Narendra Modi’s Mandate: Two Years In and the Verdict on Governance

It has been a year since Narendra Modi assumed power in India, and the initial expectations have not been entirely met. While his approach is generally well-regarded, there is a recurring sentiment that more could have been achieved in the first year of his tenure.

The Current State of Governance

Many observers believe that while Modi is making progress, it pales in comparison to the extraordinary expectations that his supporters and the public harbored. His focus on Development seems less urgent, overshadowed by more immediate issues such as the agricultural distress faced by farmers. Following the assurance of 24/7 power supply that was central to his election campaign, citizens in cities like Bangalore are witnessing continued power outages, highlighting the gap between promise and delivery. Similarly, the slow pace of initiatives like Smart Cities has disappointed many who believed such projects would provide a rapid shift to a development model similar to that of Gujarat.

Language, Ideology, and National Welfare

A significant challenge in India is the deep-rooted inclination toward language, ideology, religion, and culture. This often hampers the vision for national welfare. The education system, for instance, needs to be reoriented to prioritize national goals over local leftist sentiments. Leaders can indeed have a significant impact, and they are making their contributions, but major policy decisions require parliamentary approval, which inherently introduces delays. These processes reflect the complexity and nuanced nature of governance in a country as vast and diverse as India.

Decisions and Implementation

The early years of a new government's tenure cannot determine its legacy. A great deal of policy is still in the pipeline, and it is too early to reach a decisive conclusion about Modi's governance style. The country has experienced some profound negative periods under the Congress regime, and it will take considerable time to correct the mistakes and fulfill the uncompleted tasks.

Call for Neutrality

Until policies translate into tangible benefits for the common people, it is advisable to maintain a neutral stance. The government cannot be judged based solely on announcements and high-level decisions. Real success would be achieved when people from all walks of life, especially those from the lower strata, see direct and meaningful improvements in their lives.

Conclusion

Summarising, while there is much to do, it is important to recognize that the path to significant change is not instantaneous. As the country moves forward, it must focus on bridging these gaps, ensuring that governance truly serves the welfare of the nation. The journey to a truly inclusive and prosperous India is ongoing, and the coming years will be critical in determining its success.