Manashimaya
In a historic event, Narendra Modi has been sworn in as India’s prime minister for a third term, marking a significant milestone in the country’s political landscape. Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) managed to form a coalition government despite losing its outright majority, showcasing the dynamic and unpredictable nature of Indian politics.
In the president’s palace in New Delhi, Rashtrapati Bhavan, India’s President Droupadi Murmu administered the oath of office during the swearing-in event. The significance of the occasion was highlighted by the thousands of dignitaries that gathered, including leaders from seven bordering nations, Bollywood celebrities, and well-known entrepreneurs. Shortly before taking the oath of office, Modi posted on X about how honored he was to serve “Bharat,” the term used traditionally in Indian languages to refer to India.
Supporters of Narendra Modi cheered as the 73-year-old leader, dressed in a white kurta tunic and a blue half jacket, took his oath. This moment of celebration was accompanied by chants of “Modi, Modi,” reflecting the widespread public support that has propelled him to this unprecedented third term. Modi, alongside key officials from his Hindu nationalist party and coalition partners, committed to upholding India’s constitution.
Following Modi, several senior ministers from the previous government, including Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah, Nitin Gadkari, Nirmala Sitharaman, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, and Piyush Goyal, took their oaths. The specific portfolios for these ministers are yet to be announced, but their inclusion indicates continuity and stability in Modi’s administration.
Narendra Modi’s political journey is remarkable. From his beginnings as a publicist for the Hindu nationalist Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), he has risen to become only the second leader after Jawaharlal Nehru to serve three consecutive terms as prime minister. Modi’s BJP secured the third term through a multi-stage election, which concluded on 1st June, with support from 14 regional parties within the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance. This coalition is pivotal, as unlike his previous two terms, the BJP did not win an outright majority this time.
Political analysts, like Zoya Hasan from Jawaharlal Nehru University, suggest that Modi’s coalition alliances may pose challenges. Leaders like Chandrababu Naidu and Nitish Kumar, known for their political shrewdness, might test Modi’s leadership, especially as they do not share the BJP’s nationalist agenda. Hasan noted that these allies have connections across the political spectrum, potentially making them targets for opposition overtures.
Economically, Narendra Modi faces the challenge of addressing India’s growing economic disparity. Despite an impressive 8.2 percent growth in the last fiscal year, one of the fastest among major economies, domestic issues such as insufficient job creation, high prices, low incomes, and religious tensions have prompted voters to seek a balance. Modi acknowledged these concerns, emphasizing the importance of the middle class as the country’s driving force.To accomplish these aims, he has promised to concentrate on raising middle-class savings, improving their standard of living, and changing legislation.
The world will be eagerly observing Narendra Modi’s leadership as he begins his third term as prime minister of India. The road ahead is paved with obstacles, but it also presents the possibility of further expansion and advancement under a leader who has already made a lasting impression on the political and economic climate in India.
