Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in anticipation of the impending Lok Sabha elections mere months away, has underscored the pivotal significance of “stability” and a “decisive mandate.” Modi, in an interview conducted by the renowned news agency, Press Trust of India (PTI), expounded upon how the governments preceding his, spanning three decades prior to 2014, grappled with instability, thereby impeding substantial progress. It is his contention that the unprecedented stability witnessed over the past nine years has facilitated the implementation of numerous transformative reforms across various sectors.
These pronouncements bear remarkable political gravity, given the 28-party Opposition INDIA alliance’s positioning as a formidable challenger to the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the imminent Lok Sabha elections. The alliance has pledged to unite against the BJP, fielding a united candidate in as many constituencies as possible.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister rekindled discourse on the contentious matter of freebies in the context of imminent state elections. He cautioned against financially imprudent policies and populism, highlighting the adverse long-term repercussions such practices could entail.
Prime Minister Modi, cognizant of India’s forthcoming role as the host of the G20 Heads of State and Government Summit, emphasized the evolving global perspective from a GDP-centric to a human-centric paradigm. He likened this transformation to the reconfiguration of the world order following World War II, asserting that India’s ‘Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas’ model exemplifies a guiding principle for global welfare.
In a multifaceted response, Modi addressed the challenge of debt restructuring, an issue confronting the global South. He noted the increasing importance of financial discipline among countries experiencing debt crises and advocated for it at the state level as well.
India’s G20 Presidency has not only served to bolster confidence in the “so-called” ‘Third World’ but has also triggered a shift from a GDP-centric worldview to one centered on humanity. Modi’s visionary approach, which prioritizes inclusive development and social welfare, has garnered international recognition and is seen as a blueprint for the future.
Moreover, Modi contended that international institutions must adapt to evolving realities, broaden their decision-making fora, reassess their priorities, and ensure representation for voices that matter. Failure to do so may render these institutions obsolete in the 21st century.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Modi’s discourse carries significant implications for the political landscape as India approaches a crucial election season and the G20 Summit beckons with the promise of shaping a new global order.