How Narendra Modi's Policy Missions Are Transforming Lives and Rural Economies in India
Since the successful implementation of the surgical strike on black money under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the impact on the lives and rural economies of India has been significant. This essay delves into the transformative policies and their effects, specifically focusing on betterment for farmers, electrification of villages, and overall economic growth.
The Impact of Demonetization on Farmers
As a son of a farmer in Madhya Pradesh, I have witnessed firsthand the profound changes brought about by the demonetization policy. Historically, agricultural insurance provided through the Kisan Credit Card has been insufficient to cover losses during crop failures. However, following demonetization, farmers in my village have seen substantial increases in their earnings from the Kisan Credit Card. Farmers like my family, who previously received an average of INR 6000 annually, now see payouts of 20 times that amount, ranging from INR 1.2 to 1.5 lacs. This has led to a noticeable improvement in the livelihoods of farmers and has brought smiles to the faces of many who have struggled for years.
Electrification of Rural Villages
The government's initiative to address the electricity needs of rural villages is a testament to its commitment to development. After successfully completing the electrification of 11,000 villages, the government has set a target to complete the electrification of all remaining 8,000 villages by May 2019. Rural electrification is not just about providing power but opening up economic opportunities. It enables the use of modern agricultural machinery and appliances, enhancing productivity and efficiency. Moreover, it paves the way for the growth of small businesses and enterprises, which in turn contribute to the overall economic growth.
Agriculture and Allied Sectors
The budget allocated for rural agriculture and allied sectors is indicative of the government's prioritization of these sectors. For the current fiscal year, agriculture has been allocated Rs. 187,223 crore, a significant increase from the previous year's allocation of Rs. 145,000 crore. This focus on agriculture is crucial for the stability and prosperity of rural economies. Additionally, the government has set a target for agricultural loans of 10 lakh crores for the fiscal year 2017-18, aiming to boost the availability of credit to farmers. Rural roads have also seen an enhancement, with an allocation of Rs. 27,000 crore, compared to Rs. 19,000 crore in the previous year, ensuring better connectivity and access to markets.
Women's Empowerment and Skill Development
Addressing social inequalities and promoting women's empowerment is a significant aspect of the government's agenda. Initiatives like the Mahila Shakti Kendra, which has received a budget of Rs. 500 crore and serves 14 lakh women, coupled with Gana Wadi centres that focus on skill development, employment, digital literacy, and health care, highlight the government's commitment to empowering women. The allocation to SC development has increased by 35%, to Rs. 31,920 crore, and ST allocation has been raised to Rs. 31,920 crore, while the allocation for minority communities has been increased to Rs. 4,195 crore. These funds are crucial for breaking down barriers and promoting inclusion.
Benefits for Salaried Workers and Positive Reforms
The fiscal budget includes several positive reforms for salaried workers. Those earning between INR 2.5 to 5 lacs will now be subject to a 5% tax rate, marking a significant improvement in tax burden for middle-income earners. Additionally, a new law is proposed to address defaults, which will help in financial integrity. The net revenue target is set to grow by 17% over the last two years, indicating the government's optimistic outlook for economic growth.
New Metro Rail Policy and Jobs for the Youths
To further drive economic growth and create opportunities for the youth, the government is introducing a new metro rail policy, opening up more jobs in the urban areas. This policy not only enhances mobility but also stimulates economic activities in the cities. The focus on affordable infrastructure, recognized as an eligible sector for tax benefits and institutional funding, is expected to attract more investments, further propelling the economy.
Adhar Enabled Payment Systems for a Digital India
The push towards a digital economy is also a key aspect of the government's strategy. The launch of Adhar-enabled payment systems will facilitate easier and more secure transactions, fostering a cashless society. This initiative is crucial for enhancing the functioning of various sectors, including agriculture, retail, and services, and will play a pivotal role in the digital transformation of India.
In conclusion, the successful surgical strike on black money by Narendra Modi and his government's subsequent focused initiatives for rural development have brought about tangible improvements in the lives of Indians. From the boon for farmers to the electrification of villages and targeted empowerment of women, these policies reflect a holistic and inclusive approach to nation-building. The future looks promising as these reforms are expected to continue driving India towards a stronger and more resilient economy.