Opinion | Why Prime Minister Modi’s Third Term is Imperative for India and the World

In the annals of nation-building, leadership stands as the cornerstone, shaping trajectories and influencing global dynamics. In India’s context, the prospect of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third term transcends mere possibility and becomes imperative for Bharat and the global community. With a blend of visionary leadership, pragmatic policies, and unwavering resolve, Prime Minister Modi has steered India towards unprecedented growth and development while enhancing its stature globally. This has established a ‘New India’ imbued with a ‘everything is possible’ confidence.

As we navigate the complexities and uncertainties of this decade, his continued leadership is crucial for realising India’s full potential and fostering a more stable and rules-based global order.

At the heart of Prime Minister Modi’s leadership lies a transformative vision for India that encompasses economic pre-eminence, social empowerment, inclusive and equitable development, and Vishwa Maitri – a leader and reliable global partner committed to fostering welfare, stability, and prosperity worldwide. Since assuming office in 2014, his government has embarked on ambitious initiatives to accelerate economic growth, foster innovation, promote self-reliance – Atmanirbhar Bharat, and inclusive development – Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas. From the implementation of landmark reforms such as the Goods and Services Tax (GST), massive infrastructure development, creation of population-scale digital public infrastructure, and promotion of digitalisation and entrepreneurship, Prime Minister Modi has established a modern, dynamic, the fifth-largest and fastest-growing economy in the world.

Moreover, Prime Minister Modi’s emphasis on social empowerment, welfare measures, and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) has been instrumental in uplifting crores of marginalised individuals. Initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Ujjwala Yojana, Har Ghar Jal, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, and Ayushman Bharat have improved access to essential services and ensured social inclusion, empowerment, and dignity for all.

Furthermore, PM Modi’s leadership has undeniably elevated India’s global standing, transforming the nation into a reliable partner and a beacon of progress on the world stage. Under his leadership, India has emerged as a key player in global affairs, advocating for a rules-based international order, promoting multilateralism, and strengthening bilateral ties with both traditional and emerging partners.

Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, stature, and personal relationships ensured a 100 per cent consensus at the G20 Summit in Delhi. India has also been a global first responder in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR). Keeping with its philosophical belief of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the whole world is one family), India has been playing an essential role in providing HADR in the region and beyond. Operation Maitri provided rescue operations during the earthquake in Nepal in 2015, assistance to Sri Lanka in 2016 during Cyclone Roanu, Madagascar in January 2020, Operation Dost to help Syria and Turkey after the 2023 earthquake, and Vaccine Maitri provided Covid vaccines to over 100 countries.

By championing the cause of the Global South and launching initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, has emerged as a leading voice in the global fight against climate change and natural disasters. Similarly, his unwavering commitment to combatting terrorism and extremism has garnered widespread support from the international community, fostering greater collaboration and coordination in addressing shared security threats.

In light of these accomplishments and the challenges that lie ahead, Prime Minister Modi’s third term in office is imperative for India and the world for several reasons.

Firstly, continuity and stability are essential for sustaining India’s growth and development momentum. The transformative reforms initiated by Prime Minister Modi need time to yield their full benefits, and any disruption in leadership could derail the progress made thus far. By securing a third term in office, Prime Minister Modi will have the opportunity to consolidate his government’s achievements, build upon the strong foundation, spearhead big-bang reforms, navigate through the complexities of a rapidly evolving global landscape and propel India to the third largest economy in the world.

As he recently eloquently articulated in a campaign speech, the last ten years were just like a trailer, and we will now move ahead at an exponential pace!

Secondly, PM Modi’s leadership is indispensable for advancing India’s interests and aspirations on the world stage. As India establishes itself as a leading global power, it requires a leader with a clear vision, strategic insight, and diplomatic finesse. Prime Minister Modi’s proactive approach to foreign policy and his ability to forge meaningful partnerships and alliances positions India favourably in the international arena. His re-election would ensure continuity in India’s foreign policy objectives, strengthening its position as a key player in shaping regional and global dynamics.

Thirdly, as the world’s largest democracy, India is a beacon of democracy and pluralism, setting an example for other nations to emulate. Prime Minister Modi’s commitment to democratic governance, rule of law, and inclusive development reinforces India’s standing as a vibrant and resilient democracy.

In conclusion, a historic third term of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in office is not only imminent but also imperative for India and the world. By securing re-election, PM Modi will have the opportunity to build upon his government’s achievements, accelerate development domestically, advance our interests on the world stage, and further the goal of a developed India or Viksit Bharat by 2047.

The author is an angel investor and startup mentor for the Atal Innovation Mission, Government of India, and the Atal Incubation Centre-Rambhau Mhalgi Prabhodhini. He is presently the Convenor (Western Maharashtra) of the BJP Intellectual Cell and has recently co-edited the book – Modi’s North East Story. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18’s views.