable journey, it becomes increasingly evident that the transformative impact extends far beyond economic progress, touching on growth, empowerment, and a strategic repositioning of India's global standing.
Narendra Modi in Varanasi after winning Lok Sabha elections from the constituency.
Empowering the Marginalized
Prime Minister Modi's governance has been marked by an unwavering commitment to inclusivity, particularly addressing the needs of classes, societies, and regions historically marginalized. The North-East region, a symbol of India's cultural diversity, has experienced a renaissance with the construction of seven new airports and the ongoing development of over 4,000 km of road projects.
The railway budget for the North-East, which stood at Rs 2,500 crore before 2014, has quadrupled to Rs 10,000 crore, signifying a holistic approach to regional development that encompasses connectivity, infrastructure, and economic empowerment, fostering an environment of sustainable growth.
Women Empowerment
Recognizing the pivotal role of women in societal progress, the Modi government has prioritized women's empowerment through legislative measures like the 'Nari Shakti Vandan Act.' Initiatives such as the Ujjwala Yojana, providing smoke-free cooking gas to 9.6 crore women, and the Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana, where 56% of account holders are women, underscore a profound commitment to gender equality.
The recently launched Drone Didi Scheme further exemplifies efforts to integrate women into technology-driven sectors, fostering self-reliance and bridging gender gaps in various industries, setting the stage for a more inclusive and diverse workforce.
Mainstreaming the Deprived
Prime Minister Modi's tenure has witnessed a paradigm shift in addressing the concerns of the deprived classes. A significant milestone is the OBC Bill, passed through the 127th Constitutional Amendment in 2021, ensuring the preservation of the OBC community's identity. Initiatives like PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, Vishwakarma Yojana, and focused efforts on tribal communities showcase a comprehensive approach to uplifting the underprivileged, ensuring their full participation in the nation-building process.
The government's commitment is reflected in the fact that 60 percent of the ministers in the Union Cabinet are from SC, ST, or OBC communities, demonstrating a commitment to fostering diversity in leadership.
Economic Progress and Global Standing
India's economic growth, underpinned by political stability, has positioned it as the fifth-largest economy globally, surpassing the United Kingdom. Prime Minister Modi's emphasis on 'Make in India' has garnered international acclaim, attracting global partnerships and foreign direct investment.
Noteworthy is the liberalization of industrial sectors like defence, construction, and railways, opening avenues for global participation and collaboration. This shift has not only propelled economic growth but has also fortified India's standing on the global stage, establishing the nation as a key player in the evolving landscape of international trade and cooperation.
Financial Inclusion and Simplified Taxation
Pioneering financial inclusion, the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana has transformed millions of lives by providing access to banking services. The scheme has not only facilitated direct subsidies, eliminating corruption and leakages but has also set a Guinness World Record for the most bank accounts opened in a week.
The simplified tax system and reduced customs duty on inputs/raw materials exemplify a business-friendly approach, contributing to ease of doing business in India. This pragmatic approach to economic policies has propelled India's economic growth, fostering an environment conducive to both domestic and foreign investment, paving the way for a robust and resilient financial system.
Some Major Achievements under the PM
The fulfillment of a key promise in the BJP's manifesto is well underway with the construction of the Ram Temple. Prime Minister Modi laid the foundation stone in August 2020, and the completion is expected by 2023, culminating in the inauguration scheduled for January 22, 2024. This monumental project aligns with the sentiments of millions of Indians, symbolizing a significant step towards realizing a long-standing electoral commitment.
Celebrating India's 75th year of independence, the government launched the "Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav" program—a nationwide initiative honoring contributors to the nation's freedom struggle. The program sheds light on often-overlooked heroes, showcasing India's democratic strength and cultural richness. Notable events organized by the Ministry of Culture and India's spotlight as the Country of Honour at the Cannes Film Festival exemplify the nation's vibrant cultural heritage.
In response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Prime Minister Modi's government implemented crucial measures. During the first wave, free ration for marginalized sections was announced, extending the scheme through the second wave until March 2022. This initiative provided essential support by supplying free ration to 80 crore beneficiaries monthly.
Undertaking the world's largest vaccination drive, India, under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, administered over 193 crore doses of the COVID vaccine. This comprehensive vaccination campaign covered a significant portion of the population, including adolescents aged 15 to 18, and incorporated a precautionary dose campaign for adults.
India achieved a remarkable feat by developing indigenous vaccines in record time, not only safeguarding its own population but also extending support to neighboring nations through the Vaccine Maitri scheme—a testament to India's commitment to global health.
The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, a national public health insurance fund, stands as a flagship initiative aiming to provide free health insurance coverage to low-income earners. With more than 22 crore people registered for the scheme, it reflects a significant stride towards ensuring healthcare access for vulnerable sections of society.
Vision for the Future
As Prime Minister Narendra Modi approaches a decade in office in 2024, the accomplishments of the last ten years serve as a testament to his transformative leadership. The journey towards Atmanirbhar Bharat is characterized by inclusivity, empowerment, and a commitment to holistic development.
Looking ahead, the vision for India includes stability, strength, and a step closer to realizing the dream of a Golden India, free from corruption, casteism, and communalism. The enduring impact of the policies implemented during this period sets the foundation for sustained growth and prosperity, propelling India into a new era of self-reliance and global leadership.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the narrative of Narendra Modi's leadership unfolds as a tapestry of achievements spanning various dimensions of governance. From regional development to women empowerment, from mainstreaming the deprived to economic progress on the global stage, the journey of the last decade is a testament to a vision that goes beyond mere statistics.
It is a vision that seeks to empower every individual, reshape India's destiny, and lay the groundwork for a future defined by resilience, prosperity, and self-reliance. As we anticipate the next phase of this transformative journey, it is evident that the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not only left an indelible mark on the nation's trajectory but has also set the stage for an era of unparalleled growth and development.
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