Analyzing the factors behind his continued popularity
To elect 543 members of the Lok Sabha, the general elections are being held in India from 19 April to 1 June 2024 in seven phases. The votes will be counted and the results will be declared on 4 June 2024. Around 970 million people out of a population of 1.4 billion people (70% of the population) will cast their vote.
Current Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is contesting for a third consecutive term.
Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India since 2014, has established a dominant presence in Indian politics. As the 2024 general elections approach, many political analysts and observers believe that Modi is poised to secure a third term in office. This article explores the multifaceted reasons behind Modi’s enduring popularity and why he is likely to be re-elected as the Prime Minister of India.
One of the cornerstone arguments for Modi’s potential re-election is his government’s focus on economic development and infrastructure improvement. Under his leadership, India has seen significant initiatives aimed at boosting the economy and modernizing infrastructure.
Modi’s administration has prioritized infrastructure projects, which resonate well with the electorate. Initiatives like the Bharatmala Project aim to enhance road connectivity across the country, while the Sagarmala Project focuses on port modernization and coastal community development. The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) has targeted housing for all by providing affordable housing to the urban poor. These projects not only improve living standards but also generate employment, fostering economic growth and earning Modi substantial political capital.
Economic reforms such as the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) have streamlined the tax system and improved the ease of doing business in India. Despite some initial teething problems, these reforms have been lauded for bringing long-term stability and transparency to the economy.
Modi’s administration has launched several social welfare schemes that have had a widespread impact on the lives of ordinary Indians.
The DBT scheme has revolutionized the way subsidies and financial benefits are delivered to citizens, reducing leakage and ensuring that the funds reach the intended beneficiaries directly. This has increased efficiency and transparency in the distribution of government benefits.
The Ayushman Bharat scheme, touted as the world’s largest government-funded healthcare program, aims to provide free health coverage to the poor, covering approximately 500 million people. This initiative has been a game-changer in making healthcare accessible to the underprivileged, earning the government significant goodwill.
Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Mission) is another flagship program that has focused on improving sanitation and hygiene. The mission aimed to eliminate open defecation and improve solid waste management. By 2019, the government declared rural India open-defecation free, a significant milestone that has had profound impacts on public health and dignity.
Modi’s approach to national security and foreign policy has also contributed to his popularity.
Modi’s government has taken a strong stance on national security issues. The surgical strikes in 2016 and the Balakot airstrike in 2019 were seen as decisive actions against terrorism emanating from Pakistan. These actions bolstered Modi’s image as a leader capable of taking tough decisions to protect the country, which resonates with a large section of the electorate.
On the international front, Modi has significantly raised India’s global profile. His foreign policy has focused on strengthening ties with major powers like the United States, Japan, and European countries, while also emphasizing India’s role in regional groupings such as BRICS and the Quad. The outreach to the Indian diaspora has further helped in building a positive image of India abroad.
Modi’s political acumen and communication skills are pivotal to his sustained popularity.
Modi is known for his ability to communicate effectively with the masses. His use of technology and social media has revolutionized political communication in India. Platforms like Mann Ki Baat, a radio program where Modi addresses the nation, have created a direct line of communication with the public, bypassing traditional media channels and reaching a wide audience.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), under Modi’s leadership, has built a robust organizational structure that can mobilize support at the grassroots level. The BJP’s extensive network of workers and volunteers ensures that the party’s message reaches even the remotest corners of the country.
Modi has effectively used populist measures and symbolism to connect with the electorate. For instance, his visits to religious sites, participation in local festivals, and emphasis on Indian cultural heritage resonate deeply with the public, reinforcing his image as a leader who embodies traditional Indian values.
The fragmented and often weak opposition is another reason why Modi is likely to secure a third term.
The opposition parties in India have struggled to present a united front against Modi. The Indian National Congress, the main opposition party, has been plagued by internal divisions and leadership crises. Other regional parties, while influential in their respective states, have not been able to mount a significant challenge at the national level.
The opposition has also struggled to present a compelling alternative vision for India. While they criticize Modi’s policies, they often fail to offer concrete and viable alternatives that resonate with the electorate. This lack of a clear and unified policy agenda undermines their ability to attract broad-based support.
Modi’s personal charisma and leadership style play a crucial role in his continued popularity.
Modi’s personal story of rising from humble beginnings to becoming the Prime Minister of the world’s largest democracy resonates with many Indians. His image as a self-made leader who is dedicated to serving the nation strikes a chord with the electorate.
Modi’s leadership style is perceived as strong and decisive. Whether it’s making tough economic decisions like demonetization or handling national security threats, Modi is seen as a leader who is willing to take bold steps. This decisiveness is particularly appealing in a country where slow and bureaucratic governance has often been the norm.
Modi’s vision for India, encapsulated in slogans like “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India), seeks to foster self-sufficiency and reduce dependence on foreign goods. Initiatives aimed at boosting local manufacturing, such as the Make in India campaign, have been well received. His push for digitalization through Digital India has also modernized many aspects of governance and daily life, enhancing efficiency and transparency.
Modi’s socio-cultural appeal cannot be underestimated. His policies and rhetoric often resonate deeply with the traditional and conservative sections of Indian society.
Modi’s emphasis on cultural nationalism, including the promotion of Hindu values and traditions, appeals to a significant portion of the electorate. This cultural resonance strengthens his support base among those who see him as a protector of India’s cultural heritage.
Modi has managed to garner significant support in rural and regional areas through targeted policies and development programs. Schemes focused on rural electrification, agricultural support, and rural infrastructure development have strengthened his appeal among rural voters.
Narendra Modi’s potential re-election as the Prime Minister of India is driven by a combination of factors, including his government’s focus on economic development, social welfare schemes, strong national security stance, effective communication, and political strategy. The fragmented opposition and Modi’s personal charisma further bolster his prospects.
Modi’s ability to connect with the masses, implement visionary initiatives, and navigate complex political landscapes suggests that he remains a formidable force in Indian politics. As the 2024 general elections approach, these factors collectively point towards a high likelihood of Modi securing a third term, continuing his transformative agenda for India.
