The Promises and Realities of Achche Din in India

The question of when 'achche din'—meaning good days—will come in India is complex and multifaceted, reflecting the country’s evolving social, economic, and political landscape. In this article, we explore the challenges and opportunities in achieving these better days through a detailed analysis of the Indian government's initiatives and citizen actions.

Challenges and Progress

India's journey towards improved living standards is emblematic of a nation that has made substantial strides while still grappling with longstanding issues. This two-part analysis delves into the progress made and the gaps that remain, using the Goods and Services Tax (GST) as a case study.

GST: A New Era of Taxation

The implementation of GST in India was a significant step towards harmonizing the tax structure across different states and sectors. This national Goods and Services Tax regime was designed to simplify the tax system, reduce tax evasion, and enhance transparency. However, the success of GST has been uneven.

While the tax system has brought about substantial improvements, there are concerns about the tax burden on consumers and how the tax revenues are distributed. For instance, some industries have reported that the tax structure disproportionately benefits large manufacturers and distributors at the expense of small dealers and retailers. This highlights the need for a more equitable tax regime to ensure that the benefits of GST are accessible to all sections of society.

Evolving Governance for Better Days

Reshaping governance to better match societal expectations remains a critical challenge. Although the government has introduced several initiatives such as Swach Bharat Abhiyan, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, and Gati Shakti Mission, there is a significant divergence between policy goals and their effective implementation.

Swach Bharat Abhiyan: A Game Changer for Rural India

Swach Bharat Abhiyan, launched in 2014, has been a transformative initiative in rural India, particularly in addressing sanitation issues. The movement aimed to clean up the country and promote better sanitation practices. In the village of Maha, where the author hails from, the impact of this program was felt within two years of its launch. Today, every household has a toilet and a water pipeline, significantly improving the lives of many.

Loading the Benefits to All

The success of such programs is a testament to the potential for positive change. However, it underscores the need for broader initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana, which aims to provide affordable housing for low-income households. Additionally, the Gati Shakti Mission focuses on urban development and industrialization, aiming to create a connected ecosystem that supports startups and small businesses.

Taking Initiative for Your Achche Din

While awaiting systemic changes, individuals can take proactive steps to create their 'achche din.' This involves making thoughtful decisions and taking action that aligns with personal and community well-being. By embracing a proactive mindset, individuals can significantly influence their lives and contribute to broader societal progress.

For rural communities like Maha, attaining 'achche din' often requires a collective effort, leveraging government programs and community assets to improve living conditions. Each individual's initiative brings about incremental changes that collectively form the foundation for lasting improvements.

Conclusion

Achche din, or better days, are not a distant dream; they are realizable through thoughtful governance and individual actions. By understanding the challenges and recognizing the contributions of various programs and initiatives, we can work towards a future where every individual experiences the benefits of progress. As citizens of India, it is our collective responsibility to strive for continuous improvement and to bring about the change we wish to see in our society.