Early Life and Education
Narendra Modi was born on September 17, 1950, in Vadnagar, a small town in Gujarat, India. He was the third of six children in a family that ran a tea stall. Growing up in a modest household, Modi learned the values of hard work and determination from an early age. His father, Hiraben Modi, and mother, Damodardas Modi, played significant roles in shaping his early life.
Modi’s early education took place in Vadnagar, where he displayed a keen interest in politics and social issues. He participated in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a Hindu nationalist organization, during his teenage years. This involvement laid the foundation for his political career. After completing high school, Modi pursued a degree in political science from the University of Delhi through correspondence and later earned a Master’s degree in Political Science from Gujarat University.
Political Career Begins
Modi’s political career took off in the 1970s when he became involved with the RSS and later the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). In 1975, during the Emergency declared by then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, Modi was arrested for his opposition to the government. After his release, he worked on strengthening the BJP’s organizational structure in Gujarat. By the 1980s, Modi had risen through the ranks, becoming the BJP’s General Secretary in Gujarat.
Chief Minister of Gujarat
In 2001, Modi was appointed Chief Minister of Gujarat following the resignation of Keshubhai Patel. His tenure was marked by significant economic growth and development initiatives. However, it was also marred by controversy due to the 2002 Gujarat riots, which resulted in the deaths of thousands, primarily from the Muslim community. Modi faced criticism for his handling of the riots, with allegations of negligence and complicity. Nevertheless, he was re-elected in 2007 and 2012, gaining a reputation for his focus on infrastructure development and economic reforms.
Rise to National Prominence
Modi’s leadership in Gujarat caught the attention of the national BJP leadership, and he was seen as a potential candidate for the prime ministerial role. In 2013, the BJP selected him as its candidate for Prime Minister in the 2014 general elections. Modi launched a vigorous campaign, emphasizing development, good governance, and national pride, encapsulated in the slogan “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” (Together with all, Development for all).
His campaign resonated with a diverse electorate, and the BJP won a historic majority in the Lok Sabha elections, securing 282 out of 543 seats. Modi was sworn in as the 14th Prime Minister of India on May 26, 2014.
Prime Ministership: Policies and Initiatives
As Prime Minister, Modi focused on various reforms aimed at transforming India into a global economic powerhouse. Key initiatives included:
- Make in India: Launched in 2014 to encourage manufacturing and attract foreign investment.
- Digital India: A campaign to improve online infrastructure and increase digital literacy across the country.
- Swachh Bharat Abhiyan: A nationwide cleanliness campaign aimed at improving sanitation and hygiene.
- Goods and Services Tax (GST): Implemented in 2017, this major tax reform aimed to unify the country’s complex tax structure and streamline business operations.
- Ayushman Bharat: Launched in 2018, it aimed to provide health insurance to over 500 million people, making it one of the world’s largest health schemes.
- Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India): Initiated in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, this program aimed to boost local manufacturing and reduce dependence on imports.
Controversies and Criticism
Modi’s government has faced criticism on various fronts, including concerns over religious polarization, curbs on freedom of expression, and the handling of dissent. The abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir, was a significant and controversial move that drew mixed reactions. Critics argue that these policies exacerbate communal tensions and threaten India’s secular fabric.
The government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic was also met with scrutiny, especially during the devastating second wave in 2021, when healthcare infrastructure was overwhelmed, leading to widespread suffering.
Re-election and Continued Leadership
Despite the controversies, Modi’s popularity remained high, leading to his re-election in the 2019 general elections, where the BJP secured an even larger majority, winning 303 seats. His second term continued to focus on economic reforms, national security, and infrastructure development.
In recent years, Modi has also sought to position India as a key player on the global stage, engaging with world leaders and participating in international forums like the G20 and BRICS.
Personal Life
Narendra Modi is known for his ascetic lifestyle and disciplined routines. He is a vegetarian and practices yoga regularly. Modi has a keen interest in literature and often shares his thoughts on social media. He has authored several books, including “Convenient Action: Continuity for Change” and “Exam Warriors,” aimed at motivating students.
Legacy and Impact
Modi’s tenure as Prime Minister has been characterized by significant economic initiatives, a focus on nationalism, and an ambitious vision for India’s future. His leadership style, often described as decisive and transformative, has left a lasting impact on Indian politics.
As of 2024, Modi remains a prominent figure on the national and international stage, with a mixed legacy that includes both developmental achievements and contentious political decisions. His ability to connect with the masses and navigate complex political landscapes continues to define his role in Indian politics and the global arena.
