Narendra Modi is the current Prime Minister of India and a leader who has inspired many with his progressive ideas. He is seen as an exemplary leader, taking India to great heights through economic growth and social reform initiatives. Born in 1950, Narendra Modi rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most influential political figures in India today. In this post we will look at Narendra Modi’s inspiring journey, his key accomplishments and achievements during his term as Prime Minister of India, as well as some of the criticism he has faced throughout his tenure.
Introduction to Narendra Modi
Narendra Damodardas Modi is the 14th and current Prime Minister of India since 2014. A member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), he was the Chief Minister of Gujarat from 2001 to 2014 and is the Member of Parliament for Varanasi. The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance won a majority in the 2014 general election and subsequently appointed him as Prime Minister. He has been credited for leading India into becoming one of the fastest growing economies in the world, having made several landmark decisions including demonetization, implementation of GST and much more.
Early Life and Education of Narendra Modi
Born on 17 September 1950 in Vadnagar, Mehsana district, Modi was born into a family belonging to the Other Backward Class (OBC). His parents were both grocers and ran a small tea stall in Vadnagar railway station. Modi spent his childhood helping his father in running the shop while attending school. He completed his higher secondary education in 1967 after which he left home at the age of 17 to explore India and learn about Indian culture. It was during this period that he became involved in politics by joining Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). After returning home, Modi continued his studies, completing a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Delhi University in 1978. Later on he obtained a Master’s degree in Political Science from Gujarat University in 1983.
Political Career Highlights of Narendra Modi
After joining RSS, Modi began working for the BJP in 1985 and rose rapidly within the party ranks. In 2001, he was elected as the Chief Minister of Gujarat state and led three consecutive terms until 2014 when he stepped down to join national politics. As CM of Gujarat, he had earned praises for introducing pro-business policies and investment incentives which lead to significant economic development in Gujarat under his leadership.
In 2014, Modi successfully contested the Lok Sabha Elections as candidate of BJP and was sworn-in as Prime Minister of India on 26 May 2014. Since then he has been serving as PM of India, winning again in 2019 elections with increased mandate.
Highlights From His Term as Prime Minister Of India
Since coming to power, Narendra Modi has implemented various innovative reforms across different fields like foreign policy, economy, infrastructure, social welfare etc. Some of these major developments are:
- Demonetization: In 2016, Narendra Modi launched a surprise nationwide demonetisation exercise aimed at curbing black money circulation. This move created havoc but helped in reducing cash transactions significantly over time.
- GST: Goods & Services Tax was introduced on 1 July 2017 unifying indirect taxes throughout India making it easier to do business and reducing tax evasion.
- Ujjwala Yojana: This scheme provides free LPG connections to women living below poverty line. This initiative aims to help reduce indoor air pollution caused by burning biomass fuels used by rural households and also empowers them economically.
- Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana: Under this mission, government plans to provide housing for all by 2022 covering urban and rural areas. So far 50 million homes have been sanctioned under this scheme till 2020.
- Make In India: To promote manufacturing industries in India, “Make In India” campaign was launched by Modi aiming to boost exports and generate jobs. Since its launch in 2015, it has attracted investors from around the world contributing greatly to India’s GDP growth rate.
- Swachh Bharat Mission: This project focuses on improving sanitation conditions by building public toilets and providing access to basic amenities such as water supply and solid waste management systems throughout the country.
Economic Achievements Of Narendra Modi
Under Modi’s leadership, India’s GDP has grown steadily at 7% annually in recent years compared to 6.5% under previous governments. Government policies such as ‘Startup India’ and ‘Digital India’ have encouraged businesses and investments while boosting employment opportunities across sectors. His efforts have resulted in India being ranked 77th on World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Index 2018 rising 23 places since 2016. Additionally, multiple government schemes like Ujala Yojana, Atal Pension Yojana etc have been successful in bringing financial inclusion to lower income groups.
Foreign Policy Changes Under Narendra Modi
Modi took office at a critical moment when bilateral relations between India and Pakistan were deteriorating due to frequent cross-border terrorism activities from Pakistan backed militant organisations. Taking a hard stance against Pakistani aggression, Narendra Modi has taken proactive steps towards mending ties with other countries like Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal without compromising on security interests. Through peaceful negotiations with China on Doklam issue, diplomatic visits with US President Donald Trump as well as participation in G20 summits have put India on global map and helped strengthen her position internationally.
Social Initiatives Implemented By Narendra Modi
Apart from his economic agenda, Narendra Modi has also initiated several social welfare programs aimed at uplifting backward communities and marginalized sections of society. These include Jan Dhan Yojana which gives every citizen access to banking services; Skill India program targeting employability enhancement of youth; Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Scheme which seeks to ensure safety and education for girls; Stand Up India Program which offers loans up to 10 lakhs for SC/ST entrepreneurs; Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana intended to enhance skill development; Mudra Yojana which provides collateral free loans up to Rs 10 lakhs to entrepreneurs; Ayushman Bharat Yojana – healthcare insurance plan covering 500 million people amongst others.
Accolades Received By Narendra Modi Throughout His Career
Throughout his career so far, Narendra Modi has received numerous accolades for his extraordinary work both nationally and internationally. For example he was conferred with prestigious Seoul Peace Prize 2018 acknowledging his contributions to international cooperation, promoting active engagement in international affairs and raising global economic cooperation. Other honours include Global Goalkeeper Award from Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for success achieved through Swachh Bharat Abhiyan; UN Champions of Earth award for his commitment towards environment protection etcetera.
Criticism Faced By Narendra Modi During His Tenure As Prime Minister Of India
Despite achieving tremendous success in implementing various policies and initiatives, Narendra Modi also faced strong criticism particularly concerning Kashmir related issues or alleged mishandling of certain socio-economic matters. Most notably he was criticized heavily regarding abrogation of article 370 which revoked special status granted to Jammu & Kashmir region thus violating human rights according to some activists while earning praises from others who deemed it necessary step for unity and integrity of nation. Other controversies surrounding him include Rafale Deal allegations, Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) etc which caused nationwide protests demanding rollback of such controversial laws.
Conclusion
Narendra Modi is truly an inspiring figure whose tireless dedication towards transforming our nation can be clearly seen through his multiple initiatives undertaken during his term as Prime Minister of India. He remains committed towards empowering citizens socially and economically while attempting to foster peace worldwide. With an impressive track record behind him, he is sure to continue creating positive changes ensuring brighter future for generations to come!