Dear Kapil Komireddi,
Your report seems to limit Prime Minister Modi to the label of a Hindu nationalist, neglecting the broader canvas of his leadership and the transformative strides India has taken under his watch. Yet, beyond this narrow portrayal, there's a rich tapestry of progress and development that warrants exploration. Let's lift the veil and uncover the vibrant hues of achievement that extend far beyond the confines of religious identity.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Vivekananda Rock Memorial, in Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu, Thursday, May 30, 2024. (Photo: PTI)
Your assessment of Prime Minister Modi's tenure appears to overlook the substantial advancements India has experienced across various sectors since Narendra Modi assumed office. While critics like you may seek to confine Modi to the labels of dictator and Hindu nationalist, such reductionist portrayals fail to capture the multifaceted nature of his leadership. The past decade under Modi's administration has witnessed significant strides in infrastructure, railways, aviation, healthcare, and education, elevating India's status on the global stage. Despite the persistent criticism, it's essential to acknowledge the tangible progress made under Modiji's stewardship, including the development of modern highways, expansion of the railway network, establishment of new IITs, and robust economic growth. Critiques of Modiji often veer into distortion, overlooking the concrete achievements that underscore his transformative impact on the nation.
Modiji's Vision Propels India's Rapid Economic Growth and Social Progress
In your report, there seems to be a neglect of acknowledging the significant economic strides India has taken under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. His vision has propelled India into one of the fastest-growing economies globally, with ambitious goals set for achieving high middle-income status by 2047 and net-zero emissions by 2070. During Modiji's tenure, India experienced substantial progress in reducing extreme poverty, with a notable halving of the population living below $2.15 per day from 2011 to 2019. Despite facing global challenges like supply chain disruptions and inflationary pressures, India emerged as a robust economy in 2022. The collaboration between the World Bank and the Indian government further underscores India's dynamic progress towards green, resilient, and inclusive development. It's imperative to recognize Modiji's visionary leadership in steering India towards unprecedented growth and prosperity, rather than overlooking these achievements.
Make in India Initiative
In your report, you have omitted Prime Minister Narendra Modiji's ambitious "Make in India" initiative, which has been instrumental in transforming India's economic landscape since its launch in September 2014. This initiative aims to bolster domestic manufacturing capabilities, with lofty goals including a substantial increase in the manufacturing sector's growth rate, the creation of millions of new jobs, and a significant contribution to GDP by 2025. Despite potential concerns raised by critics regarding the initiative's impact on the dominance of foreign corporations, it cannot be denied that "Make in India" has been a driving force behind India's economic growth and self-reliance efforts. By omitting this crucial aspect of Modiji's governance, your analysis fails to provide a comprehensive assessment of the Prime Minister's initiatives and their impact on India's economic trajectory.
Healthcare Reforms Under PM Modi
It's evident that your report overlooks the significant strides made in healthcare reforms under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.
Public Health Expenditure
Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India's public health expenditure as a percentage of GDP initially saw a reduction from 1.3% in 2013-14 to 1.2%, but subsequently increased to 1.5% by 2016-17. This incremental growth underscores the Modi government's commitment to improving the country's healthcare infrastructure despite initial setbacks. Such investments are crucial for building a resilient healthcare system capable of serving the needs of a growing population.
Ayushman Bharat Yojana (Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana)
Launched in 2018, the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, also known as Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana, represents one of the most significant healthcare reforms under Modiji's tenure. This flagship scheme provides health insurance coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization, covering approximately 50 crore beneficiaries from economically vulnerable families. Additionally, it includes the establishment of 1.5 lakh Health and Wellness Centres to provide comprehensive primary healthcare services, aiming to make quality healthcare accessible to the poorest segments of society.
National Health Policy 2017
The National Health Policy of 2017 is another cornerstone of Modiji's healthcare initiatives, focusing on increasing public health expenditure, reducing out-of-pocket spending on healthcare, and improving access to quality healthcare services. This policy emphasizes the need for a comprehensive primary healthcare system, the promotion of yoga and AYUSH systems, and the integration of digital technologies in healthcare. This holistic approach aims to ensure that healthcare is both affordable and accessible to all citizens.
Mission Indradhanush
Launched in 2014, Mission Indradhanush seeks to increase immunization coverage among children and pregnant women. By targeting areas with low immunization rates, this initiative aims to achieve 90% coverage of all vaccines included in the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP). This mission is pivotal in protecting the most vulnerable populations from preventable diseases and ensuring a healthier future for the nation's children.
Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP)
The Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) aims to provide quality generic medicines at affordable prices through dedicated outlets called Janaushadhi Kendras. As of March 2021, there were over 7,500 Janaushadhi Kendras across the country, offering access to over 1,400 drugs and 204 surgical items. This initiative not only reduces the financial burden on patients but also promotes the use of cost-effective generic medications.
Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA)
Launched in 2016, the Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) provides free antenatal care to pregnant women on the 9th of every month at government health facilities. This program aims to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates by ensuring comprehensive and quality antenatal care. By focusing on maternal health, PMSMA contributes to the overall well-being of mothers and their newborns, laying the foundation for a healthier population.
National Digital Health Mission (NDHM)
Announced in August 2020, the National Digital Health Mission (NDHM) aims to create a digital health ecosystem in India. This mission includes the creation of a unique health ID for every citizen, a digital health records system, and telemedicine services. By leveraging digital technologies, NDHM seeks to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of healthcare services, ensuring that all citizens can benefit from modern medical advancements.
Promotion of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy)
The Modi government has taken significant steps to promote AYUSH systems of medicine, including the creation of a separate Ministry of AYUSH. Initiatives like the International Day of Yoga and the establishment of AYUSH wellness centers have been introduced to popularize these traditional systems of medicine. By integrating AYUSH practices with modern healthcare, the government aims to provide holistic and diverse treatment options for the population.
Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission)
Although not a direct healthcare reform, the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission) launched in 2014 has significant public health implications. This mission aims to improve sanitation and hygiene practices across the country, which can help reduce the incidence of various diseases. By promoting cleanliness and sanitation, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan contributes to a healthier living environment, thereby supporting the overall health and well-being of the population.
It's baffling how your report fails to acknowledge all these monumental healthcare initiatives spearheaded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the past decade.
Land Reforms Under PM Modi
In your report, Kapil, you neglect to recognize the pragmatic steps taken by the Modi administration to fast-track infrastructure development through the amendment of the 2013 Land Acquisition Act. By allowing for the acquisition of private land without owner consent for crucial projects such as defense, rural infrastructure, affordable housing, industrial corridors, and PPP ventures, Modiji aimed to remove obstacles impeding growth. Despite facing parliamentary opposition, the government's unwavering commitment to progress led to the bill's passage via executive order, highlighting a determination to surmount bureaucratic hindrances. Although the bill eventually lapsed, its introduction signaled a significant stride towards simplifying land acquisition processes and advancing India's infrastructure under Modiji's stewardship. Such decisive actions underscore Modiji's resolve to propel India forward, despite the complexities inherent in governance.
Public Transportation
In your report, you overlook the significant advancements achieved in India's railway sector under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. Modiji's administration has spearheaded ambitious reforms aimed at modernizing and revitalizing the country's railway infrastructure. Through strategic partnerships with global industry leaders like General Electric and Alstom, the government successfully procured 1,000 new diesel locomotives, marking a significant leap forward in enhancing operational efficiency and driving privatization efforts. Moreover, the groundbreaking agreement with Japan for the construction of a high-speed bullet train connecting Mumbai and Ahmedabad signifies a monumental milestone in India's railway modernization journey.
Furthermore, the integration of the railway budget into the Union Budget and the realignment of the financial cycle underscore Modiji's commitment to fiscal discipline and streamlined governance processes. Additionally, the scrapping of the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) reflects the government's proactive approach to fostering a more investor-friendly environment and advancing economic reforms. These reforms not only propel India's railway sector into the future but also demonstrate Modiji's unwavering dedication to driving comprehensive transformation across key sectors of the economy.
Financial Inclusion
In your report, Kapil, you also seem to have overlooked the transformative impact of initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) and the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. Since its inception in August 2014, PMJDY has played a pivotal role in advancing financial inclusion efforts by providing bank accounts and debit cards to over 150 million families across the country. This landmark initiative not only granted access to formal banking services but also offered crucial benefits such as overdraft facilities and accident insurance coverage, empowering millions of households economically.
Similarly, the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, launched in April 2015, aimed to fuel entrepreneurship by extending loans up to ₹1 million for non-agricultural activities under different categories. The scheme's impact has been profound, as evidenced by a report by the SKOCH Group, which highlighted the generation of 1.68 crore incremental jobs within the first two years of its implementation until September 2017. These initiatives underscore Modiji's commitment to fostering economic empowerment and inclusive growth, driving positive change in the lives of millions of Indians.
Introduction of Citizenship Amendment Act
In your report, Kapil, you have tried to misguide the people about the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). Let us clarify what the CAA really is and address the misconceptions you have presented.
The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) has been a subject of significant debate and scrutiny, stemming from its roots in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) vision of 'Akhand Bharat,' or an undivided India. This vision encompasses the present-day territories of India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh, seen as the birthplace of Hinduism and the rightful homeland of Hindus worldwide. Central to this ideology is the belief in safeguarding Hindus and other religious minorities facing persecution in neighboring countries, where they often seek refuge, legally or illegally, in India.
The CAA, passed with the aim of offering citizenship to persecuted Hindus and other religious minorities from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, underscores the Modi government's commitment to protecting vulnerable communities. While concerns have been raised regarding its exclusionary nature towards Muslims, it's essential to understand its specific provisions. The CAA applies solely to individuals who have fled these countries and sought refuge in India before December 31, 2014, ensuring legal status for those who have long awaited recognition.
Importantly, the CAA does not strip Indian Muslims of their citizenship or exclude them from accessing citizenship through other legal avenues. It focuses solely on providing a pathway to citizenship for certain immigrant groups facing religious persecution, reinforcing India's commitment to inclusivity and humanitarian values. Additionally, it emphasizes the distinction between illegal immigrants and those seeking refuge due to genuine persecution, offering a pragmatic approach to addressing complex humanitarian challenges.
In essence, the CAA represents an inclusive and compassionate response to the plight of persecuted minorities while upholding India's long-standing tradition of embracing diversity and pluralism. By recognizing the historical and contemporary realities faced by vulnerable communities, the Modi government demonstrates its dedication to ensuring justice and equality for all, irrespective of religious affiliation. As such, portraying the CAA as discriminatory or anti-Muslim is misleading and fails to capture its nuanced objectives and implications within the broader context of India's socio-political landscape.
Critics of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) frequently question why Muslims are excluded from its provisions, yet fail to address the broader context of Muslim-majority countries' reluctance to accept Muslim refugees. While the CAA offers citizenship to persecuted minorities from neighboring countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, critics overlook the fact that these countries often subject their minority populations, including Hindus, Sikhs, Christians, and others, to severe persecution.
Muslim Countries Not Accepting Muslim Refugees
In your report, Kapil, you cared so much about Muslims and questioned why they are not included to get citizenship under the CAA. Yet, you did not utter a single word about why Muslim-majority countries themselves don't accept Muslim refugees from other countries.
Last year, Pakistan, often supported by India's left-leaning liberals, executed a mass deportation drive, forcibly repatriating over 500,000 Afghan nationals, both documented and undocumented, back to Afghanistan. The deportation, justified by reasons such as limited resources and national security concerns.
In neighboring Bangladesh, the plight of Rohingya Muslims reached a critical juncture, with the government pressuring them to return to Myanmar. Thousands of refugees find themselves relocated to a remote island known as Bhasan Char, described by many as akin to a "prison island." Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has made appeals to the UN rights chief, stressing the necessity for hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees, currently housed in overcrowded camps, to return to Myanmar. Despite these urgent developments, the Western media and Muslim-majority countries have remained conspicuously silent.
Saudi Arabia, often positioning itself as a defender of Muslims worldwide, surprised many with its refusal to grant citizenship to Rohingya Muslims. This stance drew scrutiny in April 2019, as reports emerged of Rohingya Muslims staging hunger strikes in Saudi detention centers to protest against harsh conditions. Despite its status as the birthplace of Islam, Saudi Arabia initiated the forceful deportation of Rohingya back to Bangladesh, subsequently facilitating their return to Myanmar.
Prime Minister Modi's efforts to promote communal peace and Justice in India
In your report, Kapil, you have cleverly pushed your propaganda and conveniently ignored Prime Minister Modi's efforts to promote communal peace and justice in India.
Here are some of the examples of PM Modi’s initiatives to promote Communal Peace and Justice in India.
Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas: Fostering Inclusive Growth under PM Modi's Leadership
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, the slogan "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas" has become emblematic of the government's commitment to inclusive growth and development for all sections of society, transcending barriers of caste, creed, and religion. This visionary approach aims to foster unity and equality among all citizens, promoting a collective journey towards progress and prosperity.
Efforts to bridge the Hindu-Muslim divide:
PM Modi's proactive efforts to bridge the Hindu-Muslim divide underscore his commitment to fostering harmony and mutual understanding among diverse communities. From attending events like the World Sufi Forum to visiting mosques in the UAE, PM Modi has demonstrated a genuine outreach towards the Muslim community. Moreover, his unequivocal condemnation of violence and hate crimes against minorities reaffirms the government's stance against discrimination and intolerance.
Empowerment of minority communities:
The Modi government's initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK) reflect its unwavering commitment to the socio-economic and educational development of minority communities. By introducing scholarships and skill development programs, the government is empowering minority students and youth, enabling them to realize their full potential and contribute to the nation's progress.
Addressing historical injustices:
PM Modi's administration has taken decisive steps to address historical injustices faced by marginalized communities. The passage of the 102nd Constitutional Amendment Bill, which grants constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC), signifies the government's commitment to ensuring justice and equality for all sections of society. Additionally, measures to provide justice to the victims of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots reflect the government's proactive approach towards addressing past grievances.
Promoting interfaith dialogue and understanding:
Through initiatives like the 'Sarva Dharma Sama Bhava' concept, PM Modi's government is fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding among different religious communities. By participating in events that celebrate the diversity of Indian culture and religion, such as the Kumbh Mela and Dharma Chakra Day, PM Modi is promoting interfaith dialogue and unity, reaffirming India's rich heritage of pluralism and tolerance.
Addressing issues of social justice:
The government's commitment to social justice is evident through measures like the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Act, 2018, which aims to provide stricter punishments for crimes against SC/ST communities. Initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana further exemplify the government's efforts to uplift marginalized sections of society, ensuring equitable access to essential resources and opportunities for all citizens.
Despite your selective portrayal, Modiji's administration has taken significant steps to foster harmony and protect the rights of all communities. By overlooking these efforts, your report fails to provide a balanced view and instead, perpetuates a skewed narrative.
India's Diplomatic Relations under PM Modi
Your report failed to credit Prime Minister Modi for his outstanding diplomacy. If he were truly the tyrant or dictator you portray, India would not have forged strong diplomatic relations with so many countries around the world under his leadership.
Neighborhood First Policy: Strengthening Regional Ties
Under PM Modi's leadership, India has prioritized fostering strong ties with its immediate neighbors through the Neighborhood First Policy. High-profile visits and efforts to enhance economic cooperation have characterized India's engagements with countries like Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. While relations with Pakistan remain strained due to issues like cross-border terrorism, PM Modi's proactive approach towards regional diplomacy underscores India's commitment to fostering peace and stability in the neighborhood.
Act East Policy: Deepening Engagement with Southeast Asia
Building upon the Look East Policy, PM Modi's Act East Policy aims to bolster India's strategic and economic ties with Southeast Asian countries. Through active engagement with ASEAN nations and participation in regional forums, India has sought to strengthen its presence in the Indo-Pacific region. Efforts to enhance relations with key partners like Japan, South Korea, and Australia further reflect India's commitment to regional cooperation and connectivity, positioning itself as a key player in the evolving geopolitical landscape.
Engagement with Major Powers: Striking a Balance
PM Modi has skillfully navigated India's relations with major powers like the United States, Russia, and China, maintaining a delicate balance to safeguard India's interests. Strengthening strategic partnerships with the US, deepening defense cooperation, and managing tensions with China amidst regional challenges have been key features of India's foreign policy under Modiji's leadership. India's traditional friendly ties with Russia have also been maintained, highlighting India's commitment to a multi-aligned approach in global affairs.
Indian Ocean Region (IOR) Outreach: Securing Maritime Interests
Recognizing the strategic significance of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), PM Modi has prioritized enhancing India's naval capabilities and fostering closer ties with countries in the region. Through joint maritime exercises and diplomatic engagements, India has sought to safeguard its maritime interests and strengthen cooperation with Indian Ocean littoral states. Close relations with key partners like Mauritius, Seychelles, and Sri Lanka underscore India's commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region.
Multilateral Engagement: Advocating for Global Reform
India's active participation in multilateral forums under PM Modi's leadership reflects its commitment to global governance and reform. Through engagement in forums like the United Nations, G20, BRICS, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), India has advocated for reforms to reflect the changing global order and ensure greater representation for developing countries. PM Modi's proactive approach to multilateral diplomacy underscores India's commitment to shaping the global agenda and addressing shared challenges.
Diaspora Outreach: Leveraging Resources for Development
PM Modi has recognized the invaluable contribution of the Indian diaspora to India's development agenda and has actively engaged with them during his foreign visits. Leveraging the expertise and resources of the diaspora through initiatives like the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card and Pravasi Bharatiya Divas has strengthened India's ties with its global community. By fostering closer bonds with the diaspora, PM Modi has sought to harness their potential for India's socio-economic progress and global outreach.
Economic Diplomacy: Showcasing India's Potential
Emphasizing the importance of economic diplomacy, PM Modi has championed initiatives like Make in India, Digital India, and Skill India to showcase India's economic potential on the global stage. Through efforts to attract foreign investment, promote exports, and enhance trade ties with partner countries, India has emerged as a key player in the global economy under Modiji's leadership. By leveraging India's economic strengths and fostering partnerships with other nations, PM Modi has laid the foundation for India's sustained growth and development on the world stage.
Modiji's adept handling of international relations has significantly elevated India's global standing, demonstrating a commitment to peace and collaboration that contradicts the negative image your report attempts to paint.
Punitive Measures Against Corruption
How can you forget to mention Prime Minister Modi's surgical strike against corruption? Is it because you don't want to credit him for anything, or are you simply ignorant of this significant aspect of his leadership?
The Modi government has taken decisive steps to combat illegal financial dealings, exemplified by the enactment of key legislation such as the Black Money (Undisclosed Foreign Income and Assets) Act in 2015 and the Benami Property Act. Coupled with the establishment of a Special Investigation Team dedicated to tackling black money, these initiatives have resulted in the initiation of numerous cases and the recovery of substantial sums of unaccounted wealth. The introduction of the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, designed to confiscate assets from economic offenders who abscond from the country, and the enforcement of compulsory retirement for corrupt government officials through Rule 56(j) of the CCS (Pension) Rules, further demonstrate the government's unwavering commitment to rooting out corruption.
Embracing digitization and e-governance initiatives, the Indian government has made significant strides in enhancing transparency, accountability, and efficiency in public services and processes. Initiatives like CPGRAMS (Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System) empower citizens to register grievances, while the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) streamlines public procurement through transparent bidding processes, curbing cronyism and corruption. Online bidding/tendering systems simplify procedures and minimize opportunities for corruption in public procurements, fostering fair practices and transparent resource allocation.
The adoption of dashboards centralizes real-time operational data from various ministries and departments, reducing reliance on fragmented reports and curbing data manipulation for political gain. This move fosters transparency, accountability, and discipline in data reporting, preventing underperformance or leakages that could benefit policymakers while keeping the public informed. By centralizing data, the government ensures greater accuracy and efficiency in decision-making, promoting effective governance practices.
The Modi government has demonstrated its commitment to accountability by taking decisive action against corrupt officials, including the retirement of several income tax and customs officers on corruption charges. Initiatives like the One Nation One Ration Card plan and the Digital India Land Record Modification Program leverage technology to enhance service delivery, reduce corruption, and empower citizens. The transition to e-office systems and supply chain management of food grains further facilitates transparent and efficient governance practices, leaving minimal room for malpractice.
Through legislative measures, digitization efforts, and enforcement actions, the Modi government aims to empower citizens by promoting transparent and accountable governance. By leveraging technology and instituting stringent measures against corruption, the government strives to build public trust and ensure that resources are utilized effectively for the welfare of the nation. These initiatives signify a paradigm shift towards transparent governance, fostering a culture of integrity and accountability in India's administrative machinery.
Ignoring these efforts not only skews the narrative but also overlooks the strides made towards a cleaner and more robust economy under his administration.
In summary, Kapil, your biased report seems to overlook the bold and decisive leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whose tenure has propelled India onto the global stage as a beacon of progress and development. PM Modi's commitment to inclusive growth is evident in initiatives like Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, and Jan Dhan Yojana, which have uplifted millions from poverty and empowered marginalized communities. Under his stewardship, India has seen unprecedented advancements in infrastructure, healthcare, and foreign relations, positioning the nation as a key player in the international arena. Despite relentless opposition and unfounded criticism, PM Modi's unwavering dedication to the nation's welfare and prosperity continues to inspire hope and confidence among the populace. As India surges forward on its path to becoming a global powerhouse, Modiji's visionary leadership remains pivotal in steering the country towards a brighter future, countering the narrative that seeks to undermine his achievements and cast aspersions on his leadership and India's remarkable growth trajectory.
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