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iS Sue Towards aaTmanirbhar bharaT...

ONE YEAR OF MODI GOVERNMENT 2.0

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 1 Under the charismatic and visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri ji, the nation stands united in its aspirations and a glorious future awaits . Nation has come together to realize the dreams of Self-reliant India.

Shri Jagat PrakaSh Nadda National President Bhartiya Janta Party

2 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 Towards aaTmanirbhar bharaT... ONE YEAR OF MODI GOVERNMENT 2.0

Foreword Shri Jagat PrakaSh Nadda National President, BJP

30 May, 2020

dr. MookerJee SMruti NyaS PP-66, Subramanya Bharati Marg, New delhi-110003

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 3 PREFACE

The Modi government at the centre will be known in the parties in the country. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi history for resolving longstanding problems in the country should be congratulated for showing the political will and with great acumen. These were the problems which were determination in resolving the longstanding problems that considered impossible to find solutions and continued nation faced for decades. Now the time has come to take to stunt the onward march of the nation. These were the the nation to newer heights with commitment, dedication problems which required strong political will, unflinching and hard work. commitment, single minded determination, long-term India is unitedly fighting against the Corona crisis vision and national interest in the heart to resolve. with patience and determination in the leadership of the Apart from launching a large number of innovative Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi drawing appreciation welfare programmes for the poorest of the poor of the from the leaders across the world and from various country, the Modi government has taken many political international agencies. decisions which have created an environment of hope While announcing a package of Rs 20 lakh crore, and trust in the country. One of the most shining example the PM has given a call for ‘Atamnirbhar Bharat’. As of the political commitment and determination of the the PM talks about pre and post Covid world, there is government can be seen in the manner in which Article no doubt that the disruptions created by the Covid 19 370 was amended and implemented on the ground. It crisis are set to haunt the world for a long time. He has was always considered impossible to find a solution of the rightly emphasised the Economy, Infrastructure, System, Kashmir problem and stop further alienation of the people Vibrant Demography and Demand as areas which needs of the state from the rest of India, but the government to be the pillars of a self-reliant India. The aim to secure showed it was possible. The issue of Triple Talaq was quantum jump in economy, infrastructure as an identity of avoided under the immoral pressure of the politics of India, technology driven system, demography as source appeasement but the stand taken by Modi government of energy and full utilization of the demand and supply strengthened the case of gender justice facilitating the chains can pave the path of an India of future, which is liberation of Muslim women from the scourge of such vibrant and self reliant. The bold reforms across sector inhuman practice prevalent in the society. There were with a package which is almost 10% of the country’s GDP continuous attempts to block the judicial process and in will build a self-reliant India. As the mantra of becoming paving the way for the building of grand Shri Ram temple ‘vocal’ about the ‘local’ products gaining momentum, in Ayodhya but the judiciary has come out with a verdict India is set to become ‘global’ in the days to come. which has resolved this longstanding issue creating The first year of Modi government 2.0 is full with peace and harmony in the society. numerous achievements. Many historic decisions were The Citizenship Amendment Bill 2019 also seeks taken under the leadership of the Prime Minister Shri to correct a historical wrong and give relief to the Narendra Modi which will have long term impact on the persecuted minorities of Pakistan, Bangladesh and country. We have tried to take these achievemetns to Afghanistan. The ways in which Congress and its allies our esteemed readers through a special issue of ‘Kamal have tried to oppose this bill have further exposed the Sadesh’, ‘Towards Self-reliant India’. We hope that our vote-bank and appeasement politics of these political readers will find this special issue engaging. - Dr. Shiv Shakti Bakshi

Editor: Prabhat Jha, Executive Editor: Dr. Shiv Shakti Bakshi Associate Editors: Ram Prasad Tripathy, Vikash Anand Creative Editors: Vikas Saini, Bhola Roy Digital Media: Rajeev Kumar, Vipul Sharma Subscription: Satish Kumar

Phone +91(11) 23381428 E-mail [email protected]

https://www.facebook.com/Kamal.Sandesh/ @kamalsandeshbjp www.kamalsandesh.org

4 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 INDEX

1. FOREWORD by bJP natiOnal PREsiDEnt shRi Jagat PRakash naDDa 06 2. hOn’blE PRimE ministER shRi naREnDRa mODi’s lEttER 08 3. ‘hOnOuRED tO sERvE inDia’ 12 4. maJOR achiEvEmEnts OF mODi gOvERnmEnt 2.0 16 5. cOviD-19 PanDEmic cRisis & managEmEnt 26 6. abhiyan 30 7. mODi gOvERnmEnt: 2014 - 2019 34 8. glObal REcOgnitiOns 44 9. inDia’s REPutatiOn On intERnatiOnal FORums EnhancED 48 10. bEginning OF thE nEW ERa OF stRuctuRal changE / 50 11. cOmmittED FOR thE WElFaRE OF tRibals / 52 12. laying FOunDatiOn stOnE FOR ‘aatmaniRbhaR bhaRat’ / PRakash JavaDEkaR 54 13. “Dynamic tEnuRE” OF an inDOmitablE lEaDERshiP / DhaRmEnDRa PRaDhan 56 14. mOving ahEaD tO achiEvE gOal OF a stROng.../ 58 15. mODi gOvERnmEnt 2.0 yEaR OF iDEOlOgy.../ PRabhat Jha 61 16. mODi-Fying gOOD gOvERnancE thROugh.../ DR. vinay sahasRabuDDhE 64 17. mODi gOvERnmEnt’s stROng initiativE / shyam JaJu 68 18. WElFaRE schEmEs OF mODi gOvERnmEnt.../ Dushyant kumaR gautam 70 19. a yEaR OF DElivERing On PROmisEs / baiJayant ‘Jay’ PanDa 72 20. sElF REliancE - Path FOR 21st cEntuRy inDia / muRaliDhaR RaO 74 21. WElFaRE OF thE POOR is thE missiOn / 76 22. math anD EFFEct OF mODi PackagE / s. guRumuRthy 78 23. vOcal tO lOcal anD FROm lOcal.../ anuRag thakuR 80 24. msmEs: thE gROWth EnginE OF.../ PRataP chanDRa saRangi 82 25. nEW inDia is gROWing On thE stREngth.../viJaya RahatkaR 84 26. aatma niRbhaR bhaRat - OPPORtunitiEs.../gOPal kRishna agaRWal 86 27. thE quEst FOR aatma niRbhaR bhaRat / DR aniRban ganguly 88 28. mODi 2.0- FOREign POlicy initiativEs / DR. viJay chauthaiWalE 90 29. mOving tOWaRDs sElF-REliancE in hEalth sEctOR / Ram PRasaD tRiPathi 93 30. mODi gOvERnmEnt tOWaRDs villagE sWaRaJ / vikash ananD 95

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 5 FOREWORD

he first year of the 2nd tenure of Modi of India. It was outcome of 5 years of positive Government has been recorded in golden approach, persistence and perseverance, T letters in the pages of history. In this innovative ideas and result oriented policies while one year, numerous historical decisions have heralding a new work culture in governance, been taken under the charismatic and visionary restoration of institutional mechanism, timely leadership of the Prime Minister Shri Narendra actions and sometimes tough decisions that Modi ji. The problems which used to haunt the helped in restoring credibility of the government. country till now, the problems which used to appear The impact of the conviction and commitment of to be insurmountable, have been resolved in such the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji to the a way as if they never existed. It is the result of nation was seen in a corruption free government the strong political will of the Prime Minister Shri which was able to deliver the fruits of welfare Narendra Modi ji that whether it was Article 370 or programmes directly to the poorest of the poor Citizenship Amendment Act, enacting law on Triple even in the remotest part of the country. It was Talaq or paving the way for building the Lord Shri for the first time that the last man in the society Ram temple at Ayodhya, Bru-Reang agreement became direct beneficiary of the government or Bodo agreement, the nation registered victory welfare programmes and his basic needs were over all such long pending issues. addressed in the form of pucca house, free The massive mandate in favour of BJP led electricity connection, gas cylinder, bank account NDA was the result of transparent governance and other essential amenities while bringing him hard work and inspiring leadership of the Prime under social security net and providing health Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji who liberated India security upto Rs. five lac. from the quagmire of corruption, policy paralysis, While India with its rapid pace of development is indecisiveness, misgovernance and economic mesmerising the world, the respect for our country slowdown with high rates of inflation all pervasive has increased manifold on the international forums during Congress led UPA era. The nation saw a and the path for development of each & every hope in the leadership of Shri Narendra Modi ji section of society is being paved by innovative and gave him a decisive and massive mandate schemes. Covid-19 pandemic has affected almost with BJP getting majority of its own in 2014 Lok every aspect of human life across the world. Today, Sabha elections. It was the first time after around when many countries are facing ‘lockdowns’, an three decades that a single party could muster ambience of hope and trust has been built in the full majority on its own bestowed by the people country about the safe and secure future with the

6 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 announcement of the Rs 20 lakh crore package, infrastructure and become self reliant in many of which is about 10% of GDP, which is so inclusive the medical equipments. Apart from central and and all-embracing that the interest of every section state governments the local bodies at city, town of the society has been taken care of with plan for and village levels, innumerable social, cultural bright future of every sector of the economy. and religious organizations, philanthropists and The allocation of money to farmers, women people at individual levels are serving the masses Jan-Dhan Account holders, labourers, senior and looking after the elderly & sick. Inspired by citizens and others through Direct Benefit Trasfer the clarion call given by the Prime Minister Shri in addressing the immediate problem of the Narendra Modi ji, BJP karyakartas are carrying most vulnerable sections of the society has got due our mammoth relief work at various levels. While recognition all over the world. The free supply of covering 13,796 Mandals in 907 organisational food grains including pulses is helping in reducing districts, 8.25 BJP lakh karyakartas are incessantly distress among the poor in the period of lockdown. working among the people. More than 4.90 crore At the same time the additional allocation of ration kits, 19.28 crore food packets and 5.05 Rs. 40,000 crore to MNREGA will definitely help crore face-masks have been distributed so far. At secure jobs for the migrant labourers returning the same time 8.30 lakh karyakartas have been their villages. The massive village centric support assigned to look after sick and elderly people extended to agriculture and allied activities, while making 53.90 lakh people donate to PM agricultural loans and extension of Kisan Credit CARES fund. In 12.87 lakh booths, #Thank You Card scheme will transform the rural economy in Corona Warriors signature campaigns have been the days to come. The ‘Shramik Special’ trains carried out successfully. have given huge relief to the migrant labourers. The massive mandate of 2019 has not only Under ‘Vande Bharat Mission’ the Indians stuck reposed immense faith in the Modi government but in foreign countries have also been brought back. also enhanced responsibilities to carry forward the Prime Minster Shri Narendra Modi ji’s clarion call hopes and expectations of the largest democracy for ‘Self-reliant India’ is getting massive support in of the world. India is a nation which represents a the entire country. civilization manifested through numerous traditions India has so far been able to fight the Covid-19 celebrating pluralism and diversity since ancient crisis with utmost patience and determination. times. The people know that under the charismatic Under the dynamic and visionary leadership of and visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, the Narendra Modi ji, the nation stands united in its efforts made by India have been appreciated aspirations and a glorious future awaits India. worldwide. The lockdown period has provided an Nation has come together to realize the dreams of opportunity for the country to upgrade its health ‘Self-reliant India’.

(Jagat Prakash Nadda) National President Bharatiya

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 7 HOn’blE PRimE ministER’s lEttER

my fellow indian, This day last year began a golden chapter in the history of Indian democracy. It was after several decades that the people of the country voted back a full term government with a full majority. Once again, I bow to the 130 crore people of India and the democratic ethos of our nation. During normal times, I would have been in your midst. However, the present circumstances do not permit that. That is why, I seek your blessings through this letter. Your affection, goodwill and active cooperation have given new energy, and inspiration. The way you have showcased the collective strength of democracy is a guiding light for the whole world. Back in 2014, the people of the country voted for a substantive transformation. In the last five years, the nation saw how the administrative apparatus broke itself free of status quo and from the swamp of corruption as well as misgovernance. True to the spirit of ‘Antyodaya’ the lives of millions have been transformed. From 2014 to 2019, India’s stature rose significantly. The dignity of the poor was enhanced. The nation achieved financial inclusion, free gas and electricity connections, total sanitation coverage, and made progress towards ensuring ‘Housing for All.’ India demonstrated its mettle through the surgical strike and air strike. At the same time, decades old demands such OROP, One Nation One Tax- GST, better MSP for farmers were fulfilled. In 2019, the people of India voted not merely for continuity but also with a dream of taking India to new heights. A dream of making India a global leader. The decisions taken in the last one year are directed at fulfilling this dream. Today, 130 crore people feel involved and integrated in the development trajectory

8 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 of the nation. The light of ‘Jan Shakti’ and ‘Rashtra Shakti’ has ignited the entire nation. Powered by the Mantra of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas’ India is marching forward in all spheres. my fellow indian, In the last one year, some of the decisions were widely discussed and remain etched in public discourse. The decision on Article 370 furthered the spirit of national unity and integration. The Ram Mandir judgment, delivered unanimously by the Honourable Supreme Court of India, brought an amicable end to a debate persisting for centuries. The barbaric practice of Triple Talaq has been confined to the dustbin of history. Amendment to the Citizenship Act was an expression of India’s compassion and spirit of inclusiveness. But there have been many other decisions that have added momentum to the nation’s development trajectory. The creation of the post of the Chief of Defence Staff was a long pending reform that has improved coordination among the armed forces. At the same time, India has stepped up preparations for Mission Gaganyaan. Empowering the poor, farmers, women and youth has remained our priority. PM Kisan Samman Nidhi now includes all farmers. In just one year, more than 72,000 crore has been deposited in the accounts of over 9 crore 50 lakh farmers. The Jal Jeevan Mission will ensure supply of potable drinking water through piped connections to over 15 crore rural households. A huge campaign of free vaccination is being conducted for better health of our 50 crore livestock. For the first time in our country’s history, farmers, farm labourers, small shopkeepers and workers in unorganised sector are assured the provision of regular monthly pension of Rs. 3000 after the age of 60 years. Besides the facility of availing bank loans, a separate department has also been created for fishermen. Several other decisions have been taken to strengthen the fisheries sector. This will boost the blue economy. Similarly, it has been decided to constitute a Vyapari Kalyan Board for timely resolution of the problems of the traders. Higher quantum of financial assistance is being provided to more than 7 crore women attached to self help groups. Recently the loans without guarantee for self help groups has been doubled to Rs 20 lakh from the earlier 10 lakh. Keeping in mind the education of tribal children, we have begun the construction of more than 400 new Ekalavya Model Residential Schools. Several people friendly laws have been ushered during in the last year. Our Parliament has broken the decadesold record in terms of productivity. As a result, whether it be the Consumer Protection Act, the amendment to Chit Fund Law or laws to provide more protection to women, children and Divyang, their passage in the Parliament

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 9 was expedited. As a result of the policies and decisions of the government, the rural-urban gap is shrinking. For the first time, the number of rural Indian using internet is 10% more than the number of urban Indians. The list of such historic actions and decisions taken in national interest would be too long to detail in this letter. But I must say that every day of this year, my government has worked round the clock with full vigour, taking and implementing these decisions.

my fellow indian, As we were moving ahead at fast pace in the fulfilment of hopes and aspirations of our countrymen, the Coronavirus global pandemic engulfed our country as well. While on one hand are powers with great economic resources and state of the art healthcare systems, on the other hand is our country besieged with problems amidst a vast population and limited resources. Many feared that India will become a problem for the world when Corona hits India. But today, through sheer confidence and resilience, you have transformed the way the world looks at us. You have proven that the collective strength and potential of Indians is unparalleled compared even to the powerful and prosperous countries of the world. Be it clapping and lighting a lamp to the honouring of Corona Warriors by India’s armed forces, Janta curfew or by faithful adherence to rules during the nationwide lockdown, on every occasion you have shown that Ek Bharat is the guarantee for Shrestha Bharat. In a crisis of this magnitude, it can certainly not be claimed that no one suffered any inconvenience or discomfort. Our labourers, migrant workers, artisans & craftsmen in small scale industries, hawkers and such fellow countrymen have undergone tremendous suffering. We are working in a united and determined way to alleviate their troubles. However, we have to take care to ensure that inconveniences that we are facing do not turn into disasters. Hence, it is very important for every Indian to follow all rules and guidelines. We have displayed patience so far and we should continue to do so. This is one of the important reasons for India being safer and in a better state than many other countries. This is a long battle but we have started traversing on the path of victory, and victory is our collective resolve. In the last few days, a super cyclone has wreaked havoc in parts of West Bengal and Odisha. Here too, the resilience of the people of these states is noteworthy. Their courage inspires the people of India.

Dear friends, At such a time, there is also a widespread debate on how the economies of various countries, including India’s, will recover. However, given the way India has surprised the world with its unity and resolve in the fight against Coronavirus, there is a firm

10 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 belief that we will also set an example in economic revival. In the economic domain, through their strength, 130 crore Indians can not only surprise the world but also inspire it. It is the need of the hour that we must become selfreliant. We have to move forward based on our own abilities, in our own way, and there is only one way to do it – Aatmanirbhar Bharat or Selfreliant India. The recent Rs 20 lakh crore package given for Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan is a major step in this direction. This initiative will usher in a new era of opportunities for every Indian, be it our farmers, workers, small entrepreneurs or youth associated with start ups. The fragrance of Indian soil along with the sweat, hard work and talent of our workers will create products that will reduce India’s dependence on imports and will move towards selfreliance.

Dear friends, In this journey of the last six years, you have continuously showered me with love and blessings. It is the strength of your blessings that has made the nation take historic decisions and progress rapidly in the last one year. However, I am also aware that there is a lot that needs to be done. There are many challenges and problems that our country faces. I am working day and night. There could be deficiencies in me but there is nothing that our country lacks. So, I believe in you, your strength and your abilities even more than I believe in myself. The source of strength for my resolve is you, your support, blessings and affection. Due to the global pandemic this is certainly a time of crisis but for us Indians this is also a time for a firm resolve. We must always remember that the present and future of 130 crore will never be dictated by an adversity. We will decide our present and our future. We will move ahead on the path of progress and victory will be ours. It is said that- कृत륍 मे द啍�णे हसते, जयो मे सवय आ啍हतः This means, if we have action and duty on one hand, then success is assured in the other hand. With prayers for our country’s success, I bow to you once again. My heartiest wishes to you and your family. Stay healthy, stay safe!!! Stay aware, stay informed!!!

Your Pradhan sevak narendra modi

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 11 12 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 ‘honoured To serve india’ PM NareNdra Modi aNd 57 MiNiSterS take oath of office aNd Secrecy

sAbkA sAAtH, sAbkA VikAs, sAbkA VisHWAs After a landslide victory in the 2019 elections, the leader of NDA Shri Narendra Modi was sworn in as the for the second term on 30 May, 2019 in New Delhi. Hon’ble President Shri Ram Nath Kovind administered the oath of office and secrecy to Shri Narendra Modi and his cabinet at a glittering and grand swearing-in ceremony.

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 13 part from the leaders of BIMSTEC countries, including Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal and Bhutan, heads of the states from Kyrgyzstan and Mauritius a graced the ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, Bhutanese Prime Minister Lotay Tshering, Bangladesh President Abdul Hamid, Special Envoy of Thailand, Minister Grisada Boonrach, Myanmar President U Win Myint also attended the swearing-in ceremony. After Shri Narendra Modi, Shri , Shri , Shri Nitin Gadkari, Shri D V Sadananda Gowda, Smt. , Shri Ram Vilas Paswan and former foreign secretary Shri S. Jaishankar were administered the oath of office. After taking the oath PM Shri Narendra Modi tweeted, “Honoured to serve India!” Prior to the oath taking ceremony Shri Narendra Modi also visited Rajghat, Sadaiv Atal Samadhi and National War Memorial to pay homage. This was the second time Shri Modi took the oath at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan. He was sworn-in by the then President Shri Pranab Mukherjee in 2014 in the presence of over 5000 guests including the heads of SAARC countries. Earlier, Chandra Shekhar in 1990 and in 1999 were sworn-in at the sprawling forecourt. Notable, with a massive mandate in the Lok Sabha elections 2019, the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) won 353 of 543 seats in the lower house of Parliament.

14 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 PM NareNdra Modi BowS Before coNStitutioN of iNdia

rime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Parliament before walking towards the bowed and respectfully touched Constitution, which was placed atop a P the Constitution of India with his risen platform with a white cloth. forehead, as he walked towards the The gesture reminisced of his action in podium after being elected as the leader 2014. As he stepped into the Parliament of the NDA and BJP parliamentary party for the first time after storming the BJP after a landslide victory in 2019 Lok into power with massive majority Shri Sabha elections. Narendra Modi bent down with his Prime Minister Shri Modi humbly forehead touching the stairs of Parliament greeted the newly elected MPs with House, to register his high respect for the folded hands in the Central Hall of the temple of democracy.

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 15 major achievemenTs of modi governmenT 2.0

16 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 HISTORIC DECISIONS

Article 370 revoked, Two new Union Territories - Jammu Kashmir and came into existence: The Article 370 was revoked for the rapid development of the state. The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Bill 2019 was approved by President Shri Ram Nath Kovind on 9 August. Two new Union Territories - Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh came into existence on 31 October.

Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019: The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 enabled the Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian communities who came to India due to religious persecution from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan to get Indian citizenship. This act will be written on the pages of history with golden letters.

Tripal Talaq: It is the strong will of the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and his commitment towards the Constitution that the Modi government gave its opinion in favor of crores of Muslim women in the Supreme Court. With the Supreme Court’s decision on Triple Talaq, today, crores of Muslim women are breathing free air from the stigma of this evil practice. In this regard, the Modi government empowered Muslim women by enacting a strong law ‘Muslim Women (Protection of Marriage Rights) Bill, 2019’ on Triple Talaq. TRIPAL TALAQ BILL PASSED

Bru-Reang Agreement: A landmark agreement between the , the Government of Tripura and Mizoram and the Bru-Reang representatives was signed in New Delhi on 16 January. In a landmark decision on settling the Bru-Reang community in Tripura, this new agreement will provide permanent solution to this huge human problem that has been going on for nearly 23 years and about 34 thousand people will be settled in Tripura.

TOWARDS AATMANIRBHAR BHARAT I SPECIAL ISSUE I 17 sEVERAl lAnDmARk DECisiOns tAkEn in tHE FiRst mEEting OF tHE CAbinEt • Voluntary and contributory pension scheme for small and marginal farmers (SMFs) across the country • 14.5 crore farmers will be benefited from Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana: additional 2 crore more farmers will get benefit from the revised scheme. • 3 crore retail traders and shopkeepers benefited from the new pension scheme: Under this scheme shopkeepers, retail traders and self-employed people have been ensured a minimum monthly pension of Rs 3000 after attaining the age of 60 years. • the government reduced the Esi contribution rate from 6.5 percent to 4 percent. This will benefit 3.6 crore employees and 12.85 lakh employers.

• Kartarpur Corridor Dedicated to the Nation: Paved the Path for Indian pilgrims can now go to Gurdwara Kartarpur the construction Saheb in Pakistan with the commencement of check of Ram temple: The post of Kartarpur Corridor. Supreme Court in a • Bodo Agreement: The historic Bodo Agreement unanimous decision has paved the path for surrender of 1500 armed on November 9, Bodo militants helping them to join mainstream. paved the Path for the The Government has also approved a special construction of Ram package of Rs. 1500 crore for the development of temple at the disputed Bodo reason. site in Ayodhya and directed the Center to • More than 1 crore beneficiaries under provide a plot of five 'Ayushman bharat': India has achieved a huge acres land to Sunni sucsses in providing benefits to more than 1 crore Waqf Board for the people under 'Ayushman Bharat Yojana'. construction of the • 5years of Atal Pension Yojana: Atal Pension new mosque. The Yojana has achieved extraordinary work by Modi government has registering 2.23 crore people. The scheme was announced a ‘Trust’ launched with the objective of providing old age for the construction of income security to workers in the unorganized the temple as per the sector and guaranteeing minimum pension after the court order. age of 60 years. • Huge jump in ‘Ease of Doing Business’

18 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 Report: India jumped from 142nd position to • Expansion of 'Pradhan mantri Vay Vandana 63rd position as a result of continuous concrete Yojana': The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime measures taken by the BJP-led NDA government. Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 20 May 2020 gave India improved its ranking in World Bank's 'Doing its approval to enable the welfare of senior citizens Business Report' by leaping from the lower 142nd and old age income security. position in 2014. It has reached 63rd position in the year 2019. Pakistan to reconsider the execution of kulbhushan Jadhav sentenced to death: • budget for $5-trillion economy: Soon after international Court of Justice assuming office for the second term in 30 May, 2019 the Narendra Modi-led government set a the international Court of Justice (iCJ) ruled target of taking the economy to USD 5 trillion over on 17 July that Pakistan should reconsider the next five years till 2024. India’s GDP is currently the death sentence awarded to an indian estimated at around USD 3 trillion. citizen mr. kulbhushan Jadhav. this is a big victory for india.  At present, India is the fifth-largest economy in the world, with GDP • Cabinet approves of $2.94 trillion in creation of 40 lakh 2019, according metric tonnes of to the IMF’s sugar reserves: To World Economic create a safe stock of 40 Outlook of lakh metric tons (LMT) October 2019. The of sugar from August US, China, Japan 4, 2019 to July 31, 2020 and Germany are (for one year) and for larger economics. this a maximum of Rs.  The government 1674 crores fund is is working hard estimated. to realize Prime • bharat Ratna Minister Shri conferred on Pranab Narendra Modi’s Mukherjee, Nanaji dream of making Deshmukh, bhupen the country a Hazarika: Former five trillion dollar President Shri Pranab economy by 2024 Mukherjee, renowned and has taken social worker Nanaji many steps in that Deshmukh and singer direction. Shri Bhupen Hazarika  The government proposed to spend Rs were awarded the country's highest civilian honour 30,42,230 crore in the budget 2020-21, which is Bharat Ratna on 8 August. 12.7% higher than the revised estimate of 2019- 20.  Among big budget allocations Defence sector got 4,71,378 crore, Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare got 1,42,762crore, Rural Development got 1,22,398 crore, Health and Family Welfare got 67,112 crore, Human Resource Development got 99,312 crore etc.  Start-ups are allowed to get a full tax waiver on profits for any three consecutive years.

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 19 • Parliament approves Rti Amendment bill: integral part of Indian culture. Parliament on 25 July approved a Bill amending the • Corporate tax reduced to 22% for domestic Right to Information (RTI) Act. The Modi government companies and 15% for new domestic is committed to transparency, public participation manufacturing companies. Effective tax rate and simplification. is down by around 10 percent: To accelerate • successful test of surface-to-air quick- economic growth and boost investment and response missile: Defense Research employment generation, the NDA government led Development Organization (DRDO) successfully by BJP at the Center has on 20 September 2019, launched a state-of-the-art quick-response surface- announced huge cuts in corporate tax. With this to-air missile from Integrated Test Range (ITR) at fresh incentive of the government, the effective Chandipur on August 4. rate of corporate tax has come down by about 10 percent. • President approved the bill to increase the number of judges in • national Pension supreme Court: On scheme for traders August 10, President and self-Employed Shri Ram Nath Kovind Persons: This pension signed a bill to increase scheme is meant for the the number of judges in merchants (shopkeepers the Supreme Court from / retail traders and self- 30 to 33 besides the employed persons) Chief Justice. whose annual turnover does not exceed Rs. 1.5 • Eight Apache crores came into effect Combat Helicopters from 22 July 2019. joined the Air Force: Apache Helicopter will • national Animal increase the firepower Disease Control and of Indian Air Force. The National Artificial Apache AH-64E is the i nsemination world's most advanced Program: The multi-role combat expenditure of helicopter. this program, fully sponsored by the Central • Four big banks Government, is Rs 12652 formed by merger of crore. In an effort to 10 banks: The NDA government announced the reduce both these diseases, more than 60 crore merger of 10 nationalized bank on 30 August 2019 animals will be vaccinated across the country. The in a big initiative to create world-class banks in the programme was lounched by PM on 11 September country. This initiative which came into effect on 1 2019. April 2020 will not only accelerate economic growth, but will also help the country to build a $ 5 trillion • Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana economy. Reaches One Crore Beneficiaries: The government's flagship scheme for pregnant women • big gift to sugarcane farmers in form of Rs and lactating mothers - Pradhan Mantri Matru 6,286 crore subsidy: On 28 August 2019, during Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) - has reached more than the sugarcane season 2019-20 government gave one crore beneficiaries. A total amount of more than its approval for providing export subsidy at the rate 4,000 crores has been disbursed to the beneficiaries of Rs 10,448 per metric ton for sugar mills. under the scheme. • Prime minister launches 'Fit india' campaign: • Rural india became free from open Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi launched the 'Fit defecation: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi India Campaign' on 29 August, terming fitness an declared the country free from open defecation on

20 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 2 October in Ahmedabad. He said that construction was held at the establishment of Rafale aircraft of toilets is not enough, but it is also necessary manufacturer Dassault Aviation in France. to make their use part of the habit. The Prime • ins nilgiri launched: On 28 September, Minister said that the country's productivity has also Defense Minister Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurated increased due to the cleanliness drive. the warship 'INS Nilgiri'. Shri Rajnath Singh said • making india free of single-use plastic by that the government is making concerted efforts the year 2022: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to modernize the navy and equip it with the best said that by 2022, we have to achieve the goal of platforms, weapons and sensors to deal with any making the country free of single-use plastic. traditional and unconventional threats to India's maritime interests. • Financial assistance to the families of the martyrs increased four time from Rs. 2 to 8 • Residents of 1797 unauthorized colonies lakhs: The financial assistance given to the families of Delhi gets the ownership right: 40 lakh of those who lost their people will get benefit. lives in war or to the The Union Cabinet on 23 Divyang soldiers has October approved the been increased four regularization of Delhi's times. On October unauthorized colonies 5, the proposal to which enabled residence increase the existing of these colonies to get amount of Rs 2 lakh to ownership right. 8 lakh was approved. • merger of bsnl This amount will be and mtnl: Approval of given under the Army Rs 68,751 crore revival War Casualty Welfare package. The central Fund (ABCWF). government approved a • more than 90 lakhs Rs 68,751-crore revival houses sanctioned package for public sector under Pradhan telecom companies Mantri Awas Yojana BSNL and MTNL on (Urban): The Central 23 October. 2019 This Clearance and includes merger of MTNL Monitoring Committee with BSNL, Voluntary (CSMC) approved the Retirement Scheme (VRS) proposal to construct for employees and 4G 1.23 lakh houses for the partner states with an spectrum allocation. investment of Rs 4,988 crore. Central assistance of • Rs. 5.5 lakhs given to 5300 kashmiri families Rs 1,805 crore will be provided by the Government who came from Pakistan Occupied Jammu of India. & kashmir: The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime • Delhi-katra Vande bharat Express launched: Minister Shri Narendra Modi announced financial Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah flagged off the assistance to 5300 families displaced from Pakistan Delhi-Katra Vande Bharat Express train from New Occupied Kashmir and settled in diffrent states Delhi Railway Station on 3 October 2019. of India. Now these families will be given financial assistance of Rs.5.5 lakh from the center. • India received the first Rafale aircraft from France on 8 October 2019: In the ceremony • Rs 25,000 crore approved for 4.58 lakh organized to hand over the first aircraft in a series unfinished flats: It will help to complete 1,600 of 36 Rafale fighter jets purchased from France, stalled projects. The Union Cabinet on 6 November Defense Minister Shri Rajnath Singh said that the approved the creation of Rs 25,000 crore Alternative French-made Rafale fighter aircraft will further Investment Fund (AIF) to complete 4.58 lakh strengthen the Indian Air Force. The ceremony unfinished flats. Government will give 10 thousand

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 21 crores rupees and State Bank of India and LIC will Keeping in mind the needs and demands of the give 15 thousand crores rupees. armed forces, the government had reviewed the existing provisions. • india among the top countries providing favorable environment for financial inclusion: • Approval to start bharat bond Exchange India is among the top countries in providing traded Fund: bharat bond EtF will be the favorable environment for financial inclusion. A first corporate bond in the country: The report released on 31 October stated that India has Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) allowed its non-banking sector to issue e-money, chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on providing an environment of proportional consumer December 4 approved Bharat Bond Exchange scrutiny and effective consumer protection. Traded Fund (ETF). • Rejection of RCEP in the national interest: • Dadra and nagar Haveli and Daman and India rejected Regional Comprehensive Economic Diu (merger of Union territories) bill, 2019 Partnership. Today's India is not one to bow passed: The Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman before the international pressure, but is capable of and Diu (Merger of Union Territories) Bill, 2019 was protecting its own passed in December. interests. The merger of Union Territories of Dadra • i nauguration and Nagar Haveli of kalaburgi and Daman and Airport under Diu Bill was brought Udaan / Regional keeping in mind Connectivity the requirements of s cheme: meaningful utilization Significantly, 230 of officers and routes and 42 employees, increasing airports have been administrative operated under efficiency, reducing 'Udaan' so far. The administrative flight will connect expenses, providing all the states and better services and union territories of ensuring better India with about 700 monitoring of air routes, laying schemes. the foundation for a new regional • india successfully connectivity in conducted flight India's aviation test of two Pinak sector. missiles: Two test firing were carried out by Defense Research and • Jallianwala bagh national memorial Development Organization (DRDO) as part of the (Amendment) bill, 2019 passed by series of flight tests of Pinak missile system. The Parliament: In this bill, an attempt was made to mission objectives of this test were to test low range, make the Trust governing body apolitical by removing test live warhead working systems with proximity the clause relating to making the President of the fuses. Indian National Congress a permanent member of the Trust. • Appointment of the first Chief of Defense staff: The NDA government created a new • Approval to increase government Department of Military Affairs in the Ministry of accommodation for war-injured soldiers Defense and the newly appointed Chief of Defense from three months to one year: It was decided Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat will head it. The to increase the government accommodation for new department will have functions related to the war-injured soldiers from three months to one year.

22 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 three armies - the Army, Navy and Air Force.  The new e-Gram app will help in accelerating projects in villages from planning to completion • 'Atal Bhujal Yojana' introduced: Prime Minister while Swamitva Yojana will use drones in mapping Shri Narendra Modi launched 'Atal Bhujal Yojana' of properties in villages. on 25 December, which will benefit 8,350 villages in seven states. He also named the tunnel connecting  According to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Leh and Manali as 'Atal Tunnel'. the new mode of e-governance will help in reducing disputes over property and the portal • Aadhaar allotted to 125 crore residents of will make it easier for villagers to avail loans from india: The Unique Identification Authority of India banks. (UIDAI) announced on 27 December that the Aadhaar project has achieved a new milestone  The Prime Minister said it is a step towards by crossing the 125 crore mark. This means that complete digitization of Gram Panchayats and in more than 125 crore residents of India have 12-digit future, it will become the single platform which unique identification. will keep the records of all the works taken up by the Gram Panchayats. • Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Port Trust: The Prime Minister also announced the name of • Central government defines domicile Port Trust after Dr. for Jammu & Shyama Prasad kashmir: The central Mukherjee. government in its latest gazette notification on • Welfare scheme 31 March, 2020 stated for pensioners that any person who of kolkata Port has resided in the trust: Prime Union Territory of J&K Minister Shri for the period of fifteen Narendra Modi years or has studied handed over a for the period of seven cheque of Rs years and appeared 501 crore as last in secondary and installment to meet higher secondary the shortage of board examination pension fund of would be considered retired and existing as domicile of J&K employees of and appointed in the Kolkata Port Trust. services there. He also honored two of Kolkata  The new gazette Port Trust's oldest notification states that pensioners, Mr. a migrant registered Nagina Bhagat by the Relief and (105 years) and Mr. Naresh Chandra Chakraborty Rehabilitation Commissioner (Migrants) in the (100 years). newly formed Union Territory would also be considered as domicile. The children of parents • Pm modi launches E-gRAm sWARAJ app who have stayed in J&K for 15 years or are and SWAMITVA YOJANA on Panchayati Raj registered as migrants would also be considered Day: In another e-governance move the Prime as domicile. Minister Shri Narendra Modi on April 24, 2020 launched e-Gram Swaraj portal and Swamitva  The children of those central government Yojana, which will conduct their operations online. officials, All India service officials, Officials of The two new digital platforms are part of the central Public sector undertaking, autonomous body government’s plan to push growth in villages. of central government, public sector banks, officials of statuary bodies officials of central

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 23 universities and recognized research institutes of Approved: The Union Cabinet on 19 February central government who have served in J&K for approved the second phase of Swachh Bharat a period of ten years would also be considered Mission (Rural). In this, after getting rid of open as domicile for purpose of appointment to any defecation, the focus will be on better facilities (ODF service in J&K. Plus) in public toilets. Approval of 'Establishment and Promotion of Farmer Producer Organizations'  The notification has been issued by the Ministry for the formation and promotion of 10,000 new of Home Affairs in exercise of powers conferred FPOs. On 19 February, to ensure comprehensive by section 96 of the J&K Reorganization Act, benefits of the economy for the farmers, it approved 2019, under section 14 referred to as the J&K the formation of 10,000 new FPOs during the five- Civil Services ‘Decentralization and Recruitment year period from 2019-2022 to 2023-24. Assistance Act’. will be continued for india becomes five years from the the 5th largest inception year of each economy in the FPO. world —imF: • more than Under the decisive 81 percent women and visionary account holders leadership of shri under stand-up narendra modi, india scheme: The india has become Ministry of Finance the fifth largest has launched various economy in the schemes in the world with a gDP of last six years, with $ 2.94 trillion. When special provisions shri narendra modi to empower women. took over the office These schemes have in 2014, india was empowered women ranked 9th in the financially to live better world economy. lives and fulfill their According to dreams of becoming data released by entrepreneurs. the imF's World Economic Outlook • s tand-up in October, india india scheme: As now surpassed on 17 Feb 2020, 81 France, britain and became the 5th largest percent account holders were women under the economy in the world. Stand-up India Scheme. 16712.72 crore has been sanctioned for women account holders. 9106.13 the country's gDP growth rate has been crore was disbursed to women account holders. one of the highest in the world in the last decade - which has regularly increased at • Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY): As on 31 an annual rate of 6-7%. Jan 2020, more than 22.53 crore loans have been approved after the launch of the scheme. Out of this, • Five years of 'soil Health Card' scheme over 15.75 crore loans have been given to women, completed: On February 2020, five years of the 70% of the total loan borrowers are women. 'Soil Health Card' scheme were completed. Under this scheme, 10.74 crore soil health cards were • Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY): distributed to farmers during the year 2015-17 Out of 38.33 crore beneficiaries as on 19 Feb 2020, (cycle-1) and 11.74 crore to soil health cards during 20.33 crore beneficiaries are women, which is 53%. the year 2017-19 (cycle-2). • Atal Pension Yojana (APY): The scheme is open • (Rural) Phase-two for membership through banks and post offices. As

24 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 on 22 Feb 2020, more than 93 lakh beneficiaries • govt approves changes in POCsO Act, (43%) are women out of approximately 2.15 crore includes death penalty for sexual offences total subscribers under APY. against children: To combat rising cases of child sex abuse, the Union Cabinet on 10 July, 2019 • Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana approved amendments to strengthen the POCSO (PmJJbY): Under PMJJBY, 40.70% of the Act by including death penalty for aggravated enrollments are of women members and 58.21% of sexual assault on children, besides providing the beneficiaries are women. Of the total 4,71,71,568 stringent punishments for other crimes against names recorded (as on 31 Jan 2020), 1,91,96,805 minors, officials said: women have registered their names. Out of a total of 1,69,216 claims, 95,508 claims of women beneficiaries  The proposed changes in the Protection of have been paid. Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act also provide for fines and imprisonment to curb • Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana child pornography. (PmsbY): Under PMSBY, 41.50% of the enrollments are of women members and 61.29%  The modification in the law will address the of the beneficiaries are women. (As on 31 Jan need for stringent measures against rising 2020) Of the total 15,12,54,678 names registered, trend of child sex abuse in the country and 6,27,76,282 were registered by women. Out of a combat the menace of relatively new kind of total of 38,988 claims, 23,894 claims have been crimes and the strong penal provisions will act paid to women beneficiaries. (As on 31.01.2020) as a deterrent.

tOWARDs bECOming A sPACE sUPERPOWER • India successfully launches ‘Moon Mission-2’: India becomes the fourth country to land on moon after Russia, US, China India successfully launched its second lunar mission “Chandrayaan-2” on 22 July 2019 from Satish Dhawan Space Center (SDSC) in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh with the aim of “taking countless dreams to the moon”. • Chandrayaan-2 successfully orbited the moon: The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) successfully orbited Chandrayaan-2 on 20 August 2019, a major achievement. • successful launch of Cartosat-3 and 13 commercial nano satellites: India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle has launched 13 Nano satellites of US with Cartosat-3 in its 49th flight (PSLV-C47) at Satish Dhawan Space Center (SDSC) on 27 November 2019. • Fifth flight of PSLV: Successful launch of RISAT-2 BR1 and nine commercial satellites. India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle successfully launched the RISAT-2 BR1 and nine commercial satellites in its fiftieth flight (PSLV-C48) from Satish Dhawan Space Center (SDSC), Sriharikota on 11 December 2019. • India’s latest communication satellite ‘GSAT-30’: India’s latest communication satellite ‘GSAT-30’ was successfully launched from the French Guiana spaceport on 17 January 2020.

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 25 covid-19 Pandemic crisis & managemenT

‘JAAn HAi toH JAHAAn HAi’

26 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 ‘JAntA cUrFeW’ earlier had appealed to the citizens to switch off lights for PM Shri Narendra Modi in a televised address to the 09 minutes at 09 PM to show solidarity in the fight against nation on 19 May, 2020 urged citizens to follow the ‘Janta Coronavirus. Curfew’ on 22 March, 2020 from 7 AM to 9 PM to stop the spread of Coronavirus in the country. The PM urged the PM’s 07 stePs in FiGHt AGAinst coronA PAnDeMic citizens to thank the Selfless Service Providers of the nation Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 14 April, 2020 at 5 PM on the same day and said the success of such a announced the extension of lockdown till 3rd May, 2020. people’s movement and our efforts would be a symbol of Addressing the Nation in combating the spread of the our self restraint and determination to perform duty in the corona virus, PM said the extension of lockdown was national interest. decided keeping in mind suggestions from many states, ‘JAAn HAi toH JAHAAn HAi’ experts and the people. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in a televised Shri Modi Exhorted the Citizens to Follow Seven Steps address to the Nation on 24 March, 2020 called for a In their Fight Against the Pandemic. complete lockdown of the entire nation for the next 21 days • To take special care of the elderly, especially those who beginning at midnight on 24 March, 2020 in an effort to have chronic disease. contain the COVID-19 Pandemic. The Prime Minister said • To completely adhere to the ‘Lakshman Rekha’ of the social distancing is the only option to mitigate it. Lockdown and Social Distancing; use homemade face- covers and masks without fail. PM Joins tHe nAtion in LiGHtinG LAMPs on 5 • To follow the instructions issued by AYUSH ministry to APriL enhance immunity. PM Shri Narendra Modi joined the nation in lighting a • To download the ‘Arogya Setu’ Mobile App to help lamp after turning off all lights at his residence in New Delhi prevent the spread of corona infection. Inspire others to on 5 April, 2020. Shri Modi, during his address to the nation download the app as well.

MoDi Govt. reDUces sALAries oF PM, GovernMent creAtes PM cAres FUnD Ministers, MPs by 30% For A yeAr & sUsPenDs MPLAD For 2 yeArs The Prime The Union Cabinet approved a 30% cut in the Minister’s salaries of all Members of Parliament and a two- Citizen year suspension of the MP Local Area Development Assistance (MPLAD) scheme so that the amount saved can and Relief in go to the Consolidated Fund of India to fight Emergency COVID-19. Situations • The Cabinet, chaired by PM Shri Narendra Modi Fund (PM on 19 April, 2020 approved an ordinance to amend CARES the Salaries, Allowances and Pension of Members Fund) was of Parliament Act, 1954, to cut the salaries of MPs created on 28 by 30%. March 2020, • All MPs, including the Prime Minister and his following the Council of Ministers, would take the salary cut for COVID-19 pandemic in India. The fund will be used for financial year 2020-2021. In addition, the Cabinet combating, containment and relief efforts against the had decided to suspend the MPLAD funds for Coronavirus outbreak and similar pandemic like situations 2020-2021 and 2021-2022. The amount saved in the future. The Prime Minister is the chairman of the from scheme would be Rs.7,900 crore. trust. Trustees include the Defence, Home and Finance • Union Minister Shri Prakash Javadekar also Ministers. informed that President Shri Ram Nath Kovind, PM CARES Fund Trust allots Rs 3,100 crore for fight Vice-President Shri M. , as well as against Coronavirus on 13 May, 2020. Out of Rs 3,100 all Governors, had decided of their own volition to crore, a sum of around Rs 2,000 crore will be earmarked take a 30% salary cut. for the purchase of ventilators, Rs 1,000 crore will be • The entire amount saved would go to the used for care of migrant labourers and Rs100 crore will Consolidated Fund of India. be given to support vaccine development.

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 27 • To take care of poor categories, altogether 28,532 families; to fulfil their food Indian nationals came back requirements. from 30 different countries. • To be compassionate Under ‘Samudra Setu’ Indian towards the people who Navy Vessels brought back work in every individual 1,488 Indians. business or industry. Do not deprive them of their ‘vAnDe bHArAt Mission’ livelihood. brinGs bAcK 50 • To pay utmost respect eXPectAnt MotHers to our nation’s Corona National Carrier Air India Warriors – our doctors under ‘Vande Bharat Mission’ and nurses, sanitation brought 50 expecting workers and police force. mothers in one flight from London to Hyderabad on 11 PM MoDi Uses ‘GAMcHA May, 2020. Due to prevailing MAsK’ pandemic situation in Leading by example London, the gynecologists Prime Minister Shri Narendra are not examining pregnant Modi used a face cover of ladies. This is something Manipuri Gamcha, during which compelled them to his address to the nation on return to India. 14 April, 2020. Wherein, he announced an extension of the Coronavirus lockdown till 03 May. PM Shri Modi said Govt set UP robUst HeALtH inFrAstrUctUre Lengyan Gamcha is a symbol of unity. FOR COVID-19 Adequate health infrastructure and health facilities have SWISS ALPS LIGHTED WITH INDIAN TRI-COLOUR been identified and set up for COVID-19 management in the Switzerland has expressed solidarity with India in its country. Till today there are 7,740 facilities in 483 districts fight against the Coronavirus pandemic by projecting have been identified in all the states/UTs that include the Indian Tricolor of more than 1000 meters in size on hospitals and facilities of the state/UT governments as well the famous Matterhorn mountain in the Swiss Alps on 18 as the central government. There are 6,56,769 isolation April, 2020 to give “hope and strength” after India under beds, 3,05,567 beds for confirmed cases, 3,51,204 beds PM Shri Narendra Modi supplied HCQ tablets & leads the for suspected cases, 99,492 oxygen supported beds, 1,696 #Covid_19 battle. facilities with oxygen manifolds and 34,076 ICU beds. inDiA evAcUAtes 1444 nAtive & ForeiGners 1 testinG LAborAtory in JAnUAry to 610 in MAy beFore LocKDoWn Till 25 May, India has 610 testing laboratories — 432 As the Coronavirus epidemic spreads globally, Indian public and 178 private which are currently testing 1.1 government left no stone unturned to help its nationals lakh samples daily. In January, 2020 the country has only stranded in different countries hit by the virus. The Modi 01 testing laboratory. The testing capacity has also been government has evacuated 1444 persons, including 48 increased to 1.4 lakh samples per day. nationals from countries such as Maldives, Myanmar, Bangladesh, China, US, Madagascar, Sri Lanka in the pre INDIA’S COVID-19 FATALITY RATE LOWEST IN WORLD lockdown period. The Covid-19 fatality rate in India is among the lowest in the world at 2.87 per cent, as per the government data inDiA brinGs bAcK over 28,000 strAnDeD on 26 May, 2020. Timely lockdown, early detection and nAtionALs FroM 30 coUntries management of Coronavirus infection cases are the main India has brought back over 28,500 nationals stranded reasons for the low death toll. From 3.38 per cent in April, in over 30 countries during the first two phases of a massive the fatality rate in the country has come down to 2.87 per and complex repatriation process under the ‘Vande cent as against 6.4 per cent globally. Bharat’ and ‘Samudra Setu’ missions. 4921 students, Among other countries France has a fatality rate of 19.9 3969 professionals, 5936 workers, 3254 tourists, 3588 per cent followed by Belgium at 16.3, Italy at 14.3, UK at visitors, 610 deportees, 429 who were granted amnesty in 14.2, Spain 12.2, Sweden 11.9, Canada 7.6, Brazil 6.3, the different countries, 551 crew as well as 5272 from different US at 6.0, China 5.5 and Germany at 4.6 per cent.

28 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 0.3 DeAtHs Per LAKH in inDiA AGAinst 4.5 DeAtHs FroM ‘Zero’ inDiA noW ProDUces More tHAn 3 GLobALLy LAKH PPes & N95 MASKS PER DAY India has 0.3 deaths per lakh population as against India has significantly ramped up its domestic the 4.5 deaths globally, which is among the lowest in the production capacity of PPEs and N95 masks in just two world. This has been due to lockdown, timely identification months time and became the second biggest producer and better management of COVID-19 cases. According to of the world. From zero production in February 2020, the WHO Report Belgium has 81.2 deaths per lakh population country is producing more than 3 lakh PPEs and 3 lakh N95 while Spain has 61.5 deaths per population and UK has masks per day till mid May. reported 55.3 deaths per lakh population. Italy, France, Sweden, US, Canada, Brazil and Germany have 54.3, 42.3, inDiAn nAvy DeveLoPs PPe MADe oF sPeciAL 39.3, 29.3, 17.2, 10.5 and 10.0 deaths per lakh population FAbric respectively. In a major step a low cost PPE has been developed by Indian Navy at Institute of Naval Medicine, . Union GovernMent LAUncHes “AAroGyA setU” Towards rapid mass production of the Medical Personal As a prominent preventive measure, the Modi Protective Equipment a Patent was also successfully filed Government has launched an application called ‘Aarogya by Min of Defence. Setu’. This is a toll-free service enables people to assess themselves the risk of their catching the Corona Virus MicroWAve steriLiZer ‘AtULyA’ DeveLoPeD infection. India’s ‘Aarogya Setu’ becomes world’s highest Defence Institute of Advanced Technology, Pune downloaded app in just 13 days. supported by DRDO has developed a microwave sterilizer named as ‘ATULYA’ to disintegrate (COVID-19). The virus inDiA sent MeDicines to over 120 nAtions gets disintegrated by differential heating in the range of 560 India, which is regarded as the “Pharmacy of World”, to 600 Celsius temperatures. has sent Hydroxychloroquine medicines to over 120 countries on their request to counter Covid 19 pandemic. MobiLe DisinFection sPrAyer DeveLoPeD to COMBAT COVID-19 6.39% COVID-19 CASE NEEDS HOSPITAL & Scientists at CSIR-Central Mechanical Engineering recovery rAte noW At 42% Research Institute (CMERI), Durgapur, have developed two In India the Corona recovery rate was 42% as on 25 mobile indoor Disinfection Sprayer units. These Sprayers May. Nearly 42 per cent of the total Covid patients were can also be used to clean and disinfect frequently touched cured as per Health Ministry data. As per data, only which surfaces such as tables, doorknobs, light switches, 6.9 per cent require oxygen, ventilator support in India. countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, Globally, 62 people per 100,000 are infected and In India, faucets, sinks, and cardboards. the figure is much lower at 7.9. “COVID KAVACH ELISA” TEST FOR COVID-19 ‘LOCKDOWN REDUCED INTENSITY OF COVID-19 Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)-National sPreAD by More tHAn 60%’ Institute of Virology (NIV) at Pune has developed and The lockdown has been largely successful in containing validated the indigenous IgG ELISA test “COVID KAVACH the intensity of the corona spread in India, shows a study ELISA” for antibody detection for COVID-19. The robust by the University of Michigan in the United States. By the indigenous IgG ELISA test for antibody detection developed end of Lockdown 1.0, i.e. April 14, it came down to 1.71. by ICMR-NIV will play a critical role in surveillance On May 3, when Lockdown 2.0 ended, it reduced to 1.46, of proportion of population exposed to SARS-CoV-2 and on May 16, it further dipped to 1.27. This means the Coronavirus infection. lockdown brought down the reproductive rate of the virus by almost three times. over 50 LAKH MiGrAnts FerrieD in 3,736 ‘sHrAMiK sPeciAL’ trAins Air Force Gives AeriAL sALUte to coronA More than 50 lakh stranded migrant labourers have WArriors reached their home states in 3,736 ‘Shramik Special’ trains Indian Air Force did a fly past in various parts of the in the last 29 days as on 29 May, 2020. In a constant country including Delhi and NCR to pay salute to those endeavour to provide relief to migrants to reach home State, Corona Warriors who are at the forefront, bravely fighting Ministry of Railways has also decided to operationalize 2600 COVID-19 on 03 May, 2020. PM Shri Narendra Modi hailed more ‘Shramik Special’ Trains till first week of June and it the mega exercise. is expected to benefit 36 lakh more stranded passengers across the country.

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 29 aaTmanirbhar bharaT abhiyan TOWARDS A SELF-RELIANT INDIA

30 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 PM’s rs. 20 LAKH crore PAcKAGe Aatmanirbhar bharat Abhiyan

• Announcement of special Economic and covered by EPFO Comprehensive Package of Rs. 20 lakh • Rs. 30,000 crore special liquidity scheme for Crore: Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi NBFCs / HFCs / MFIs announced a special economic and comprehensive • Partial Credit Guarantee Scheme 2.0 for the package of Rs. 20 lakh crore equal to 10% of India’s liabilities of NBFCs / MFIs at Rs 45,000 crore GDP on 12 May 2020. He gave a clear call for a Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. Along with this, he • Rs. 90,000 crore liquidity to be made available for also outlined the five pillars of Atmanirbhar Bharat discoms such as economy, infrastructure, technology driven • Relief was given to contractors by extending system and demand. the time up to six months to fulfill contractual massive relief to msmEs: obligations, including the obligations associated with EPC and concession agreements. • Rs. 3 lakh crore emergency working capital facility for businesses including MSMEs • Relief to real estate projects, registration for all registered projects and completion date will be • Loan of Rs. 20,000 crore for debt ridden MSMEs extended by six months • Equity of Rs 50,000 crore will be made accessible • Tax relief for business, pending income tax refunds through ‘MSME Fund of Funds’ to charitable trusts and non-corporate businesses • New definition of MSME and other measures for and businesses will be issued immediately MSME • 25% reduction in ‘tax at source’ and ‘tax collected • No global tender at source’ rates for the in government remaining period of FY tenders up to Rs 2020-21 200 crore • Union Finance • Employee Minister announces Provident Fund short-term and long- support for term measures for professional and migrants, farmers, organized workers small traders and for the pay months street vendors on 13 of June, July and May 2020 August 2020 • Free food increased by 3 grains to migrants months. for two months: One • EPF contribution Nation One Ration will be reduced Card. Using the from 12% to 10% technology system, for next 3 months it will be ensured that for employers and migrant workers can employees of all get ration (PDS) from establishments

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 31 any fair price shop across the country by March provide marketing options to farmers 2021 - One Nation One Ration Card infrastructure reforms in eight sectors: • Scheme for affordable rent housing complexes for • Commencing of commercial mining in coal sector, migrant workers and urban poor to be launched diversified opportunities, liberal system, increasing • Interest subsidy of 2 percent for 12 months for the private investment in mineral sector and policy borrowers under ‘Shishu Mudra’ reforms • Rs 5000 crore loan facility for street vendors • Increasing self-sufficiency in defense production • Rs 70,000 crore incentive to housing sector and Policy reforms in defense production middle income group through expansion of loan • 40,000 crore increase in allocation for MNREGA to linked subsidy scheme for MIG under PMAY boost employment (urban) • The borrowing limit of the states was increased • 6,000 crores for employment generation using from 3% to 5% only for the year 2020-21 and CAMPA fund promoted state level reforms • Additional emergency working capital of Rs 30,000 • Increasing investment in public health as well as crore for farmers through NABARD other health-related reforms to prepare India for • Promotion of concessional loan of Rs 2 lakh crore future epidemics. to 2.5 crore farmers under Kisan Credit Card • Defaults relating to Companies Act were removed Scheme. from the category of crime key measures for strengthening • Ease of doing business for companies agricultural infrastructure logistics, • Public sector enterprise policy for a new, capacity building, governance and Atmanirbhar Bharat administrative reforms for agriculture, fisheries and food processing sectors: • Agricultural infrastructure fund of Rs 1 lakh crore for farm-gate infrastructure for farmers • Rs 10,000 crore scheme to formalize micro food enterprises (MFE) • 20,000 crore for fishermen through Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) • Creating Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund - Rs 15,000 crore • Measures for governance and administrative reforms for the agricultural sector • Amendment in Essential Commodities Act to provide better prices to farmers • Agricultural marketing reforms to

32 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 PRADHAn mAntRi gARib kAlYAn YOJAnA

Relief package of Rs 1.70 lakh crore announced on 26 march 2020 • Every health worker fighting Covid-19 will be provided an insurance cover of Rs 50 lakh under the insurance scheme. • 80 crore poor will get 5 kg wheat or rice and 1 kg pulses of choice every month for free for the next three months. • 20 crore women Jan Dhan account holders will get Rs 500 every month for the next three months • Under MGNREGA wages have been increased from Rs 182 to Rs 202 per day, 13.62 crore families will be benefited • 3 crore poor senior citizens, poor widows and poor persons with disabilities will be given a amount of Rs 1,000 • Under the current ‘PM Kisan Yojana’, the government will pay Rs 2,000 to the farmers’ account in the first week of April, benefiting 8.7 crore farmers. • The Central Government has ordered the State Governments to use the ‘Building and Construction Workers Welfare Fund’ to give relief to construction workers.

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 33 MODI GOVERNMENT: 2014 - 2019 imPorTanT achievemenTs of modi governmenT 1.0

34 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 MiDDLe cLAss : tHe bAcKbone oF tHe society Allowance becomes 25 percent. This is a new initiative. • Increase in income tax exemption limit– Giving the • Government contribution enhanced in National biggest relief to the middle class, the limit for income Pension Scheme - In NPS, the Government has tax exemption has been increased from 2.5 lakh to 5 increased its contribution from 10 April, 2014 to 14 lakh rupees for the first time. percent. Employee’s contribution will remain only • GST: One Nation, One Tax- With the introduction of GST, 10 percent. This will accumulate more money in the people got freedom from the web of various kinds of employees’ pension fund. taxes and thousands of tolls have been closed down. • Minimum Pension- The government has increased the This has made business easier. minimum pension from Rs. 3,500 to 9000 rupees per • Low inflation rate - Retail inflation was recorded 2.05% month, which has benefited lakhs of pensioners. in January 2019, which is the lowest in the last 19 • Gratuity- Gratuity limit has been increased from 10 lakh months. to 20 lakh rupees. This initiative will benefit employees • Reduction in prices of Heart Stent - Heart Stents are with more money at the time of retirement, which will now 85% cheaper saving 46,000 crores patients. Apart make their future happier. from this, 69% reduction in the cost of knee implants • Pension discrepancies related to retired employees has saved Rs.1500 crores of public. removed - Pension is being given to the employees who • Affordable and quality medicines through Jan Aushadi retired before January 01, 2016, with new pay scale. Kendra- More than 5,000 Jan Aushadi Kendra has With this, the discrepancies arose for the employees been opened to provide cheap and quality medicines retired before or after this date is now removed. across the country. More than 800 medicines are • Incentives for housing loan- The limit of interest on loan available at these centers at very low prices. taken for the house have been increased from Rs 1.5 • Air travel becomes cheaper - Air travel has become lakh to Rs. 2 lakh under income tax. While under the cheaper under the Udaan Scheme. Tickets are now Section 80 of income tax housing loan limit increased available for Rs 2,500 for many domestic destinations. from one lakh to 1.5 lakhs. • Approval of loans under Mudra scheme - In this • Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandan Yojana- Under this scheme more than 16 crore poor and middle class scheme, an initiative has been taken to save the people have been sanctioned loans of more than Rs. deposited capital of senior citizens from the decline 7 lakh 74 thousand crore. in interest rate, under which the rate of interest of 8 • 7th Pay Commission- The recommendations of the per cent for 10 years has been ensured to them. The 7th Pay Commission have been implemented from government will bear the difference if interest rate falls 01 January 2016 under which the minimum basic from 8 percent. By 28 January, 2019 around 3 lakh 43 salary has been increased from Rs. 7 thousand to thousand 295 beneficiaries invested Rs. 21 thousand 18 thousand rupees. This will benefit about 35 lakh 757 crores in this scheme. government servants. • Senior Citizen Welfare Fund - The Senior Citizen • House Rent Welfare Fund has Allowance (HRA) been set up by and Transport the government Allowance (TA) under which, the - In the 7th Pay unclaimed amount Commission, for more than House Rent 10 years of life Allowance insurance will be and Transport transferred to the Allowance has Senior Citizens been increased. Welfare Fund. Under House Rent this scheme Rs. 81 Allowance has crores 63 lacs have been fixed at 24 been transferred percent of basic to this fund up to salary, which March 31, 2018, will increase which will be used to 27 percent for the welfare of when Dearness senior citizens.

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 35 • Life certificates now online too - Senior citizens have agriculture sector- Prioritizing the development of the to give a life certificate every year to continue their agricultural sector, ensuring that farmers get fair value pension, delay in this resulted many difficulties for of their crop and adequate compensation is paid for them. With the new government initiative, now this life the crop failure, in the last five years, Rs. 2 lakh 11 certificate can be made at any branch or online. From thousand 694 crore has been allocated, which is the November 01, 2018 to December 31, 2018, more highest ever so far. than 11 lakh pensioners have filed their life certificates • Budget allocation increased by 16.21% for Pradhan online under this initiative. MantriKrishiSinchayiYojana - Under this scheme, budget amounting to Rs. 5 thousand 460 crores has ProsPeroUs FArMer, ProsPeroUs nAtion been allocated to provide water to every farm through • MSP increased one and half times of the cost of ‘per drop more crop’ which is the highest ever so far. production- For the first time, MSP of Rabi and Kharif • More protection against natural calamity- Earlier crops are declared one and a half times of the cost of farmers used to get money in case where 50% of the production due to they are getting good value of their crop got damage due to natural calamity but now it crop. is being provided even • Farmers honoured after loss of 33% of by Prime Minister the crop. Due to this, - For the first time the total relief amount financial assistance given to farmers has under the Pradhan increased 6 times. Mantri Kisan • Distribution of Samman Nidhi 18 crore 41 lakh Soil Yojana has been Health Card - Soil provided to the Health Card scheme farming families has been started to holding land less check the soil health. than 5 acres. An Due to this soil check, annual support farmers are getting the of Rs. 6,000 will right advice to get more be deposited in production. their bank account • Annual milk directly. production has • Direct sale of crops increased by 49% through E-Nam increase- Due to the platform- Farmers steps taken by the can sell their product government for dairy in the market where farmers, the annual the highest prices rate of milk production are available and has increased by about not to be forced to 49% in last five years. sell their crops cheaply, 585 Mandis are connected • Significant increase in the purchase of Pulses and with E-Nam platform. Farmers are now selling their Oilseeds - 78 lakh 61 thousand metric tons of pulse- crops at the highest price. oilseeds have been procured in five years of BJP • Neem coated urea - Neem coating of 100% urea has government, which has been the highest purchase till been done to prevent black marketing of urea and date. make it available for the farmers, due to which the • Fish Production has increased by 42.22%- A total of farmers are able to get urea on time and in sufficient 42.22% increase in fish production has been reported quantity without any problem. 4. Neem coated urea - during last financial year. In this direction, India’s Neem coating of 100% urea has been done to prevent export capacity has also increased by 180%. black marketing of urea and make it available for the • Kisan Credit Card offered to the fishermen, dairy farmers, due to which the farmers are able to get urea farmers and cattle breeders -Kisan Credit Card was on time and in sufficient quantity without any problem. previously offered to farmers only but the ambit of the • Allocated highest amount in the budget to develop the scheme has been raised and now being offered to

36 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 dairy farmers, fishermen and cattle breeders too. into the bank account of workers in every 15 days. • Approval to Cut Bamboo - With the amendment in • Wages through electronic payment and cheque- the Indian Forest Act, 2017, the bamboo has now Providing social security to the workers, payment been removed from the tree category and has been of their wages is paid through cheque or electronic put into the category of grass, resulting in facilitating means. the farmers to cut bamboo and move from place to • DattopantThengadi National Worker Education place freely. There is no need to take permission. This and Development Board - This board organizes has changed the fate of the farmers of the Northeast training programmes for organized, unorganized and and farmers of other states have also go an additional MNREGA workers. source of income. UPLiFtMent oF scHeDULeD cAstes AnD sHrAMiK: sHrAMev JAyAte scHeDULeD tribes • Pension scheme for the workers in unorganized • Budgetary provision for the welfare of Scheduled sector- A historic ‘Pradhan MantriShram Yogi Maan- Castes and Scheduled Tribes communities- Budgetary DhanYojana’ has provision of Rs. 95 thousand crore has been made for been announced for the welfare of Scheduled the people working Castes and Scheduled in unorganized Tribes, which is the sector, who are self- highest ever so far. employed. Through • PanchatirthaYojana- this scheme, these Offering a unique workers will receive a tribute to the architect pension of Rs.3000 of our Constitution per month after Dr. Ambedkar, the completion of 60 Modi government years of age. If the has marked five sites beneficiary dies while related to Dr. Ambedkar receiving pension, as Panchatirtha and then 50 percent of redevelopment of these the pension received sites has been started. by him will be given • STAND UP as pension to the SCHEME- To set up the beneficiary’s life industry, Stand-Up plan partner. has been started for the • Increase in minimum Scheduled Caste and wages – Modi Scheduled Tribe youths, Government has so that youth of these increased the communities can stand minimum wage of on their feet. Under this workers by 40 percent, which is the highest ever so far. scheme, people belonging to Scheduled Castes and • Increase in bonus limit of workers - The annual bonus Scheduled Tribes getting a loan of Rs. 10 lakh to Rs. for workers has been doubled, from Rs. 3500 to Rs. 1 crore for self-employment. Every branch of each 7000, which is the highest ever so far. bank of the country has been instructed to give this • Determination of minimum pension- Earlier, 50 or 100 loan to at least one person of a Scheduled Caste and rupees were also paid to the workers as pension. It Scheduled Tribe community inevitably. has been decided by the Modi Government that • Increase in income limit for scholarship - The annual no employee will get pension less than Rs. 1000. income limit of parents for scholarship has been Therefore, everyone has been ensured pension of at increased to two and a half lakh rupees for eligible least Rs.1000 /- per month. students of Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe • Increase in the budgetary allocation of MNREGA- In communities. the year 2018-19, the Modi government has increased • Number of students receiving scholarships increased- the amount of MNREGA to 55 thousand crores and the During the last 5 years, 5 crore 7 lakh SC / ST students government now puts the amount of wages directly got the benefit of scholarships of around Rs. 15,918

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 37 crore. • Pradhan MantriAdarsh Gram Yojana- Under this, a • Establishment of cultural centers in tribal areas: Cultural sum of Rs. 530 crore 35 lakhs has been sanctioned centers are being set up by the BJP government in for the development of identified 2,500 villages which different tribal areas for the promotion of their culture, have more than 50 percent population of scheduled arts and dialects and to protect the heritage of the caste community. tribes. • National Overseas Scholarship Scheme for Foreign • Honorary amount for inter-caste marriages- In order to Studies - The number of students to be selected promote inter-caste marriage, it has been announced annually has been increased from 60 to 100. During to give an amount of Rs. 2.5 lakh rupees for marriage the tenure of Modi government, Rs. 398.77 lakhs in scheduled caste community. Until now under this have been sanctioned under the National Overseas plan, an amount of Rs. 219. 4 crore has been provided Scholarship Scheme for 484 students of SC / ST to 71,387 married couples. community. • Strong SC and ST (Prevention of Atrocities Act) - Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention WeLFAre oF otHer bAcKWArD cLAsses of Atrocities Act) has been made even stronger • Constitutional status to National Backward Classes by amending the Commission (NCBC)— Constitution. National Backward • Establishment of Classes Commission has special courts - been given constitutional Special courts have status by amending been set up for the Constitution for the speedy trial of cases empowerment of people of atrocities against belonging to Other members of SC / ST Backward Classes. communities. The commission will • Business Capital no longer act as a Scheme for consultant, but will be Scheduled Castes active partner in all the - Business Capital schemes. Scheme has been • Income limit started to provide increased for creamy loan of Rs. 50 lakhs layer - People with to 15 crore rupees to income above Rs. 6 promote Scheduled lakh were not eligible Caste entrepreneurs. for facilities given to Under this scheme, backward classes. Now the interest rate has people earning up to been reduced from 10 Rs. 8 lakhs will also be percent to 8 percent eligible for the facilities and loan of 322 crores 8 lakhs has been sanctioned. given to backward classes. • Establishment of Ekalavya Model Schools- 288 • Skill Development Scheme- Under this scheme, for the Ekalavya model schools have been sanctioned under skill development of 62,874 persons belonging to the this scheme and in the last five years, 2751 crores backward classes in the tenure of Modi Government, have been given to the State Governments. a sum of Rs. 69 crores 79 lakhs has been spent. Out • Skills Development Scheme - Under this scheme, of the trained persons, 31,822 persons have been funds of Rs.102 crores 54 lakhs have been spent for given employment. providing training to the Scheduled Castes for skill • Hostel scheme for Backward Classes - Under this development. So far, 1,07,246 persons of Scheduled scheme, 86 hostels have been sanctioned for students Castes and SafaiKaramcharis have got the benefit. across the country, with the capacity of 9,069 seats, • Development of basic infrastructure for sports - at the cost of Rs. 153 crores during the tenure of the Under this, 163 districts of the country in which tribal Modi government. population is more have been selected for developing • Benefits of various scholarships to Backward Classes basic infrastructure related to sports. students - Benefits are being provided to the Backward

38 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 Classes students under various scholarship schemes. use their capabilities : So far, Rs. 3,797 crores 2 lacs scholarship has been • Sanctioned loans for more than 16 crores people approved for 2 crores 64 lakh students. for self-employment– Different institutions have sanctioned Rs. 7 lakh 74 thousand crore to 16 crore MODI GOVERNMENT DEDICATED TO ARMY AND EX- people under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana for serviceMen self-employment. • INDEBTED NATION SALUTES THE MARTYRS - • Start-up scheme for self-employment- 15,649 Start- Showing gratitude towards the martyrs, ‘National ups have been recognized by the government for self- War Memorial’ has been built in the country. This is a employment. All these Start-ups will be given tax relief symbol of Bhavanjali given by the nation towards the for 3 consecutive years in a 7 year block period. martyrs who were neglected into the oblivion. • Established Prime Minister Skill Development Centers • ‘ONE RANK-ONE PENSION’ DEMAND FULFILLED – (PMKVY)- Prime Minister Skill Development Centers The decades old demand of ‘One Rank-One Pension’ have been opened in every district of the country has been fulfilled by the government to uphold the to train youth in 375 trades. Youth are starting their pride of our solders. employment by getting • MORE THAN RS.3 training from these LAKH CRORE centers and taking loans DEFENCE BUDGET under the Mudra Yojana. -In the year 2019, • Established the government has institutes like AIIMS, IIT, decided to make IIM and NIT across the a defence budget country- 14 new AIIMS, of more than Rs. 3 14 new IIIT, 7 new IITs, 7 lakh crore for the first new IIMs, 1 new NIT, 103 time, which was the new KendriyaVidyalayas highest ever so far. and 62 new Navodaya • FULFILLED THE Schools have been set DEMAND OF up so far to provide BULLET PROOF our young brains a JACKETS - The world-class educational demand of bullet institutions, so that proof jackets made they can secure their by the army in the employment in good year 2009 has been institutions. fulfilled now. The • Prime Minister’s purchase of 1 lakh 86 Research Fellowship for thousand bullet proof talented young students jackets has been - Under this scheme, approved. an annual scholarship of Rs. 70,000-80,000 per • APPROVAL OF PROCUREMENT OF STATE-OF- month and additional grant of Rs. 2 lakh for research THE-ART WEAPONS- The purchase of Rafale aircrat is granted to the young students for the period of 5 state-of-the-art weapons for the army has also been years. approved. • Khelo India - This program is designed to promote • INCREASE IN INDIGENOUS CAPACITY IN WEAPON sports culture at grass root level in India. Under this, PRODUCTION -So far, India was dependent on efforts are being made to provide a comprehensive weapons imported from abroad. Now we are moving and robust system to the young players. It will help forward with the ability of weapon manufacturing in them to perfume better on the world stage and our own country. establish a new identity of Indian players. • Approval of the Atal Tinkering Labs - In order to provide yoUtH : oUr FUtUre innovative skills to more than 60 lakh students, 5,441 We are fortunate that our 65 percent of population is under Atal Tinkering Labs has been approved in various 35 years of age. That youth power is our energy. Here’s schools. a glimpse of the plans made by the Modi Government to • Financial Assistance to Talented Players - Under this

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 39 scheme, financial assistance of Rs. 5 lakh per annum so that they can take care of their newborn well. 1 has been provided to talented players for 8 years. lakh 678 crore rupees have been paid to 49 lakh 88 thousand women for maternity benefits. WoMen eMPoWerMent • Free gas connections for the poor women - LPG From the unborn daughters to the old age of women, connections have been distributed to 6 crore 26 lakh Prime Minster Narendra Modi has made several plans women for easing the lives of poor women and getting for their welfare. Here’s a glimpse of those welfare rid of smoke under Pradhan MantriUjjwalaYojana. programmes: • Loan facility for self-employment- With the objective • ‘BetiBachao, BetiPadaoAbhiyan’ - Female feticide is of encouraging women workers, arrangements have a curse for us. The social equilibrium is deteriorating been made to provide loans under the Mudra Yojana. due to the abortion of a daughter in the womb. Prime So far, 16.5 crore loans have been sanctioned under Minister Narendra Modi launched ‘BetiBachao, this scheme out of which 72.25 percent of the loans BetiPadaoAbhiyan’ to end this imbalance. This is not amount is being received by the women entrepreneurs. a government program • Ration card in but a social campaign. the name of women As a result, there has - In a historical been a lot of increase decision, it has been in the birth rate of girls decided that after in 104 districts. The considering the example of is woman as the head very pleasant, earlier of the family, the where 883 girls were ration card will be born compared to made in her name. 1,000 boys, now this • Relief in Stamp number has increased Duty - If the property to 914. is registered in the • Sukanya Samrudhi name of a woman, Yojana - This scheme then one percent has been initiated discount will be to take care from given in stamp duty. education to marriage • Stand-up of the girl child. Under Scheme- A loan this 1 crore 30 lakh of Rs. 10 lakh to accounts have been 1 crore rupees is opened. given to women self- • Free education and employment under hostel in Kasturba this scheme. Every Gandhi Balika branch of every Vidyalaya- Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya providing bank of the country has been instructed to give loan to free education and hostel facility until class 12 to the at least one woman inevitably. daughters of poor families. • Reservation for Women Entrepreneurs in Increased • Pregnant Women Care - Under the Pradhan Mantri Purchase - 3% of the total procurement raised by the Surakshit Matritv Yojana, more than 86 lakh 88 government companies in MSME has been reserved thousand pregnant women have been protected, with for women entrepreneurs. more than 70 lakh post pregnant check-ups on 13,161 • Scholarship to minority students - In the last four and health centers. a half years, about 3 crore 83 lakh students of minority • Financial Assistance to Pregnant Women- Under the communities have been awarded with scholarships. In Pradhan Mantri Matri Vandana Yojana, provision of this 60 percent recipients were the girl child. financial assistance of Rs. 6000 during a year to more • Now women pilot inducted as fighter pilot in Indian than 50 lakh pregnant women has been made. Air Force- Women are also included in the Indian Air • Increase in duration of maternity leave for women Force for the first time as fighter pilots. workers - Duration of maternity leave has been • 1.5 times increase in salary of Anganwadi workers increased for female workers to 26 weeks (6 months) -Honourarium of 27 lakh Anganwadi workers and

40 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 assistants have been increased by 1.5 times in the lakh 40 thousand Divyanjan have received a benefit country. Following this increase, now the honorarium of 737 crores 51 lakhs. During this period 6 Guinness given to Anganwadi workers is as follows: Book of World Records have been established. • Death sentence to person convicted of rape of a • Cochlear Implant Operation - A grant of Rs. 6 lakhs is girl under the age of 12 years - A new law has been given to each Divyanjan for the operation under this introduced to give death penalty to the person scheme. 186 hospitals have been paneled for cochlear convicted for rape of a girl below the age of 12 years implant operation. So far, 1,706 ADIP cochlear implant and rape with a teenager below 16 years of age, the operations have been done due to which many deaf minimum sentence for the convict has been increased Divyanjan got the ability to listen. from 10 years to 20 years. • Pre-matric and post-matric Scholarship - Under this • Empowerment of Muslim women against Triple Talaq- scheme, an amount of Rs. 17 crore 39 lakhs has A bill that empowers been released in the Muslim women last five years, which against Triple Talaq has benefited 24,545 has been passed in students. In addition to the Lok Sabha. Apart this, amount of rupees from this, Muslim 60 crores 62 lakhs women have also has been released for been allowed to go to scholarship after class Haj without the male 11 and matriculation, guardian. which has benefited • Passport rules 31,448 students. amended for the • National Action divorced women- Plan for the skill This amendment development of enable the women to Divyanjan - Under discard the name of this, 266 organizations their ex-husband’s, have been listed as which has given them training participants. much needed relief An amount of Rs. from mental torture. 174 crore 48 lakhs has been released DivyAnG : oUr for the training of 1 sPeciAL citiZens lakh 58 thousand 468 While expressing his Divyanjan from the compassion, Prime year 2014-15. Minister Narendra Modi has honoured those persons • Divyangta Sports Center - Divyangta Sports Center in who are facing disability of any one part of the body by Gwalior has been set-up at a cost of Rs 170 crores. naming them as Divyang: • Establishment of Indian Sign Language Research • Increase in the type of disability for the welfare of Center- Indian Sign Language Research and Training Divyanjan- Under Divyangjan Rights Act, 2016, 21 Center (ISLRTC) have been set up to increase the types of disabilities has been recognized instead of 7 capacity of deaf and dumb people. types earlier. • Construction of ramps and railing and special toilets • Increase in reservation in government jobs for for the Divyang students - 54,000 ramps and railing Divyanjan- Reservations for government jobs for the and 50,000 special toilets have been constructed for welfare of Divyanjans have been increased from 3 the convenience of the Divyang students across the percent to 4 percent. country. • Increase in Reservation for Divyangjan in Colleges • Visually impaired friendly coins issued - The Modi and Vocational Institutions - Increased reservation in government has released a new series of coins the colleges and vocational institutions for Divyangjan favorable to the visually impaired people. These new has been increased from 3% to 5%. coins will be helpful for visually impaired people, and • ADIP- More than 7,800 camps were organized will enhance their confidence. throughout the country under this scheme, in which 12 • Issue of Unique Identity Card to Divyanjan- Each

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 41 Divyanjan has been issued a unique identity card to them to sale their product in the national-international create a national database of Divyanjan. The facility of markets. this card has been given to take advantage of all the • Under the NAYI ROSHNI Yojana, a large number of welfare schemes given to Divyanjan. So far, 13 lakh minority community women are being given various 23 thousand such special identity cards have been Skill Trainings, due to which they are moving ahead on issued in 500 districts of the country at the expenditure the path of progress. of 15 crores. • Decrease in school dropout rate among girls- The efforts made by the Modi government is now showing Minority : noW in MAinstreAM result. The dropout rate of minority, especially Muslim All the facilities given to the poor are also being given girls, which was 70-72 percent earlier, has now come to the poor of the minority community. In addition, the down to 35 percent. We are committed to bring it down following schemes have been implemented only for the to zero percent. minorities : • Scholarship to students- In the last 4 years, about 2 • Skill development and employment opportunities were crore 95 lakh students of poor and weaker sections provided to about 7 lakh 50 thousand youth through of minority community have benefited from various the employment and skill development schemes like scholarship schemes, which include almost 60 Learn and Earn, USTAD, NAYI MANZIL, GARIB NAWAZ percent of girl students. KAUSHAL VIKAS Yojana etc. This includes about 50 • National Scholarship Portal- All scholarships are being percent of the girls. sent directly to the bank accounts of the students • Through the HUNAR HAAT, not only the employment through ‘Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)’ through the opportunities provided to the artisans/ craftsmen of National Scholarship Portal. around 2 lakh people of minority communities in the • Training for Madrasa teachers- In the year 2018, last two years, but also provided opportunities to training program has been started for connecting

सौगंध मुझे इस मम絍絀 क絀, मℂ देश नहĂ ममटने दूंगा, मℂ देश नहĂ 셁कने दूंगा, मℂ देश नहĂ झुकने दूंगा।

42 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 Madrasa teachers with mainstream education system. twice in a year. • Digitalization of Waqf properties - Under this scheme • Reservation for Women Entrepreneurs in Increased of Modi Government, 90% of Waqf properties have Purchase - 3% of the total procurement raised by the been digitalized. government companies from MSME is now being • Empowerment of Muslim women against Triple Talaq reserved for women entrepreneurs. - The bill terming Triple Talaq as an offense has been • Membership of ‘GeM’ for central companies is passed in the Lok Sabha. mandatory- It has been mandatory for all Central • Muslim women are allowed to go for Haj without male Government companies to subscribe to ‘GeM’. These guardian – Now Muslim women can go without any companies will also register their vendor MSME on male guardian to Haj. this platform, and it will be compulsory to purchase • Increase in Haj quota - In 2014, Haj quota allowed 25% of their requirement from small enterprises. only one lakh 36 thousand people to go for Haj, which • Simplifying the redressal process - Under this, has increased in Modi government’s tenure. Now entrepreneurs associated with MSME will not have to it has increased to two lakh Hajis. For the first time go to court to rectify the minor mistakes. Inadvertently since Independence in the year 2019, two lakh Indian minor violations can be rectified through few Muslims will go for Haj without ‘subsidy’. simple procedures by approaching the concerned • Expansion of development schemes through ‘Prime department. Minister Jan Vikas Program’ - Under this scheme, • Decision to create cluster for Pharma companies- It during the last four and half years, 28-degree colleges, has been decided to build clusters for Ease of Doing 2197 school buildings, 40,201 additional classrooms, Business of MSME sector’s pharmacy companies. 1213 hostels, 191 ITIs, 50 Polytechnic, 39586 70% of the cost in establishing these clusters will be Anganwadi centers, 3,48,624 Homes, 405 goodwill borne by Government of India. pavilion, 89 residential schools, 527 market shades, 17,397 drinking water facilities were constructed in the minority areas by the Modi government. sMALL entrePreneUrs : torcHbeArers oF sWADesHi Small entrepreneurs generate majority of the jobs. Understanding their importance on Deepavali, the Prime Minister has given some benefits to these small entrepreneurs: • Loan approval in 59 minutes for MSME sector- Loan amount uptoRs. 1 crore for MSME Sector is now sanctioned in one minute less than an hour. • Increased GST exemption limit for small entrepreneurs – Giving relief to the small entrepreneurs, the limit of exemption on GST has been increased from Rs 20 lakhs to Rs 40 lakhs. • Establishment of ‘Hub and Spoke’ for technological upgradation - ‘Hub and Spoke’ has been set up for technical assistance to MSME, under which 20 centers (hubs) and 100 tool rooms (SPOKES) will be set across the country. • Facilitates to file returns only once in a year- Under this government has simplified laws in the MSME sector and now under 8 Labour laws and 10 central rules, option has been given to file the return only once instead of

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 43 GLobAL APPreciAtions For MoDi GovernMent 2.0

44 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 WorLD bAnK PrAises PM MoDi’s AAtMAnirbHAr said, “The commitment from the Indian government bHArAt Mission and the Prime Minister’s Office has been tremendous, The World Bank praised Prime Minister Shri Narendra very impressive. It is one of the reasons why India is still Modi’s Aatmanirbhar Mission and approved $1 billion doing quite well. I am very impressed that everyone has social protection package to India amid the Coronavirus been prepared.” pandemic that has affected people and its economy. World Bank’s India director said, “I think PM’s Atmanirbhar Us LAUDs iAF For evAcUAtinG 58 inDiAns FroM Mission is very important in terms of directions and India irAn is not making a distinction between life and livelihoods The United States government praised the Indian in the aftermath of Covid-19”. Air Force for successfully evacuating Indians from Coronavirus-hit Iran. MICROSOFT CO-FOUNDER BILL GATES PRAISES PM MoDi PM MoDi conFerreD ‘GoALKeePer AWArD’ For Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates praised Prime sWAcHH bHArAt AbHiyAn Minister Shri Narendra Modi and gave a thumbs-up Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred the “Global to the government’s efforts to flatten the curve of the Goalkeeper” award by the Bill and Melinda Gates Coronavirus pandemic. Foundation at the fourth annual Global Goals Awards on September 24, 2019 for his leadership in India’s massive WHo PrAises MoDi Govt’s eFForts in HoLDinG Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. tHe sPreAD oF coronAvirUs The World Health Organisation (WHO) lauded Prime MoDi Govt MAKinG FAntAstic eFForts For Minister Shri Narendra Modi government’s efforts in cLiMAte Action: Un holding the spread of Coronavirus. UN chief Antonio Guterres appreciated that India is making a fantastic efforts in renewable energy “India inDiA’s coMMitMents very iMPressive: WHo is an important actor and “fundamental partner” in Henk Bekedam, the representative of WHO to India international efforts on climate action and is making a “fantastic effort” to grow its renewable energy basket”, SucceSS of UN chief Antonio Guterres has ‘’ said. isLAMic nAtions offerS hope HonoUreD PM MoDi WitH for Developing HiGHest civiLiAn AWArD Several Islamic nations nationS honoured PM Modi with their high civilian award.Here is the list: • The success of ‘Digital India’ offers new hope for 1. The King Hamad Order of the poor and developing countries, Secretary-General of Renaissance, Bahrain - August the Commonwealth, Patricia Scotland, has said on 25 2019 May, 2020. 2. Order of Zayed, UAE’s highest civilian awards August • “... the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth 2019 3. Grand Collar of the State of has expressed her appreciation for this initiative Palestine - February 2018 and has called it as a new hope for other developing 4. Amir Amanullah Khan Award, and aspiring countries of the Commonwealth,” the Afghanistan - June 2016 statement added. 5. King Abdulaziz Sash Award, Saudi Arabia - April 2016

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 45 6. Rule of Nishan Izzuddeen, Maldives - June 2019 WorLD bAnK HAiLs inDiA’s rUrAL roAD scHeMe A World Bank report has hailed India’s rural road internAtionAL enerGy AGency PrAiseD scheme PMGSY, saying it has improved mobility, UJJWALA scHeMe For ProviDinG Free cooKinG increased access to economic opportunities and GAs connection to Poor boosted attendance of children in schools. It also claims • Launched by PM Shri Narendra Modi on 1 May, the number of babies delivered at home has come down 2016, in Ballia, Uttar Pradesh, Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala substantially in areas connected through rural roads, a Yojana (PMUY) aims to safeguard the health of major improvement in the health sector. women and children by providing free cooking gas The report said PMGSY has changed the face of rural (LPG) connection to poor families. India along with schemes for housing, cooking gas and • Ujjwala is not just an energy achievement but also National Rural Livelihood Mission. social and economic achievement, IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol said. ‘PriMe Minister nArenDrA MoDi is ALMost A • Last year, the World Health Organisation (WHO) had sUPerHUMAn’, sAys AUstrALiAn envoy to inDiA also hailed the scheme. Australian envoy to India Barry O’Farrell praised Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for his commitment towards PM MODI IS 2019’S MOST ADMIRED MAN IN INDIA: the fight against the coronavirus pandemic. UK-based survey agency ‘YouGov’ Prime Minister During an interview with DD India, Barry O’Farrell said, Narendra Modi is the most admired man in India and “Prime Minister Narendra Modi is almost a superhuman.” sixth most admired in the world, according to a survey “In addition to managing a pandemic in the world’s conducted by UK-based agency ‘YouGov’. second-largest country, he also finds time every day to reach out to world leaders,” he said on 4 May, 2020.

‘PriMe Minister nArenDrA MoDi is ALMost A sUPerHUMAn’, sAys AUstrALiAn envoy to inDiA

46 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 RuSSia awaRdS ShRi NaReNdRa Modi itS higheSt oRdeR

KiNg SalMaN pReSeNtS citatioN to pM NaReNdRa Modi afteR coNfeRRiNg oN the iNdiaN pRiMe MiNiSteR Saudi aRabia’S higheSt civiliaN awaRd

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 47 india’s rePuTaTion on inTernaTional forums enhanced

• shanghai Cooperation Organization summit, from 17-18 August 2019 at the invitation of Dr. Lotte bishkek (kyrgyzstan): 14 June 2019: Prime Minister Tshering, Prime Minister of Bhutan. Shri Narendra Modi outlined the SCO’s spirit and its ideas • Prime minister’s visit to three countries and g-7 to strengthen cooperation in the fight against terrorism. He summit: Prime Minister’s successful visit to France, said that India advocates a terrorism-free society. UAE and Bahrain: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi • Prime minister visits to maldives: Six agreements visited France, UAE and Bahrain from 22 to 26 August. signed between India and Maldives: First Memorandum He attended the G-7 summit on 25 and 26 August in the of Understanding (MoU) was signed for cooperation in the French city of Biarritz. Shri Modi was awarded the ‘Order of field of Hydrology (Water Science). The second agreement Zayed’ in the United Arab Emirates and ‘The King Hamad was in the field of health. Other agreements were signed Order of the Renaissance’ in Bahrain. to establish passenger and cargo services via sea route, • Visit to France: Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, cooperation between the Central Board of Indirect Taxes visited Paris on 22 and 23 August for the bilateral summit and Customs of India and the Maldives Customs Service. and G-7 French chairmanship in Biarritz on 25 and 26 The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, was awarded the August, 2019 and G-7 Summit on the invitation of President ‘Rule of Nishan Izzuddin’, the highest award in Maldives. Emmanuel Macron. • Prime minister’s visit to sri lanka: After becoming • g-7 summit, biarritz (France): Prime Minister Shri the Prime Minister for the second time, Shri Narendra Modi Narendra Modi met US President Mr. Donald Trump visited the neighboring island country of Sri Lanka on 9 during the G-7 Summit in the French city of Biarritz. On June in the second leg of his first foreign trip. Shri Modi 26 August, Mr. Modi rejected the scope of any third party chose the neighboring countries of Maldives and Sri Lanka mediation on the Kashmir issue, saying that it is a bilateral for this visit. The visit reflects his policy of ‘neighbourhood issue between India and Pakistan and “we do not want first’. to trouble any third country.” Shri Modi made this remark • Asia-Pacific group supports India’s candidature during a media interaction in the presence of US President for two-year provisional membership in UnAC: Mr. Donald Trump. Mr. Trump immediately supported Shri. Important diplomatic victory for India Modi’s statement. The US President said that he feels • Prime minister’s successful state visit to bhutan: that India and Pakistan can solve the Kashmir problem 10 agreements signed with Bhutan: State visit to Bhutan themselves.

48 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 • Visit to bahrain: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi • Chancellor of germany Angela merkel’s visit to signed a number of agreements during the visit on August india: India-Germany signed agreement in 17 areas 24 in Bahrain. During a conversation with counterpart including defense, agriculture, education Prince Khalif bin Salman Al Khalifa in Bahrain, he spoke During the visit of Chancellor of Germany Dr. Angela Merkel about giving a new dimension to their bilateral relations. to India, India and Germany signed 17 agreements and five Apart from this, Shri Modi also launched RuPay Card in joint resolutions on 1 November. The two countries agreed on Bahrain. issues like defense, agriculture, education, cleaning of rivers. • Howdy modi, Houston: Prime Minister Shri Narendra The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi and the Chancellor Modi addressed more than fifty thousand people at the of Germany, Dr. Angela Merkel, co-chaired the Fifth India- ‘Howdy Modi’ event held at NRG Stadium in Houston, Germany Intergovernmental Dialogue (IGC). Texas on 22 September. President of the United States of • 11th bRiCs summit, brasilia (brazil): Prime Minister America Mr. Donald J. Trump also attended the event with Shri Narendra Modi attended the 11th BRICS Summit in the Prime Minister. Brasilia City, Brazil on 13–14 November. Describing India • ‘Global Goalkeeper Goals Award 2019’: Prime as the most ‘open and investment-friendly’ economy in Minister Shri Narendra Modi thanked the Bill and Melinda the world, he urged companies and businesses of BRICS Gates Foundation for honoring him with the Global countries to invest in India and take advantage of the Goalkeeper Goals Award 2019. The Prime Minister said ‘limitless’ possibilities and ‘countless’ opportunities present that in the last five years, India has made several important in India. • Prime minister shri narendra modi and President efforts towards improving sanitation and hygiene, which of Maldives inaugurate development projects fulfills Gandhiji’s dream of a clean India. in maldives: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and • Prime minister’s visit to America (bloomberg President of Maldives Mr. Ibrahim Mohammad Saleh jointly global business Forum): Prime Minister Shri Narendra inaugurated several important development projects in Modi gave a keynote address on 25 September at Maldives through video conference on 4 December. the Bloomberg Global Business Forum in New York. This included giving Maldives a Coast Guard ship ‘Kamal’ built Addressing the gathering of eminent people, the Prime in India as a gift, launching RuPay cards, illuminating MAL Minister said that he would use this opportunity to talk using LED lights, community development projects and launch about the future direction of India’s development story. of fish processing plants. The Prime Minister said that India’s development story is • Visit of sri lankan President to india: india will give based on four pillars Democracy, Demography, Demand a loan of $ 450 million to sri lanka: The new President and Decisiveness. of Sri Lanka, Gotabaya Rajapaksa held bilateral talks with • india, bangladesh signed seven agreements: India Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 29 November in New and Bangladesh signed seven agreements in New Delhi Delhi during his first official foreign visit. In this dialogue many on 5 October expending their relations. Three projects issues including from terrorism to trade were discussed. At including LPG exports were also launched during this the same time, India announced $ 40 million in aid to Sri period. Lanka to tackle the challenge of terrorism in addition to a $ • india-China second informal summit, 400 million loan facility for development projects. mamallapuram (): The Prime Minister of • Prime minister modi, nepalese Prime minister India, Shri Narendra Modi and the President of China, inaugurated the Jogbani-biratnagar monitoring Mr. Xi Jinping attended their second informal summit in post: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and his Nepalese Mamallapuram (Chennai), India on October 11-12, 2019. counterpart Mr. K. P. Sharma Oli jointly inaugurated the The two leaders exchanged views on strategic, long-term second integrated surveillance post at Jogbani-Biratnagar and important issues of global and regional importance in near the border on 21 January. Significantly, Jogbani- a friendly atmosphere. He also shared his perspective on Biratnagar is an important trade center between the two the issue of national development. countries. This check post is equipped with modern • Prime minister’s visit to saudi Arabia: Prime Minister facilities. Shri Narendra Modi paid a one-day official visit to Saudi • ‘NAMSTE TRUMP’ Arabia on 29 October. The two countries signed several india, America working to protect people from agreements in different key sectors including oil and gas, radical islamic terrorism-Donald trump: US defense and civil aviation on 29 October. President Mr. Donald J. Trump made a historic visit to • Prime minister met the king of Jordan in Riyadh: India on 24-25 February. He reached Ahmedabad on 24 Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi met Shah Abdullah-II February. There he was given a grand welcome by large bin el-Hussein of Jordan on 29 October during the Future number of people. On the same day, he went to Agra to Investment Initiative Forum (FII) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. see the Taj Mahal with the family. In Delhi on 25 February, It also included the memorandum of understanding and US President Mr. Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi agreement signed during the visit of Shah of Jordan from pledged to further strengthen the India-US Comprehensive 27 February 2018 to 1 March 2018. Global Strategic Partnership.

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 49 BegiNNiNg of the New era of Structural chaNge keeping the society and the nation has taken several important steps at the center. Due to the concept towards improving infrastructure of national development with development. Reducing the road NitiN Gadkari common prosperity, the country is travel time is the most powerful moving forward in the show of new means of reducing the cost of change. essential commodities along with reative thinking, social The Ministry of Road, Transport fuel. The expressway is the most spirit and strong will give and Highways is playing an essential component to make the c energy to take the task to important role in the economic country’s development dynamic. the finishing line even in difficult and social development of the Therefore our main focus is on the situations. The government under nation. Taking the work of highway expressway. We are constructing the leadership of Prime Minister to expressway, road construction 3 new expressways in the country. Shri Narendra Modi has set new up to 30 km a day and green Two expressways have been records in every field, because the mobility has taken the country to a dedicated to the country. There work was done by setting goals new dimension. is a record of construction of 35 with a new perspective in every The second innings of the Modi km long 6 lane Eastern Peripheral field. Due to the co-ordination government is going to speed up Expressway in just 500 days. The between government, organization development. I got an opportunity 90-km Delhi-Meerut Expressway and society, public confidence to carry forward the works which with 14 lanes is the first-widest in government and dedication were started in the previous term expressway in the country. The towards the organization has by getting the responsibility of the construction of 1320 km long increased. All components of Ministry of Road Transport and expressway between Delhi government have been functioning Highways again. Our government Mumbai has started. Apart from this, 6 economic corridors are proposed in the country. This period can be called as the new age of structural change in the country. With taking road construction to a new level, we are giving a new dimension to logistics. Delhi-Mumbai Expressway will be a better model of logistics development. There is also a plan to run trucks, buses with electricity on this expressway. There is a plan to create such a structure on the 14 Lane Delhi-Meerut Expressway side of the expressway,

50 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 so that grains, fruits and locally Uttarakhand. With the reduce We are promoting e-vehicles in produced goods can be easily distance from Jammu to Srinagar, the country. The government is transported from one state to people will be able to reach encouraging two wheeler, four another and outside the country. Lakbakh in all seasons. After the wheeler electric vehicles. Similarly, In the last one year, road projects construction of Shyama Prasad our ministry is also encouraging to worth three and a half lakh crores Mukherjee (Chenani Nashri) convert trucks, buses into organic have been approved. Between tunnel route, a 10 km long tunnel fuels. Green mobility is a beneficial 2014 and 2019, road projects connecting Jammu to Srinagar, option. It saves fuel, reduces worth five and a half lakh crores had work of Zojila pollution and makes this fuel started. Prior to 2014, the cheaper than petroleum material. road sector was struggling Our objective is to reduce the with lack of funds due to The Chardham burden of import of 6 lakh crore the wrong policies of the Project, petroleum products every year previous government. Ramvanagam Marg, on the country. In Nagpur, we Work of more than six lakh have successfully used gas to crores was stuck. Such a Kailash Mansarovar, the drive vehicles extracted from gap of mistrust between beginning of the new era toilet water. the government and of structural change, the There are one thousand companies was created, construction of the Buddhist electric taxis, autos operating which was not easy to circuit is part of it. The day in Nagpur. We are now going bridge. Big companies to convert Vidarbha into Green had backed out of is not far when we will be Energy. I believe that if all the work. The problems able to go to Mansarovar cities of the country extract gas were not only solved by from Uttarakhand. With from the contaminated water co-ordinating between the reduced distance from of their toilet, they can become ministry officials, bankers, self-sufficient by driving a vehicle Jammu to Srinagar, people companies, but also from it. created an atmosphere of will be able to reach We need to be ‘Atmanirbhar’ trust that the companies Ladakh in all... from every point of view. After the that backed out of the road global epidemic of Corona, the construction came forward world is looking at us with great and the banks also stepped hope. Many companies are eager in to cooperate with the lending. tunnel connecting to come to our country with which The length of national highways in Ladakh is going to start soon. has plenty of electricity and water. the country has reached one lakh Our government has passed the They have faith in the leadership 50 thousand km. We are aiming Motor Vehicle Amendment Bill of the country, the power system. to make it two lakh km. We are and has brought transparency This belief has been achieved due not just making roads, but also in many issues. This will reduce to the transparent functioning of connecting backward, forested road accidents. Corruption of the government. The country is areas. The work of providing better the Transport Department will going through such a phase of connectivity to tourism, religious be curbed. The general public is transformation, which will create a places is also being done. The relieved of unnecessary trouble golden India. Chardham Project, Ramvanagam and discipline will come in those Marg, Kailash Mansarovar, the who drive vehicles arbitrarily. (The writer is Minister of beginning of the new era of Vehicle speed has increased in Road Transport & Highways; structural change, the construction the country, accidents have come Shipping; Micro, Small of the Buddhist circuit is part of it. down, we have also taken many and Medium Enterprises, The day is not far when we will be steps to solve the problem of Government of India) able to go to Mansarovar from vehicle pollution.

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 51 coMMitted for the welfare of triBalS Nagaland a result, MFP worth Rs 40 crore has been realized in 17 states 2. Minimum support Price Price within a fortnight of price revision. to Minor Forest Produce: arJuN MuNda The MSP of 50 items 3. tribal education: categorized as MFP by the The Eklavya Model Residential he Ministry of Tribal Affairs Ministry has been upwardly Schools fully funded by my was set up in 1999 with the revised w.e.f May 1 this year to Ministry took a giant leap in T objective of a coordinated enable the tribal communities the year with 69 being made and planned approach for over all tide over the difficult situation operational and 100 new schools development of Scheduled tribe created by Covid pandemic. As sanctioned across the country. communities in the country. The As on date, there are 285 such 1st year of National Democratic schools with a total enrolment Alliance Government 2.0 under of around 73,000, an important the dynamic leadership of Shri attribute being 50:50 ratio of Girls Narendra Modi has seen several to boy students. significant steps taken by my For the Tribal students pursuing Ministry towards tribal welfare. studies at pre and post matriculation level, my Ministry siGniFicAnt interventions has during the past one year beinG MADe As beLoW: disbursed scholarships to 1. Pradhan Mantri the tune of Rs van Dhan 2400 crore in yojana: 4 different Around schemes 1205 Van with total Dhan Kendras set up in past one year for livelihood generation beneficiaries among tribal to the tune of gatherers of minor 32 lakh. forest produce which is expected Certain special initiatives to benefit 3.70 lakh beneficiaries. like Kayapalat Abhiyaan in 18075 Self Help Groups are Maharashtra benefitting 2.50 lakh created and Rs 166 crore allotted. students of 502 Ashram schools, Broom Processing & Production strengthening of Kanya Shiksha Facilities at Van Dhan Kendra Parisars in Madhya Pradesh and Tobu Tehsil, Mon District, Prayas Avasiya Vidyalaya in LWE affected districts of Chhattisgarh

52 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 received financial assistance to have been integrated with held festivals in the name of ‘Aadi the tune of Rs 4.30 crore in past Digi Locker tool to facilitate Mahotsava’ in 17 states across one year from the Ministry. verification. the country including at Delhi.

4. Measures for all round 7. tribal culture & research: 8. tribal Healers & tribal development and Good A searchable digital tribal Medicine: Governance: repository (http:// repository. The Ministry as part of its initiative Funds to the tune of Rs 1600 tribal.gov.in is being conceived in Tribal Medicine aims to create a crore has been disbursed to centralized knowledge hub in the States for infrastructure projects subject. As part of same, Tribal including construction of public The Research Institute , Uttarakhand buildings, roads, schools, has been designated as a minor irrigation facilities, solar Ministry nodal centre. Projects have lighting among others. has launched the also been assigned to A nation wide capacity unique initiative in AIIMS- Jodhpur, Patanjali building porgrammes for partnership with Face Research Institute, elected representatives Book India christened Pravara Institute of from ST community Medical Sciences and was also launched in as ‘GOAL- Going Online Mata Amritanandmayi association with UNDP As Leaders’ program which Institute to document in February, 2020. aims at enrolling around 5000 and conserve the tribal youth from across the traditional tribal 5. tribal Health Action healing techniques. Plan: country as mentees who shall A Tribal Health Action be groomed by mentors with 9. GOAL Initiative: Plan comprising of focus on digital literacy, The Ministry has a comprehensive life skills and leadership launched the unique Tribal Primary Health traits for a period of 7 initiative in partnership Care model is ready for with Face Book India implementation to mitigate months followed by 2 christened as ‘GOAL- gaps in health infrastructure months of internship Going Online As Leaders’ in tribal areas. with leading program which aims at organizations. enrolling around 5000 tribal 6. Initiatives by Tribal Affairs youth from across the country as Ministry in information mentees who shall be groomed technology sector: by mentors with focus on digital My Ministry holds the unique to serve as one point reference literacy, life skills and leadership distinction of bieng the first to for all research papers, books, traits for a period of 7 months develop DBT portal(dbttribal. reports & documents, folk songs, followed by 2 months of internship gov.in) for Pre and Post Matric photo and video related to Tribal with leading organizations. This Scholarship schemes that are culture and knowledge. initiative is expected to bridge Centrally sponsored. Data of Ministry has extended financial the digital divide and empower 45 lakh beneficiaries of various assistance to several states to the tribal youth. scholarship schemes are now organize tribal festivals like Pawl (The writer is available on a digital platform. Kut in Mizoram, Horbill Festival in The National Fellowship and Union Minister of Tribal Nagaland, Medaram Jathara in Overseas Scholarship schemes Affairs) Telangana where as TRIFED has

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 53 layiNg fouNdatioN StoNe for ‘aatMaNirBhar Bharat’ in the form of six months’ leave in Stick was getting imported. We pregnancy; Medical Termination became ‘Aatmanirbhar’ and now of Pregnancy Bill, 2020; Assisted it is a ‘’ story. Even Prakash Reproductive Technology ventilators are being produced Javadekar Regulation Bill, 2020 and in India. 165 distilleries and 962 amended Protection of Children manufacturers were given licence odi ji has led this country from Sexual Offences Act. to produce hand sanitisers successfully for the last In fighting COVID, we held the which resulted in production of m six years. This is the longest and very strict lockdown 87 lakh litres of hand sanitisers. first year of the Second term which ensured minimum Government released Rs. 15,000 which has been completed. damage for the country. We had crore health package and Rs. This year was eventful. Modiji’s no capacity in many areas. We 11,000 crores for State Disaster work can be seen as a three- had zero COVID hospitals. Now Relief Fund to enable the States pronged activities. First, some we have more than 800. We had to take up the challenge and fight historical national initiatives. only one lab for testing and now it without borrowing. In COVID Second, fighting COVID19 and, we have more than 300. PPE fight, 3000 trains have ferried third, laying foundation stone suit, Mask and even the Swab nearly 45 lakhs migrant labours for the future of India through “Aatmanirbhar Bharat”. Abrogation of Article 370, creation of Union Territories of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir, passing of Citizenship Amendment Bill and abolition of Triple Talaq, facilitation of Ram temple, can be grouped into national and historical political initiatives. Kashmir situation has improved thereafter. Now, even the internet has been restored. Our forces are keeping watch on Pakistan’s nefarious designs. A comprehensive agreement to end over 50 years of old Bodo crisis was done and all sections of the society are very happy. Likewise, Bru-Reang refugee crisis has been solved successfully with a tripartite agreement between Tripura, Government of India and Mizoram. Also, in one year, it ushered major social initiatives

54 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 back to their homes. Thousands crore. 2% interest subvention has 100% weaponry, but were not of Indian residents stranded in been given on small and medium allowing FDI in Defence. Modi ji foreign countries were evacuated loans. 63 lakh self-help groups brought the country out of this successfully. will receive collateral free lending hypocrisy and allowed 74% of Modi Ji cares for masses upto Rs. 20 lakh which was FDI into defence production and first. In his very first package, he restricted earlier to Rs.10 lakh. simultaneously banned import had given Food Security cover The definition of small of defence spares and weapons to 80 crore families with 25 Kg. and medium industries was which are made in India. 1,00,000 rice / wheat and 5 Kg of pulses changed to accommodate crore rupees for MNREGA is one free of cost (for five months). It more companies to benefit. of the best initiative as it provides continued with earlier schemes They have been provided with jobs to the needy and, as migrant of providing 5 Kg a month rice / Rs.4,45,000 crores for small and workers are returning, there will wheat at a highly subsidised rate be more demand for jobs in the of Rs. 2 – 3 per Kg. For nearly 5 rural areas. UPA never crossed crore non-ration card holders, the expenditure on MNREGA by UPA never Government gave 10 Kg free rice more than Rs. 37,000 crores. crossed the / wheat and 2 Kg of pulses for expenditure on Our last five years’ record is an two months. 20 crore Jandhan MNREGA by more than average of Rs. 55,000 crores. accounts of women received Rs. 37,000 crores. Our Now we have nearly doubled it Rs. 30,000 crores. Each one last five years’ record is an to Rs. 1,00,000 crores. Modi got Rs. 1,500 (500 x 3) in average of Rs. 55,000 crores. Government cares for the poor. their bank accounts. 8 crore Now we have nearly doubled Many concessions are given families got 3 gas cylinders it to Rs. 1,00,000 crores. Modi to the revamp of industries and worth Rs. 2,000. Nearly 9 Government cares for the tax payers. crore farmers received Rs. poor. Many concessions Lastly, the headline of this 2,000 into their bank accounts. are given to the revamp package is the historical reforms 50 lakh Redi-Patriwalas will of industries and tax in agricultural sector. Farmers get Rs. 10,000 each. Lakhs of payers. have been freed from APMCs. construction workers got fund They can sell anywhere by their from the Construction Workers’ choice. They can engage with Fund. If somebody calculates, anybody for any period his farm the 10% bottom of our society product and its captive marketing has received more than Rs. medium industries and NBFCs and he has been given relief from 10,000 in the family. put together. Rs. 1,00,000 many anti-farmer provisions The third part of the crores for agri-infrastructure of Essential Commodities Act. development is, major programmes, plus Rs. 20,000 Now, there will be no restricts on reforms unleashed through crores for Fisheries Development farmers when market offers them “Aatmanirbhar” package. The five and nearly Rs. 15,000 crores for more price. pillars of Aatmanirbhar Bharat vaccination and treatment of foot “Aatmanirbhar” package will are Economy, Infrastructure, and mouth disease in the cattle decide the future of India. It Systems, Demography and population have been provided. is visionary, historical and Demand. It is a Rs. 20 lakh crore There is credit link subsidy of Rs. prudent. package which is 10% of the 70,000 crores which is important. GDP. It cares for every section of Major reforms have been (The writer is Minister of the society. EPI contribution was unleashed in this package. Self- Information and Broadcasting, reduced for both employers and reliance in Defence is a historical Environment, Forest and employees to the tune of Rs.2760 initiative. We were importing Climate Change)

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 55 “dyNaMic teNure” of aN iNdoMitaBle leaderShiP

the country. Modi government, while working The countless decisions taken by with credibility, has presented it’s Modi Government in past six years day to day statement of account with the aim of providing benefit to to the public for scrutiny. To honour dharMeNdra PradhaN the last man standing in the queue the confidence that people have as propounded in ‘antyodaya’ has shown in our government in the he result to bore fruit in every sphere of public second term, the government Election was announced on life. Be it inculcating the spirit of has taken decisions that have T 23rd May 2019 and country duty towards nation with Swachh earned accolades and reputation voted in favour of BJP led by our Bharat Abhiyan, propagating yoga across the world. Keeping people’s leader, Narendra Modi, as lifestyle in different parts of the personal benefits aside the electing him for a second term with world or providing housing, fuel, Modi government- 2.0 scrapped humongous majority. The coalition Jan Dhan Bank accounts and Article 370 and 35-A, fulfilling secured 353 seats of which 303 basic medical treatment to the aspirations of the people of were won by BJP alone. This is Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. an extraordinary achievement for The At the same time, the Citizenship any party in the political history of Amendment Act (CAA) is an India. This mandate by the public countless effort to curb the influx of people to Modi Government-2.0 was a decisions from Bangladesh and to provide result of the commitment shown taken by Modi citizenship to the thousands of by Modi government in it’s first Government in Hindu, Sikh and Parsee minorities term, which was evident in every living in adverse conditions in decision that the government past six years with terror encouraging Pakistan. The took. One would remember the the aim of providing government also struck down destruction caused by cyclone benefit to the last man the demonic and regressive Fani last year in May. Right standing in the queue Triple Talaq Act to put an end before election results, when to the discrimination against normally political parties are busy as propounded in the Muslim women, which had drawing up plans and analysing ‘Antyodaya’ has plagued them for decades. On the and dissecting the exit polls, Prime bore fruit in every economic front, the government Minister Modi focused on providing sphere of had accelerated the economic relief to the citizens struck by the reforms started in the first term. calamity. Similarly, a few days back public life. With a motto of providing ‘clean when cyclone Amphan wrecked fuel, better life’, Ujjwala Scheme havoc in Odisha and West Bengal, the last man that was started on May 1st 2016 PM Modi, while assessing the in most remote areas, PM Modi from Ballia in UP, is currently situation in these states, released developed a roadmap, which has benefiting more than 8 crore 50 a relief package of Rs 500 and Rs been successful in achieving all lakh people. The linking of smaller 1000 crores respectively. This very aspects of welfare politics. areas and towns with City Gas empathetic aspect of PM Modi No country in the world has a Distribution (CGD) Network, and binds him in one thread with every system to judge a government 10th round of tendering in CGD is cast, sect, region and individual of based on a year’s working, but surely a massive achievement. A

56 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 network of more than 10,000 CNG current Covid-19 Crisis. Proactively Ujjwala Yojana has not only stations was developed to improve acting on the experience of few helped accelerate the process of the cooking fuel and transportation other Covid-19 impacted countries, providing government help to the facilities. In comparison to other government announced lockdown poor and needy, but also became the big economies, gas share in Indian at an appropriate time, which mainstay to provide the government economy is quite less and we have helped to save millions of lives and assistance to poorest of poor with taken steps to improve the situation also earn exemplary reputation complete transparency. Before in this sector. By the end of 10th internationally, as a role model to commencement of Lockdown 4.0, 6 round of bidding, 70% population the world. The patience with which crore 92 lakh people have received of the country will be linked to our countrymen responded to the Ujjwala Gas cylinders and subsidy City Gas network. To augment the call for lockdown by PM Modi, amounting to Rs 8432 Crores has supply and distribution of natural itself shows the trust they have in been transferred to their bank gas, an investment of Rs 4.2 lakh the leadership capability of PM account via Direct Benefit Transfer crore is being done. Narendra Modi. (DBT), resulting in the biggest relief By 2030, this will double up package of the world. the share of Natural Gas in India’s As the Ujjwala Yojana is energy needs. While it will make The expanding its horizon in the society, fuel more affordable to consumers, India is gaining center stage of we will also be able to meet Ujjwala Scheme world’s energy demands. Thereby our international environmental that benefits those India is coming up as largest commitments towards cleaner living below poverty supplier and consumer of energy. energy. Importantly this path As the world fights the breaking development effort is line, have be provided Coronavirus crisis, the path again led by eastern part of India, with three free gas towards “Atmanirbhar Bharat” which was once considered as cylinders and Direct shown by PM Modi, will certainly the proud epitome of energy, bring new opportunities and mining and human resource for Benefit Transfer (DBT) employment to not just in our cities the country but due to disinterest under ‘Pradhan but also in the villages. Credit for of some previous governments, Mantri Gareeb this goes to PM Narendra Modi led were wrongly labeled as backward government, whose people centric and ‘Bimaru’ landscape. Kalyan Yojana”. policies are based on politics of Modi Government-2.0 led welfare with the motto “Vasudeva ‘Mission Proorvodaya’, which is Kutumbakam”. There was a time Rs 102 lakh crore worth National when lots of debates happen on Infrastructure Pipeline Scheme To fight this Pandemic, the lethargy of governments but is progressing at a brisk pace. besides providing other monetary now people no longer suffer from It will provide the infrastructure benefits, Modi government 2.0 government inaction and Modi framework to cater to the needs of has released one of the biggest Government 2.0 has completely 21st century. By 2030, country will stimulus packages in the world changed the perception that have 300 new Steel Manufacturing worth Rs. 20 lakh crore that will decisions in a democracy are Units. This will help achieve the provide relief to labourers, farmers, always taken opportunistically and target of increasing per capita steel middle class and industries that based on political benefits. This is use from 70kg to 160 kg. This will form the financial backbone of the the new welfare politics, which has immensely help small and medium country. In addition to this it is quite instilled confidence among people scale steel units and will generate appropriate to highlight here that for the current political leadership. huge employment for thousands of the Ujjwala Scheme that benefits those living below poverty line, people. (The writer is Minister of have be provided with three free The commitments and empathy Petroleum & Natural Gas and gas cylinders and Direct benefit displayed by Modi Government Minister of Steel) during last 6 years, is also being transfer under ‘Pradhan Mantri witnessed by the world in the Gareeb Kalyan Yojana”.

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 57 MoviNg ahead to achieve goal of a StroNg, Self-reliaNt iNdia connected the great India with a strong nefarious campaign not only in India thread of “unity in diversity” which is but also abroad through their “fake- committed to prosperity, happiness, fabricated funda & propaganda” Mukhtar aBBas well-being and safety of the entire of intolerance, communalism and Naqvi humanity cutting across lines of discrimination against Minorities in religion, region and the country. While India etc. ndia has been strongly moving Pakistan chose the path of Islamic This “Modi Bashing Club” is frustrated on the path to achieve the nation after the Partition, Indians chose as their nefarious and “fake, false, fixing i goal of a strong, self-reliant the path of a secular democratic factory” has been comprehensively and safe nation under the exceptional, nation. Minorities’ population in exposed before the people of the determined and dynamic leadership Pakistan, which was about 24 per country. After Modi Ji became the Prime of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, cent of the total population during the Minister in 2014, this “Gumrahi Gang” who is tirelessly and honestly working Partition, has now been reduced to just (misinformation gang) projected that with commitment to “Rashtraniti” 2 per cent. While in India, Minorities’ India’s relations with Islamic nations will of “inclusive prosperity and population which was about 9 per deteriorate, the countries influenced by empowerment” of all citizens. Each cent of the total population during the Christianity will keep a distance from and every Indian is feeling proud on Partition, has now increased to over India, India will witness large scale courageous decisions of Shri Narendra 22 per cent. Minorities in India are riots, Minorities especially Muslims Modi, taken in the interest of the flourishing equally with all the citizens will lose their religious, social and country. Shri Narendra Modi’s strong with a sense of equality, security and economic rights. But the situation after will-power and decisive, extraordinary, prosperity. Misinformation against Modi Ji becoming the Prime Minister far-sighted leadership has made him a such gracious and tolerant country has been completely opposite. “Credible Brand” of “good-governance and its effective leadership is nothing For the first time after the and inclusive progress”. but “height of ignorance and mental Independence, India has such close While on one hand, every Indian is bankruptcy”. and strong ties with almost all the proud of credible achievements and Unfortunately, some people due to their Islamic nations of the world, European effective leadership of India; on the “prejudiced political insanity”, linked and African countries have come much other hand frustrated professional the country’s secularism exclusively closer to India, countries such as Saudi and traditional “Modi Phobia Club”, with Minorities especially Muslims. Arabia, UAE, Afghanistan, Russia, has again launched a “false, fake These people unfortunately projected Palestine, Mauritius, Maldives etc have funda & propaganda” by playing secularism as a “Patent Political conferred Shri Narendra Modi with “Islamophobia” card to harm the fabric Product” of Minorities. Their wilful “sin” their highest civilian awards. Besides, of eternal magnificent legacy of India has not only hurt India’s plurality but the United Nations has also conferred and plurality of Indians. it also became a reason that Indian Shri Narendra Modi with prestigious The “India Bashing Brigade” needs to Muslims left behind on the path of “Champions of the Earth Award”. realise that “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, mainstream development for decades. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s which means “the world is one family”, These same people with “narrow- “global acceptance and popularity” is a cultural commitment of India and minded self-interests” are engaged doesn’t need any certificate. Indians. “स셍핇 भ셍नत酁 स酁啍िनः स셍핇 सनत酁 啍नरामया। in a conspiracy to defame India and Not a single riot took place during about स셍핇 भ饍ा啍ण पशयनत酁 मा कशश椿饍 द酁ःिभागभ셍े配॥” is hurt India’s eternal commitment to last 5 years of the Modi Regime. It is India’s legacy which means may all “स셍핇 भ셍नत酁 स酁啍िनः स셍핇 सनत酁 啍नरामया”. This “Modi notable that before recent Delhi riots, the people be prosperous, may all Phobia Club” has been unable to there was a message in circulation the people be healthy and may all digest “popularity, performance” of during Shaheen Bagh protests, which the people witness happiness and be Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi said, “Modi claims.. his regime has not away from pain, sadness, this should and India’s inclusive progress under witnessed a single riot, we will demolish be our commitment. This inclusive his able leadership. Since 2014, these his pride..” After this nefarious teaching commitment full of human values has “frustrated souls” are engaged in and preaching, the incidents, which

58 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 took place in Delhi, inflicted injuries to educational empowerment of all the include more than 33 per cent farmers the entire humanity. citizens including Minorities. These belonging to Minority communities. Those women who sat on protests at development works for Minorities About 37 per cent of more than 8 Shaheen Bagh cannot be termed as were never done for decades by the crore beneficiaries of “Ujjwala Yojna” anti-nationals, but it’s also a truth that governments of “pseudo secular providing free gas connection belong they had been misguided by “Bogus syndicate” who “politically exploited” to Minority communities. Bashing Brigade” for its narrow minded a large community “mercilessly and Our Government provided easy loans self-interests. This brigade pushed blatantly”. to about 24 crore people under “Mudra these women on a path which had an There is not a single incident of Yojna” for small and medium business “entry gate” but it didn’t had an “exit discrimination against any section of and other employment oriented gate”. the society including Minorities in the economic activities and more than 36 This was a “calculated conspiracy” by Modi Government. Socio-economic, per cent beneficiaries are from Minority the “Bogus Bashing Brigade” who has religious, Constitutional, educational communities. Besides, Minorities been crazy to defame and disgrace rights of every section of the society have also been benefitted significantly Shri Modi and India. This brigade are absolutely safe and secure in India. from other welfare schemes related tried to celebrate their “dirty drama” All the sections including Minorities are to water, electricity, road, education, on dead bodies of innocent people, strongly moving forward on the path employment and employment now they are writing letters to other opportunities. Beneficiaries of these countries to defame India to justify their welfare schemes obviously were false and fake claims and projections Minorities who had been deliberately in 2014. Investigating agencies are More than thrown into “quagmire of poverty” for able to reveal the key conspirators and decades. 10 lakh people the perpetrators will be taught such Besides, more than 10 lakh people a lesson by the law that they will not belonging to Minority belonging to Minority communities think of such heinous crime even in communities have been have been provide employment and their dreams. provided employment and employment opportunities through Members of this “Consortium of employment opportunities schemes such as “Hunar Haat”, Conspiracies” never raised any through schemes such Garib Nawaz Self Employment question on more than 5000 riots as “Hunar Haat”, Garib Scheme”, “Seekho Aur Kamao” etc. took place under the Congress More than 3 crore 50 lakh students, regimes from Bhiwandi to Bhagalpur, Nawaz Self Employment including 50 per cent girls, from Maliyana to Malegaon. They didn’t Scheme”, “Seekho Minority communities have been given even shed crocodile tears on these Aur Kamao”... various scholarships. genocides because these people were Our efforts ensured that school drop- members of the gang of “Selective out rate of Minority girls which was Pseudo Secularists”. earlier 72 per cent, has come down The Modi Government never of “Development with Dignity” to 32 per cent. We will bring it down planned development on the basis under the Modi Government. further to zero per cent in the coming of Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Christians or When our Government provided 2 days. 100 per cent digitisation of waqf religion, region and caste. The Modi crore houses to poor, 31 per cent properties across the country has Government’s priority has been the beneficiaries are from Minority been completed and 100 per cent poor, weaker, needy and deprived community. Our Government has Geo-tagging of waqf properties will be sections of the society; each and every provided electricity to a large number complete soon. The number of Indian step has been taken keeping in view of about 6 lakh villages of the country Haj pilgrims has been increased from the welfare of these needy sections. which were deprived of electricity 1 lakh 30,000 to record 2 lakh in 5 Still, some people with “prejudiced for decades. These villages include years of the Modi regime. For the mind set” are trying to defame India by more than 39 per cent Minority first time after the Independence, the raising the bogey of “Islamophobia”. community dominated villages who Central Government is providing 100 These people needs to be informed were in darkness and now have been per cent funding for construction of about the known truths regarding the provided electricity. Our Government hospitals, hostels, school, colleges, welfare works carried out by the Modi provided benefits to 22 crore farmers ITIs, community centres and different Government for socio-economic- under ‘’Kisan Samman Nidhi” which socio-economic and educational

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 59 activities across the country under during the Corona pandemic. These include a large number of Muslims. Pradhanmantri Jan Vikas Karykram beneficiaries include a large number of Our Government did not engage in (PMJVK). Minorities. chest thumping over steps taken for The Modi Government has also Under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan socio-economic and educational developed much needed various basic Anna Yojana, 5 crore 30 lakh needy empowerment of poor, downtrodden infrastructure in Minority concentrated people have been provided free ration. including Minorities. We also never tried areas across the country on war-footing During the lockdown, more than 4 crore to take political mileage for this work. for socio-economic-educational and people have been provided free gas For the Modi Government, “Inclusive employment oriented activities. Under cylinders under the Ujjwala scheme. Empowerment” is “Rashtra Niti” and not PMJVK, during the last about 5 years, More than 8 crore 30 lakh farmers have “Rajniti”. All sections of the society in the Modi Government has constructed- been given financial assistance under India are working united in fight against 1512 New School Buildings, 22514 Pradhan Kisan Samman Nidhi worth Rs Corona pandemic. All mass gatherings Additional Class Rooms, 630 Hostels, 16,000 crore. About 20 crore women are restricted at Temples, Gurudwaras, 152 Residential Schools, 8820 Smart from low-income groups were given Rs Churches, Mosques, Dargah and other Classes (Including in Kendriya 500 per month through Direct Benefit religious and social places. All sections Vidyalayas), 32 Colleges, 94 ITIs, 13 Transfer (DBT) system. About 3.5 crore are honestly following guidelines of Polytechnics, 02 Navodaya Vidyalayas, labourers engaged in construction lockdown, curfew, social distancing 403 Sadbhav Mandaps (multi-purpose activities have been provide financial with a respect to every appeal made community centre), 598 Market Sheds, assistance of Rs 31,000 crore. All these by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi 2842 Toilet & drinking water facilities to deal with the challenges of Corona in schools, 135 Common Service pandemic. Centres, 22 Working Women Hostels, Further, like other various religious 1717 Different Health Projects, 05 Prime Minister and social organisations; Dargah, Hospitals, 08 Hunar Hubs, 10 Sports Shri Narendra Modi’s Mosques, Imambada, Ajumans and Facilities, 5956 Anganwadi Centres Government has been other Minority institutions etc are etc across the country. working with commitment helping the needy in this crisis. Still, Although, the Minorities have been to “Sabka Sath, Sabka “Consortium of Conspiracies” are benefitted equally by all the welfare involved in their nefarious design to schemes of our Government, still Vikas, Sabka Vishwas”. create misinformation on social media the Minority Affairs Ministry’s Budget, “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha and other platforms in connivance with which was Rs 3500 crore during the Bharat” “Cyber Conspirators”; they are also Congress regime, has now been engaged in misinformation campaign increased by the Modi Government through various misleading drives to more than Rs 5000 crore, an including writing letters to various increase of 70 per cent. Besides, steps taken by the Modi Government foreign organisations against India. the representation of Minorities in the have benefitted Minorities equally But strong eternal commitment of my Central Government services, which during these hours of crisis. country will defeat & demolish “Fake- was about 4 per cent in 2014, has now When the challenges of Corona were Fabricated Islamophobia Card” of significantly increased to over 10 per in initial stage across the world in early “India Bashing Brigade” and their cent under the Modi Government. January this year; several countries “Horror Hate Hubbub”. Prime Minister Similarly, for the first time in last including Pakistan had not been Shri Narendra Modi’s Government about 60 years, a record number of taking care of their people stranded has been working with commitment people from Minority communities abroad; then the Modi Government to “Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka have been selected in administrative brought back thousands of Indians Vishwas”. “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha services. This has happened because stranded in Wuhan, Iran, Iraq, Saudi Bharat” is the soul of my country, any of the Modi Government’s transparent Arabia and other countries. Majority of attack on this eternal legacy is an and impartial working and giving these people were Muslims. In recent assault on the soul of 135 crore Indians. recognition and value to the talent. “Vande Bharat Mission” also, the Our united efforts to become equal More than 31 thousand crores rupees Indian Government is bringing back partner of India’s inclusive progress is has been disbursed through direct thousands of Indians from countries our “Rashtra Dharma”. benefit transfer to about 32 crore 32 such as Maldives, UAE, Saudi Arabia, (The writer is Minister of lakh needy people amid the lockdown Iran, Qatar and other countries which Minority Affairs)

60 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 Modi goverNMeNt 2.0 a year of ideology, a year of achieveMeNtS The PM turned this crises into an Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, the first opportunity by taking bold steps president of . which has attracted the attention of But the work which was not done in the whole world. This one year has the last 70 years, was done by the PraBhat Jha emerged as a landmark for India Modi government within 70 days of which is full of achievements and its second term. The government n 30 May 2020, the NDA challenges. proved that nationalism and national government at the Center, After independence, the policy unity were paramount for it by o headed by Prime Minister of appeasement and arbitrariness passing a bill removing Articles 370 Shri Narendra Modi is completing brought many problems to the and 35A from the Constitution with one year of its second term. In the nation. A major problem was the a two-thirds majority in both houses first term, while the government provision of Sections 370 and 35A of Parliament. As Union Territories has ensured the initiatives taken in the Constitution for the state of of India, Jammu and Kashmir reaches the door of the last Jammu and Kashmir. Due to Article and Ladakh have embarked on person in the last line of society, 370, Kashmir problem became a a new path of democracy and it has also succeeded in laying development. a strong foundation to make this This diversity and unity makes decade India’s decade and this India unique in the world. It is the century India’s century. Under the The responsibility and duty of every leadership of the Prime Minister, government proved that government to strengthen this unity. a step was taken towards the nationalism and national As far as the Modi government is creation of a ‘New India’. We have unity were paramount for concerned, in the first term May witnessed a quantum change in it by passing a bill removing 2014 to May 2019 and first year of thinking of the world regarding Articles 370 and 35A from the second term from May 2019 the Constitution with a two- India. The NDA won a historic to May 2020, many steps have thirds majority in both houses victory under the leadership of of Parliament. As Union been taken to strengthen the Shri Narendra Modi on 23 May Territories of India, Jammu national unity ‘One Nation - One 2019 as a result of the public and Kashmir and Ladakh Tax’, ‘One Nation - One Mobility confidence generated by ‘Sabka have embarked on a new Card’, ‘One Nation - One Fast Tag’, Sath-Sabka Vikas’. With immense path of democracy and ‘One Country - One Constitution’ public support, on 30 May 2019, development. and ‘One Nation - One Ration Card’ Shri Narendra Modi took the oath in this era of global epidemic corona of Prime Minister for second time. today . The feeling of national unity While the initial months of the first and Indianness is unprecedented year of the second term have been challenger to Indian national in the country today. The Modi dedicated to the ideology by the unity and a center of terrorism government has done the work government under the leadership of moving away from the mainstream of bringing the country out of the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, of nation and development. Those narrowness of regionalism uniting and now uniting the entire nation who have been in the leadership the entire nation together. together in the past few months of the country, their indifference While the NDA government against the challenges arising to nationalism paid a heavy price. headed by Prime Minister Shri from the global pandemic Corona. 41,849 people have been martyred Narendra Modi worked with the in Jammu and Kashmir including Dr. motto of ‘Sabka Saath - Sabka Vikas’

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 61 in the first term, in the second term, opportunity to celebrate the 550th an autonomous trust ‘Shri Ram ‘Sabka Saath - Sabka Vikas - Sabka Prakash Parv of Guru Nanak Dev Ji Janmabhoomi Tirath Kshetra’. The Viswas’. Free gas connections to 8 with full respect in the country and in Trust is working in Ayodhya at the crore poor, 2 crore houses for the the entire the world. It was pleasant birthplace of Lord Shri Ram fully poor, bank accounts of about 38 that in the divine atmosphere of independent to take decisions on crore poor, 50 crore people got free the inauguration of Kartarpur Sahib the construction Grand and divine treatment facility up to Rs 5 lakh, Corridor on 9 November 2019, Shri Ram Temple. Right after 31 insurance cover to 24 crore people, the Supreme Court of the country years, the promise made by the more than 2.5 crore people got free gave a historic verdict on the issue to the electricity connection provided with of Ramjanmabhoomi. The verdict country is being fulfilled. Excavation complete transparency and without of the Supreme Court marked the and construction work have started discrimination. Discrimination end of centuries of Hindu-Muslim at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi site and against women employees has bitterness and paved the way for the construction of the temple will been eliminated by bringing salary be completed as soon as possible. code. While ‘Pradhan Mantri Laghu At the same time, according to the Trader Maandhan Yojana 2019’ has instructions of the Supreme Court, Excavation and been approved so that small traders the Sunni Waqf Board has been construction work now avail minimum pension of Rs has started at Shri given five acres of land in Ayodhya 3000 after attaining 60 years of Ram Janmabhoomi site for the construction of the mosque. age. All the farmers were brought and the construction of the In his second term, Prime under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan temple will be completed Minister Shri Narendra Modi has Yojana. The Ministry of Jal Shakti as soon as possible. At the proved his mettle by solving the was set up to provide clean water same time, according to the Bodo problem and enacting the to all and to comprehensively instructions of the Supreme Citizenship Amendment Act. The Court, the Sunni Waqf Board address water related issues. Union Government and the Assam has been given five acres of A law against Triple Talaq was land in Ayodhya for the Government, led by Shri Narendra enacted by the NDA government at construction of the Modi, have recently entered into a the Center under the leadership of mosque. historic agreement with the Bodo Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi organizations to end the 50-year to give Muslim mothers and sisters Bodo problem. With this agreement, their rights within ten weeks of their such a complex problem, in which second term. The Muslim Women Ramandir construction. more than 4 thousand people Marriage Protection Protection Bill- In 1989, at its session in died, has been solved. Another 2019 was passed by the Lok Sabha Palampur, the Bharatiya Janata such historic agreement between and the . From August Party passed resolution supporting Tripura, Mizoram, and the central 1, 2019, instant Triple Talaq became the building a grand temple at the government got formalised. The a legal offense in the country. Over 8 Sri Ram Janmabhoomi in Ayodhya aggrement has not only solved the crore Muslim women of the country and remained fully committed to it. decades-old problem, but has also got the much awaited justice. Also, Shri LK Advani also took out a rath ensured a safe life for thousands of while the POCSO Act was amended yatra from Somnath to Ayodhya for Bru- Reang tribe. to protect child rights, the rights of this cause. After the verdict of the In the atmosphere created after bisexual persons were approved, Hon’ble Supreme Court, the Union partition, the Father of the Nation taking historic steps towards social Cabinet held a meeting headed by Mahatma Gandhi had said that justice. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ‘Hindus and Sikhs of Pakistan, The government built the on 5 February 2020, to discuss who do not want to live there, can Kartarpur Sahib Corridor in record issues related to Shri Ram Temple come to India. It is the duty of the time and dedicated it to the nation on as per the order of the Supreme Government of India to provide the occasion of the 550th Prakash Court, was prepared. As per the them a normal life.” It was our Parv of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. It is a orders of the Supreme Court, a responsibility to honor that wish of privilege for the country to get the resolution was passed to establish our nation builder. This was also

62 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 the call of humanity. The NDA the countrymen in every situation, already been increased from 182 government, led by Prime Minister every season, it is for the middle to 202 rupees. 2 percent discount Shri Narendra Modi, within one class of the country, which are has been given in the interest of year of its second term, enacted honestly pays its taxes, contributes borrowers of Mudra Shishu loan. A a citizenship amendment law, to the development of the country, loan of up to 10 thousand rupees liberated minorities from the Muslim it is for the Indian industry which has been arranged for street country of Pakistan, Afghanistan is determined to give a boost to vendors. and Bangladesh and freed them India’s economic power. ‘Provision The biggest achievement of from exploitation. This law also of Rs. 3 lakh crore loan for 4 years the year during the Corona Global entitled these minorties to obtain without guarantee for micro, small Pandemic by Prime Minister Shri Indian Citizenship with an ease. and medium industries sector is Narendra Modi is to unite 130 crore The entire world, including India, announced. 20 thousand crore people of the country and stand with is today in a critical situation due to rupees have been given to micro, the world and give the message the ill effects of the corona global of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ to epidemic. But under the leadership the world. The leadership that of Prime Minister Shri Narendra An economic Shri Narendra Modi has shown in Modi, India is moving ahead with package of Rs fighting the epidemic and managing the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat Campaign’ 20 lakh crores has people around him, was seen earlier to turn this moment of challenge also been announced in Mahatma Gandhi. Preparation of into an opportunity. ‘Atmanirbhar’ for ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat lockdown-1 with Janata curfew, is the core concept of Bharatiya Campaign’, which is about 10 preparing the nation’s mood for percent of the country’s GDP. Janata Party ideology. Pandit As the Prime Minister said, lockdown-2 with the national unity Deendayal Upadhyaya had said ‘This economic package is for by lighting the lamp, and then that India’s economic success is that labourer of the country, implementing lockdown-3 in a in the culture-oriented economy, for that farmer of the country controlled manner be done. But whose foundation is self-reliance. who is working day and this work can only be done with On 12 May 2020, Prime Minister Shri night for the countrymen the help of divine power. This divine Narendra Modi said in his address in every situation, power is rested in Prime Minister Shri that ‘As a nation today we stand at every season, for ... Narendra Modi. During this time, a very important juncture. Such a Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi big disaster has brought a signal to has emerged as a world leader by India… has brought a message… small and medium addressing the virtual conference has brought an opportunity. India’s industries trapped in the crisis. 90 of Non-Aligned countries and fundamental thinking has become thousand crore rupees have been leading the virtual conference a ray of hope for the world. The given to correct the situation of of G-20 countries. The world culture of India, the tradition of the distressed power distribution has appreciated his indomitable India, speak of the Idea whose soul companies. It has been decided to courage and amazing power to is Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. ‘He give loans of 4 lakh crores to small turn challenge into opportunity. has called on Indians to become farmers at concessional rates. The World Health Organization has self-sufficient. For this, ‘Atmanirbhar During the lockdown (March-April), handed over the chairmanship of Bharat campaign’ has also been 63 lakh loans were sanctioned for the Executive Board in the hands of announced. the agricultural sector, amounting Dr. Harsh Vardhan, a senior aide of An economic package of Rs to Rs 86,600 crore. Interest waiver Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s 20 lakh crores has also been has been given on farmers’ loans till cabinet and Union Health and announced for ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat 31 May 2020. Rs 11,000 crore has Family Minister. The future lies in Campaign’, which is about 10 been provided to the urban poor. the hands of the Indian leadership, percent of the country’s GDP. As the A provision of Rs 4200 crore has today it is the message of the whole Prime Minister said, ‘This economic been made for rural infrastructure. world. package is for that labourer of the Migrant laborers are being (The writer is BJP National Vice country, for that farmer of the country registered under MNREGA. The President and former MP) who is working day and night for minimum wage in MNREGA has

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 63 Modi-fyiNg good goverNaNce through art of iMPleMeNtatioN

performance of the last six years international organisations is a testimony. None other than confront struggle with the Prime Minister himself knows implementation of government dr. viNay it very well that good governance policies and schemes. India is sahasraBuddhe is also about mastering the art no exception to this rule. In India, of implementation. Ever since all these schemes were already he concept of good Prime Minister Narendra Modi under implementation for several governance is not came to power in 2014, the main years and in more than one form. T confined to formulation focus of the administration has They tried to address the most of well thought and planned been to formulate strategies for basic human needs such as a policies only. It is equally about efficacious delivery of the policies pucca house, with a toilet, and effective implementation. History and schemes that the government safe efficacious fuel to cook, is evidence to the fact that most has launched, particularly aimed affordable medicare, and an brilliant ideas and good policies, at socio-economic welfare. Infact, electric light in the household. unfortunately fail on the count of the massive mandate secured by Successive governments have implementation. Reviewed on this PM Modi in 2019 was the direct funnelled trillions of rupees but background, the performance of impact of effective implementation failed to make a dent into living Modi 2.0 makes a significant mark of these government schemes conditions so poor that even a as during just one year, this Govt aimed at bettering the life of the pucca house was a far- fetched has been able to implement key most deprived sections of the dream for millions of Indians. promises in with all dexterity at its society. Additionally, there has been an command. Article 370 that had As the Modi government upsurge of creativity in social prevented Jammu and Kashmir completes the initial months of entrepreneurship. Hundreds of from joining the mainstream of the second stint, it is pertinent start-ups have emerged with aspirational India is now a thing of to analyse the factors that innovative solutions for specific the past, through CAA, India has have helped such remarkable social problems. Yet, in India, discharged its tryst with Humanity implementation of these game- millions remained hungry, and while fighting with Covid-19, changing interventions, leading to unhealthy, poorly educated, the Govt has shown remarkable achieving most targets or at least without a roof and unemployed. alacrity in taking a comprehensive moving very close to them. While In sharp contrast to this view of protecting both, lives as even the World Bank launched its perennial problem, India’s recent well as livelihoods. And now, the ‘Science of Delivery’ to overcome success, particularly after 2014, Nation is gearing up resolutely obstacles in global development, in implementing its flagship to become self reliant through we believe that what was achieved socialwelfareschemes has been Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan! in a country as complex as India is quite astonishing. What is it that To those doubting Thomases more an ‘Art’ than mere science. changed so dramatically after and doomsayers who are 2014? always skeptical about the MODI-FYING GOOD GOVERNANCE What differed with the Modi led ability of the Govt to implement in inDiA government is the single-minded ambitious plans and schemes, Most countries and purposefulness with which these

64 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 table : Data as hard evidence of achievements

UPA nDA growth

Per Year Scheme Period Data points Per Year Scheme Period Data points Per Year (average)

Pradhan Mantri Indira Awas Yojana 89.65 lakh 22.41 lakh Awas Yojana 25.25 lakh 2.84 lakh 2010-14 2015-19 1.01 crore (housing) houses Houses – Gramin houses houses (PMAY-G)

Nirmal Bharat Abhiyaan 429.87 Lakh 85.97 lakh Swachh Bharat 2014- 10.89 crore 2.17 crore 1.31 crore 2009-14 (Toilets) IHHL built toilets Abhiyan 2019 IHHL built toilets toilets

34.08 lakh Swavalamban Scheme 17.71 lakh Atal Pension 1.54crore 38.5 lakh 2011-14 4.42 lakh 2015-19 pension (Pension Accounts) accounts Yojana accounts accounts accounts

No-Frills Accounts as per 16.9 crore 4.2 crore Jan Dhan 38.07 crore 7.6 crore 3.4 crore bank RBI Notification (Bank 2010-14 2014-19 accounts accounts Yojana accounts accounts accounts Accounts)

(Rural Electrification Rajiv Gandhi Gramin 28.8 lakh 1.63 crore 32.6 lakh component 61.4 lakh Vidyutikaran Yojana (Rural 2009-14 2014-19 3.07 crore houses households households of DDUGJY) households Electrification) electrified + Saubhagya Yojana

57.67 lakh 92.33 lakh Comprehensive skill 1.50 crore 2011-14 1.73 crore candidates 2014-19 4.52 persons training candidates skilled skilled

3.2 crore 1.6 crore 5.51 crore Direct Benefit Transfer-LPG 2013-14 Pahal 2014-19 24.76 72% households households households

Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Scheme 1361.7 2010-14 72 33.1 outlets Jan Aushadhi 2014-19 6085 1328 outlets (generic medicine outlets) outlets Yojana

91718 National Optical Fibre 1792.6 93510.2 2011-14 358 BharatNet 2014-19 374041 kilometers of Network kilometers kilometers fibre laid

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 65 schemes were ideated, fashioned assistance of various schemes Effective outreach and and implemented. They have led through these accounts.PMAY involvement: There was a to some stupendous successes. mandated convergence of structured attempt to generate The number of beneficiaries, the Swachh Bharat Mission, Ujjwala greater awareness about the quality and speed with which Yojana, and Saubhagya Yojana scheme/programme. This ensured the benefits were received and amongst others. wider outreach and participation accountability driven monitoring keen interest and deep of beneficiaries and local officials. mechanisms differentiate these insight of political Schemes like Swachh Bharat schemes from the earlier efforts. leadership: Leadership Mission (SBM) were structured Nothing brings this particular matters the most and hence a around behavioural change fact to the fore more effectively keen interest by the apex level which was a key differentiator than the hard evidence of leadership, coupled with creative from the previous attempts. achievements so far (Table ideas and ways and means Outreach leading to community below). Tableestablishes beyond for effective implementation acceptance and involvement was doubt that post 2014, in the case a pre requisite for its success. of several welfare schemes, the No scheme visualized passive number of beneficiaries has acceptance by the beneficiaries. seen an exponential growth Rather their intrinsic involvement There was a along with improved quality of through outreach including some structured attempt financial contribution has led to implementation. to generate greater sustained success and several awareness about the tHe Key iMPLeMentAtion scheme/programme. This spin off benefits. MAntrAs ensured wider outreach and Aggressive use of info- The architecture of participation of beneficiaries tech: Greater and more implementation that was and local officials. Schemes effective use of information thoughtfully adopted for a more like Swachh Bharat Mission technology, including ; among Result Oriented Approach, (SBM) were structured around other things a mechanism behavioural change which included the following key of 24 x 7 monitoring through was a key differentiator dashboards was a universal common threads/implementation from the previous feature. All schemes mentioned mantras to which we attribute the attempts. noteworthy success during 2014- above have been built on the 19: solid foundation of Information A unified comprehensive Technology based independent vision and design: While reporting and monitoring outwardly a particular scheme suggested adds to the platforms. Each scheme may appear as a standalone importance of the scheme or maintains frequently updated, scheme, in most cases it is a programme. Eventually that interactive robust websites with part of a more holistic approach seems to have played a key role a strong IT backbone. Such and hence a wider plan. This in effective implementation. The reporting narrowed the scope for has provided a greater sense comprehensive guidelines of all manipulation unlike paper based of purpose besides ensuring schemes tie up all loose ends to reporting. Added to that was a systemic integration of the ensure timely delivery right upto the unabashed enthusiastic use scheme. The ‘No frills accounts’ the final beneficiary. Frequent of private sector platforms like created by RBI, were transformed reviews/interactions of apex level google play-store for downloading into the Jan Dhan Yojana, with leadership with implementers and scheme related apps. It was a very long-term broad action beneficiaries to improve /add to these apps and mobile phone plan to provide direct financial the schemesindicated purposeful use that created an additional involvement of the leadership. glamour, sense of belonging and

66 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 accountability for the beneficiary. almost on daily or weekly basis. Prime Minister’s Awards for best Use of space, drone and The PFMS has brought in performance at various levels, state cutting-edge technologies: Use efficiencies, flexibility, monitoring level rankings of performance, of latest technologies, including capabilities and oversight in placing state /division/town space technology and drone, government spending. Weeding performance in the public domain has been the highlight of effective out of ghost/fake beneficiaries have provided public attention implementation. Geo-spatial has been an important collateral and created ownership of these tagging of assets created in benefit. In addition, processes schemes. PM and senior leaders PMAY or SBM has provided a like the centralized public highlighting these achievements tool for hard evidence of created grievance redressal system, in international fora brought a assets, a gap in several previous monitored regularly at the highest sense of achievement to those schemes. National remote levels created responsibility and who have been instrumental in sensing capacities and geo accountability through the entire implementing these schemes. spatial technologyharnessed hierarchy. Encouragingly, implementers through ISRO’s Bhuvanplatform buoyed by their success, appear provide unparalleled public keen to take further leaps in their access to asset information, respective missions/schemes/ uploading, synchronizing and A more effective projects. monitoring. transparency The Modi-led government mechanism —backed cultivated an art of implementation single-minded focus on by 100% evidence based transparency : A more decision-making —led hitherto never seen in the history effective transparency to credible selection of of this country. Applying these mechanism —backed by 100% beneficiaries and effective implementation mantras, it plugging of loopholes for evidence based decision- achieved astonishing results corruption. Adopting the direct of far-reaching consequences making —led to credible benefit transfer process for selection of beneficiaries and fund transfers in all schemes through its flagship welfare effective plugging of loopholes was a stroke of genius schemes. The key features for corruption. Adopting the which reduced pilferage of this implementation design direct benefit transfer process to almost zero. have been the single-minded for fund transfers in all schemes purposefulness at the apex level, was a stroke of genius which improved quality and extended reduced pilferage to almost reach of the coverage, targets zero. Dashboards of progress in Every scheme set to achieve time bound the public domain with ability to guidelines visualized a well results, evolution of a structured go down to the smallest unit of thought out and structured mechanism to ensure last mile delivery added to transparency. delivery hierarchy and mechanism delivery, and above all a evolving The PAHAL Scheme uses to monitor the progress of the a system for a literally 24x7 transparent IT based processes scheme or programme, ensuring monitoring of implementation to ensure removal of fake/ that the flawlessness of the where fudging of data is just not duplicate connections, subsidy implementation mechanism possible. This is a significant value and cylinders reach genuine remains intact, all along. added by the Modi Govt to public users, disincentives diversion and greater motivation of administration in India, making so on. implementers: The enhanced Good Governance a reality. stringent measures to ensure level of motivation of officials accountability: A robust and employees involved in (The writer is BJP National Vice mechanism of accountability implementation evolved a sense President, MP Rajya Sabha and ensured monitoring of progress of collective responsibility of Chairman, ICCR) implementation in Mission Mode.

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 67 Modi goverNMeNt’S StroNg iNitiative

intruders in the northeastern states, came in this year. The construction the disturbing Brahmaputra, the of the temple started in a very national unity, the Modi government smooth manner in the country also passed the CAA Citizenship without any extreme reaction or riot, shyaM JaJu Amendment Bill, taking a pivotal it has also created an atmosphere role on patriotism and the security of satisfaction in the whole country. he first year of the second of the nation. The attitude of the government term of the Modi government The subject of the triple talaq is very important for str engthening T is coming to an end. The law was also pending for years. the country’s economy and moving events that have happened and In Rajiv Gandhi’s tenure as the towards progress. Keeping this are happening in this year of 19/20 Prime Minister, the government, subject in mind, the steps taken by are going to surprise everyone. which used minorities for their own the government towards making The whole country is marching selfishness, insulted the court and the farmers of the country debt free towards Atmanirbhar Bharat under rejected the self-respect and farming related activities stand the leadership of Narendra Modiji on their own, are very important. To while battling a global epidemic like realize this government announced Corona. Many things credit of Rs 6000 in the bank However, this first year has have happened account of farmers, which was been much talked about with which no one had promised by the BJP in the election. many achievements. Many things The government has taken a strong even thought of earlier. have happened which no one step in the interest of farmers by Since independence, had even thought of earlier. Since fulfilling that too. Kashmir has been one independence, Kashmir has The steps taken by the of the most turbulent been one of the most turbulent government during the Corona regions due to continuous regions due to continuous are not only giving relief in times terrorism, religious terrorism, religious hysteria and of crisis, but at the same time it is hysteria and anti-national anti-national activities. There were also creating strong infrastructure. activities. There were discussions all over the country With this, the country will also be discussions all over about Article 370, the sacrifice of successful in moving towards the country about Dr. Shyamaprasad Mukherjee also self-sufficiency, this government took place due to this, but no one Article 370, the.. has taken such decisions. Health ever through that it will be solved infrastructure used to cost only with such promptness and a new 2 percent of the budget till date. dimension will be added to the unity and dignity of millions Taking the call of time and keeping of the country. The entire country is of Muslim sisters. This historic in mind the need of the country, witnessing the history which has bill was passed in the House there is no comparison to the been created by passing the bill and Muslim sisters were in every initiatives taken by the government. in both the houses despite being household’s role as a wife, sister or As a result of this, despite being a minority in the Rajya Sabha. in the responsibility of a daughter- so populated, India encounters This happened due to the strong in-law, now live with dignity. minimal damage due to Corona. initiative taken by country’s Home For years, the decision of Ram Compared to other affluent Minister Amit Shahji. Mandir, which is associated with the countries, the courage that the Keeping in mind the problem identity of the entire country, having Prime Minister of India Narendra of Assam, the emergence of the presence in every election, also Modiji has shown by taking the

68 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 decision on time, we are also able ‘One Nation-One Ration’ program. 100 lakh crore on infrastructure. to face this crisis and a different In the last term, the government Looking at the performance of five image of our country has been had done the work of making new years and seeing the beginning emerged in the world. laws by removing the old laws and of this first year, we have created In all decisions in the first year of making changes in the path of many new records. Along with the the government, there is a continuity progress by taking timely decisions. largest cricket stadium in the world, of one thing that the government That change had a positive impact the world’s largest health insurance has taken a very good initiative in in this year’s decisions. The dream scheme is also running in India. The the direction of empowering the of making system business friendly world’s largest solar park is being poor of the country and succeeded has been fulfilled by the online built in India, along with which the in taking the country towards self- initiative taken in India. largest sanitation program is going sufficiency. Through Skill India, The steps taken in this year, not on. the government has taken strong only enabled the entire system to India was ranked 142 in the ‘Ease steps to use manpower in the right become digital and transparent, of Doing Business’ ranking in 2014, direction by training unemployed but it also decreased the cost and reached on 63rd position in youth in the country. and became easier. There are 2019. India has recorded progress Through the MNREGA, the no middlemen left in the system, in 7 out of 10 prameters. The government has done remarkable this is a significant contribution of government has also taken steps job of reducing hunger by making the system transparent and towards creating new employment providing employment in the efficient. While speaking about this segment in MSME by creating villages. To provide ration to the budget, Prime Minister Modi has opportunity of self-employment. migrant labourers wherever they said that the economy of the country This first year of the second term are, the government has provided will be worth $ 5 trillion. In the has certainly been a very decisive the facility of getting ration to them budget, the government has made and paved way for progress. in the village by implementing the a provision to spend more than Rs Making remarkable progress in all fields, the work of increasing the pride and dignity of the country has also been done during this period. Shri Narendra Modi has created a new image of India in the world through his leadership. Today, even in the crisis time of Corona, American and other industrialists doing business in China are gradually seeing India as a potential contender for their business. It has been expressed by the American organization Advocacy Group that many companies have turned to India. Samsung has consolidated its business in China and expanded its plant in India. Sony has announced the closure of its plant in China. Apple has started its production unit in Bengaluru. So, we can say that the first year of the Modi government has definitely proved to be a pioneer in the progress of the country by setting a new record. (The writer is National Vice President, BJP)

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 69 welfare ScheMeS of Modi goverNMeNt for Scheduled caSte PeoPle

‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ package Provision of Rs 536 crore for of Rs 20 lakh crore for financially providing relief to victims and setting strengthening every region of the up state-of-the-art call centers under country and turn the Covid-19 crisis PCR and POA Act. dushyaNt into an opportunity. In this more Due to the removal of Article 370 kuMar GautaM and more scheduled castes will get in Jammu and Kashmir under the benefits through various schemes. leadership of the respected Prime elfare Schemes for Under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Minister Modi ji, the Scheduled Scheduled Caste people on Yojana, 6.8 crore LPG cylinders have Castes (mostly sweepers), who lived w the completion of one year been given free of cost to 8 crore there from generations, were not of Modi Government 2.0 under the beneficiaries from mid-April to May in allowed common rights, today they dynamic leadership of Hon’ble Prime which most of the people belong to have got them. Now, their residence Minister Shri Narendra Bhai Modi SC / ST category. This scheme has certificates, caste certificates etc. have brought huge change in their are being issued and they are condition. taking advantage of all government Under the Pradhan Mantri Yojana, schemes. Under the the Modi government is extending Under the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ Pradhan Mantri various types of welfare schemes to package, the street vendors are Ujjwala Yojana, 6.8 all eligible beneficiaries of the country. also facilitated in which most of crore LPG cylinders Today, not only India, but the whole them belong to scheduled castes have been given world is struggling with this Covid-19 community. A special credit facility free of cost to 8 crore epidemic i.e. Coronavirus. In the time of Rs 5000 crores has been provided of this crisis of Covid-19, the Prime beneficiaries from mid- for them. The scheme will support Minister Shri Narendra Modi is taking April to May in which most around 5 million street vendors. tremendous steps to give relief to the of the people belong to SC / According to the ‘Atmanirbhar people. Under the leadership Modi ST category. This scheme Bharat’ package, there is a provision ji, the country’s economy remains has proved to be a boon of ‘One Nation-One Ration Card’ strong even during the crisis of for scheduled caste to empower the poor, migrant Covid-19. India’s foreign exchange families living in labourers, many of whom are from reserves rose by 1.73 billion dollar rural areas. the Scheduled Castes category and to 487.04 billion dollar. Today, even those who are non-card holders will during this crisis, it is a matter of great be given 5 kg of wheat / rice and 1kg honour and pride for the countrymen proved to be a boon gram per family. with Modi government minister i.e for scheduled caste families living in The removal of Article 370 in Health Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan is rural areas. Jammu and Kashmir under the unanimously appointed the Chairman Under the Pradhan Mantri Adarsh leadership of the respected Prime of the Executive Board of the World Gram Yojana, about 9500 villages Minister Modi ji, the Scheduled Health Organization (WHO). Today, of Scheduled Castes are covered Castes (mostly sweepers), who under the leadership of Modi ji, and the scheme is extended to an lived there from generations, did India is in a better position in view of additional 3584 villages. not have common rights, today Covid-19 by taking the right decision 50% capital subsidy for projects they have got them. Regardless of at the right time, and India’s recovery up to Rs.5 lakhs related to sanitation how educated a person belongs rate is at the top. for the target group to promote to the scheduled caste community The Modi government has done mechanized cleaning of sewers and from Jammu and Kashmir, whether a wonderful job by announcing septic tanks introduced. he becomes a doctor, whether he

70 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 becomes an engineer, but in Jammu Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Vocal for Pradesh, orange in Maharashtra etc. and Kashmir, he was employed as a Local with Global’. Unorganized are the need of hour. sweeper, they were not only deprived Micro Food Enterprises (MFEs) With the promotion of herbal from benefit of reservation, but even units need technical upgrading farming our scheduled caste they were denied of general rights to achieve FSSAI food community will get full benefits and and they were subject of so much their dream of self-reliant industries exploitation. Today the Modi-led along with which employment will be government has removed Article 370 ensured. and the Scheduled Castes have got The Hindu To promote entrepreneurship general rights along with the benefits (Scheduled Castes) of scheduled castes, the Modi of reservation. living in Pakistan, were government has announced loans Today, the Scheduled Caste suffering from atrocities, from 10 lakh to 1 crore. community has also benefitted exploitation and their Under the Standup India Scheme, greatly from the CAA Act introduced families were tortured. the Modi government has made by the Government of India under They are now benefited women businessmen belonging to the leadership of Modi ji. The Hindu with CAA Act. Today, under the Scheduled Castes self-reliant and (Scheduled Castes) living in Pakistan, the leadership of Modi self-sufficient by arranging a bank were suffering from atrocities, ji, the Scheduled Caste loan of 1 crore rupees. exploitation and their families were community is feeling Under the Ayushman Yojana tortured. They are now benefited with completely safe. scheme, Modi government providing CAA Act. Today, under the leadership health insurance of upto 5 lakhs to of Modi ji, the Scheduled Caste each beneficiary under the Pradhan community is feeling completely safe. Mantri Ayushman Yojana, in which the A package of Rs 10,000 Crore standards, brand building entire Scheduled Castes community for Formalization of Micro Food and marketing. Cluster based has got full benefits. Enterprises has been announced. approaches like Mango in UP, This scheme enhances the Hon’ble Tomato in Karnataka, Chilli in Andhra (The writer is MP Rajya Sabha and National Vice President, BJP)

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 71 a year of deliveriNg oN ProMiSeS

the Valley. it was widely welcomed by the The mandate of the people was people who reposed their faith in hugely in favour of Modi Sarkaar as this government. BaiJayaNt ‘Jay’ they got on the streets to celebrate After the Supreme Court verdict PaNda this abrogation, as well as the on Ayodhya, the government process to give rights to people of proactively constituted the Ram year has passed since Ladakh by declaring it a separate Janambhoomi Trust to fulfil the the thumping victory of Union Territory. Much recently, grand dream of chores of Indians. a Bharatiya Janata Party the domicile rules were rejigged This sheer determination to deliver on May 23, 2019, with a bigger to give a ray of hope to many SC what you promise epitomises the mandate than it got in 2014. communities and refugees, who present government, as it formed I’ve keenly observed and written gave their blood and sweat but a significant point of the election about the work done by the Modi awaited basic manifesto. government over the past 6 years rights. After a period of unbridled and have no hesitation in saying success, the biggest challenge that that the fundamental changes confronted this government came brought in will have a lasting, The big bang reform in the form of a pandemic, which positive effect. came in the decision is slowing but becoming a part of Since the beginning of this to abrogate Article 370 our lives now. Just when countries term, the government is geared of the Indian Constitution, with high economic potential gave towards reform-based policies the sole Article with the up their fight against the disease and decisions awaited by the word “Temporary” attached due to rising cases and mortality populace for decades. If one to it. The irony being, this rates, the farsightedness and zeal temporary lasted for about 70 reflects back on this term, it can of PM Shri Narendra Modi mixed years, curtailing basic human undoubtedly be compared to rights, access to justice, with his power of exhortation a roller-coaster of a year filled opportunities, and promoted were at the finest display. with surprises. With the passage terrorism and enhanced the Averting the calamity was of the historic Triple Talaq Bill in illicit wealth of a select his focus with timely graded and the Indian Parliament, the promise few families in the preemptive measures, starting made to Muslim women to end Valley. January. The government stopped this discriminatory practice (which incoming flights from China, the is even banned in major Islamic source of the Corona virus that nations) was fulfilled. This also originated in Wuhan, and ensured enlightened further discussions for Fast- tracking that it doesn’t spread as rapidly with a Uniform Civil Code in the country. Citizenship for persecuted the Janata Curfews and Lockdowns. The big bang reform came in Minorities of three neighbouring This was crucial to nip it in the bud the decision to abrogate Article countries, namely Bangladesh, and avoid a major catastrophe. 370 of the Indian Constitution, Afghanistan and Pakistan was a The result is evident; the Health the sole Article with the word turning point of this Government’s Ministry reported that almost 216 “Temporary” attached to it. The grit to deliver what it promises. districts are Corona free, and irony being, this temporary lasted Again, this was a long pending 60,490 patients recovered taking for about 70 years, curtailing basic promise to the nation, to bind it the recovery rate up to 41.61% as human rights, access to justice, together. Though some sections I write this. 80% of the cases are opportunities, and promoted tried to foster outrage by twisting restricted to five cities. Several terrorism and enhanced the illicit facts, portraying half-baked experts and the Government did wealth of a select few families in ‘theories’ and fear-mongering, a statistical analysis of lockdown

72 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 impact and a collective analysis and demand. After the 1991 deduced COVID-19 cases averted liberalisation reforms, India hasn’t to be in the range of 14-29 lakh The big bang witnessed such avant-garde and lives saved in the range of economic stimulus measures. International players 37,000-78,000. A demonstration of of INR 20,00,000 Crore, praised the Indian Government’s democratic values is seen in this almost 10% of the GDP is economic package lauding it as management. a game-changer when most the right dose to fix the economic The big bang economic downturn. Be it rural or urban, opposition leaders demanded stimulus of INR 20,00,000 immediate cash transfers to the 5%-6% of fiscal support. PM’s Crore, almost 10% of the GDP bottom of the pyramid, or new emphasis on self-reliance, is a game-changer when most policies to help MSME’s and aimed at igniting national opposition leaders demanded big industries, a street vendor consciousness to be vocal for 5%-6% of fiscal support. PM’s or a farmer all sections have the local is the new mantra emphasis on self-reliance, aimed been taken care of under this of life now with the grand at igniting national consciousness package. Special attention has ‘Atmanirbhar to be vocal for the local is the new been paid to healthcare workers mantra of life now with the grand Abhiyaan.’ insurance, healthcare supplies and ‘Atmanirbhar Abhiyaan.’ production of PPE kits, testing kits Successive announcements etc. Naysayers might not credit by the Finance Minister laid the it for obvious reasons but, deep foundation of this Abhiyaan, a total relying on 5 pillars, the big down even they know that if anyone of five tranches of this package ones being economy, infrastructure had the political resolve to save India from a pandemic and an economic slowdown, it was Shri Narendra Modi and his able government. Nevertheless, a big change awaits the world in coming years, the pandemic has undoubtedly affected the economic activity, but this government will not stop till we revive the economy and reach new heights. Equally, the Prime Minister’s leadership has led India to achieve much goodwill in the worlds, particularly during this pandemic. That will surely only grow in the coming years, and be a key component of India’s future trajectory. In the meantime, each and every supporter plays a pivotal role in ensuring the success of a New India, which is in the process of transforming the destinies of 130 crore Indians. (The writer is National Vice President and Spokesperson of BJP)

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 73 Self reliaNce - Path for 21St ceNtury iNdia seldom can be applied everywhere. It the role that India should perform in is neither desirable too. the 21st century world. Hence, he India as well is passing through appealed to 138 crore Indians to Muralidhar an unprecedented crisis situation utilize this as an opportunity in making rao with a health emergency on one hand 21st century to India’s century. and an economic disruption on the In an exceptionally bold manner, ankind has witnessed other. As it’s leader, Prime Minister he announced the Rs 20 lakh crore several calamities and Narendra Modi ji has steered the Aatmanirbhar Bharat package, m catastrophes. Earthquakes, nation adeptly and remarkably during which is about 10 percent of India’s epidemics, wars and so on. But in the Covid crisis as well as before it. GDP. This package was framed an unprecedented manner Covid His framework and action plan for keeping the objectives of 21st 19 pandemic has loomed all over containing and combating Covid was century India well in mind. Instead the world as a crisis of gigantic unique and extra ordinary. The high of confining to requirements of two proportions, with almost all parts of recovery rates and low mortality rates or three sectors or welfare needs, the world and the entire human race speak volumes regarding the strategy he addressed this bigger aspiration severely affected. Throughout the gaining success. without compromising. Disregarding course of history, many pandemic Narendra Modi ji also took existing shibboleths, he founded it on outbreaks have ravaged humanity, the initiative in bringing together 5 pillars of Economy, Infrastructure, like Cholera, Plague etc. But global the South Asian nations aimed at Technology, Demography and integration and increased mobility deriving a consolidated response Demand. He asserted on an among nations have made Covid one to the pandemic. A similar initiative economy of future which doesn’t talk of the largest pandemics faced ever, of taking the world leaders into of incremental change but quantum with 55 lakh cases reported in around confidence and imploring them to jump. The package focused on 188 countries, resulting in nearly 3.5 take responsibilities could create a land, labour, liquidity and laws. He lakh deaths. common programme for the world in stressed on infrastructure becoming Covid 19, along with creating a the interest of mankind. the identity of modern India. huge health crisis, has also caused The response from government Realising the new context of post a global disruption unseen before. to the woes of most vulnerable Covid world and India’s aspirations Never the world had such levels of sections during the Covid crisis was of 21st century, he enunciated the economic integration before, both at instant. A 1.7 lakh crore Garib Kalyan concept of vocal for local. Self reliance the supply as well as demand sides. package was announced in the early is the core of India’s economic Therefore the disruption is also more stage itself, which provided support policy. Prime Minister asserted that intense and extensive. to 39 crore people, especially our model of self reliance should The world faces twin challenges through direct money transfer. RBI in rebuild it’s definitions. Self reliance of a massive scale. First, it has to March as well as April initiated sets doesn’t mean self centeredness. It is combat Covid19 successfully, with of emergency measures for cash driven by the principle of Vasudaiva minimum human loss. Second, it infusion and easing liquidity upto 8 Kutumbakam. This outlook of self has to keep the economy moving lakh crores. reliance needs to be inculcated in and restore it as early as possible. Narendra Modi ji’s approach to the the agenda of both the nation and Policy makers and leaders of nations situation was unique and exemplary. society. are confronted with unique challenge He urged people to realize the After coming to power in 2014, of tackling both together, effectively. challenge and thereby convert it into by transcending from an ecosystem Responses to health challenges may an opportunity. The response to the steeped in corruption and policy have broad common grounds across challenge should be superior to the paralysis to a transparent and nations. But for an economic revival threat, is his line of thinking. The vision corruption free governance, Narendra a single model designed somewhere of his government had been realising Modi ji laid the foundations for 21st

74 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 century India’s aspirations. Within of the world. India is the only nation to provides second largest employment few months the government could claim uninterrupted global economic after agriculture and 40 percent of open global record breaking number leadership for more than 1700 years. India’s exports. Revised definition of of bank accounts through Jandhan Our share to world GDP from AD 1 MSME, collateral free automatic loans Yojna and altered the paradigm to 1700 was highest at 32.9 percent worth Rs.3 lakhs, equity infusion of of financial inclusion. With more and lowest at 24.4 percent. China’s Rs.50000, exclusive participation than 38.5 crore beneficiaries and GDP share to the world was highest in tenders upto Rs.200 crores and a balance of Rs.1.35 lakh crores, ever at 26.1 percent and lowest many more measures were taken for Jandhan Yojna was one of the initial ar 22.3 percent. The core of Modi empowering the sector and thereby steps taken towards the larger goal. ji’s aspiration lies here. Based on furthering the nation’s aspirations. This has facilitated schemes like PM this, since 2014 he has built the Watershed demarcation will Kisan Samman Nidhi, through which foundations and given shape to the distinguish pre Covid and post Rs.6000 will be directly transferred to aspiration of 5 trillion dollar economy. Covid health sector of India. A 360 bank accounts of farmers every year A self-reliant India also means degree transformation covering as a minimum income support. As part widening the security aspects of health infrastructure, Swachh of Covid relief, 8.19 crore beneficiary the nation. Security no longer will Bharat, Ayushman Bharat, AYUSH farmers received an installment of Rs be confined to defence, but will etc is indispensable. Increasing 2,000. A digitised leak proof system include wider areas life expectancy, reducing mortality, for Direct Benefit Transfer was the handling pandemics and making much needed firm foundation for the A India health destination of the nation’s onward march. self-reliant world is fundamental to fulfil 21st Insuring the uninsured through India also century India aspirations. A large various insurance schemes is another means widening the work force of health professionals, significant aspect of the strong security aspects of immense capacity for innovation foundation being laid. Important the nation. Security no and production of bulk drugs have longer will be confined to schemes include PM Jeevan Jyoti already placed India upfront in the defence, but will include Bima Yojna, PM Suraksha Bima Yojna, wider areas like food Covid fight. Ayushman Bharat Yojna. Over 65 security and health During the 1965 war, owing to lakh patients have availed treatment security. Reforms and shortage of food, Lal Bahadur Shastri under Ayushman Bharat Yojna. PM programmes as gave the call for sacrificing one meal Shram Yogi MaanDhan Yojna ensures envisaged by the a day. It helped India stand back on protection through pension for a huge Aatmanirbhar its foot. In 2020, when we embarked section of people from unorganized Bharat upon the Covid fight, India was not sector, whose monthly income is less manufacturing PPE or N95 masks. than Rs.15000. PM Kisan MaanDhan like food security But within 60 days, we have become Yojna ensures similar pension to and health security. Reforms and the second largest PPE manufacturer small and marginal farmers, for which programmes as envisaged by the with 4.5 lakh pieces produced a around 20 lakh farmers have already Aatmanirbhar Bharat plan comprises day. Whenever this nation faces a registered. 1.12 lakh houses have it. The government could achieve self challenge and has an able leader to been constructed under PM Awas reliance in food grains and become guide, it has bounced back with more Yojna. Under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan the top producer of milk in the world. vigour and strength. After becoming 10 crore toilets were built. Farmers Oilseeds, pulses and blue revolution a free nation in 1947 and long income doubling will be achieved by finds thrust in our unfinished journey debates in the Constituent assembly, 2022. to food security. Rs.1 lakh crore agri India decided to create an egalitarian Narendra Modi ji has given the infrastructure fund, Rs.2 lakh crore society based on equity. The concept nation the dream of a 5 trillion dollar credit boost through Kisan Credit of Aatmanirbhar Bharat is based on economy. The firm foundations laid Card, Rs.30000 crore additional this unfinished dream of our freedom so far and the initiatives for self- emergency working capital fund and fighters, founding fathers and leaders reliance are all linked to the coherent a string of measures will enhance our who dedicated their lives to build a objective of bringing back India’s efforts in achieving food security. glorious India. glory again. PM has recalled how MSME sector, the backbone (The writer is National General-Secretary India was once the ‘Sone ki Chidiya’ of India’s decentralised economy, of BJP)

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 75 welfare of the Poor iS the MiSSioN

first time in 2014, the problem of its policy efforts to overcome it. economic disparity was complex. In the government’s vision, the The gap between the rich and resolutions of Antyodaya were BhuPeNder the poor was much larger than clear. The feeling of poor welfare yadav it is today. The standard of living was paramount. Prime Minister of the poor was not rising up to Shri Modi stated clearly, “Our oday, when the central the standards. The main reason government is dedicated to the government is completing for this was the predominance of poor welfare.” Thus the government T the first year of its second economic disparity. In a way, it started the making of policies to term under the leadership of reach the people standing at the Prime Minister Shri Narendra last mile of the society based Modi, the country is fighting a On on the concept of Antyodaya of formidable disaster in the form of August 28, 2014, Deen Dayal Upadhyay. COVID-19. Even the developed Prime Minister Despite more than six and a and resource-rich countries of Shri Narendra Modi half decades of independence, the world have laid their arms in launched the ‘Pradhan a large population of the country front of this epidemic. However, could not even become a Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana’ due to the visionary leadership part of the banking system. under which accounts of the of Prime Minister Shri Narendra This population was of poor, Modi, India has been fighting poor sections of society were backward, deprived sections against it with full force by opened. Through this, the of the country. They were minimizing the ill effects of this government did a big job of denied mainstream economic epidemic. incorporating the poor of the activities for decades. On The vision of poor welfare country into the mainstream August 28, 2014, Prime Minister and the objective of establishing of the economic system. Shri Narendra Modi launched an egalitarian society were Under this scheme, more the ‘Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan mainly present at the center of than 35 crore accounts Yojana’ under which accounts the policies of the first tenure were opened in the of the poor sections of society of the Modi government, that country. were opened. Through this, even continued in the second the government did a big job term. In the last two months, the of incorporating the poor of government seems to be working would b e the country into the mainstream with the same vision amidst the fair to say that the economic of the economic system. Under challenge posed by COVID 19. disparity was a major hurdle in this scheme, more than 35 crore Along with dealing with this crisis, the overall development of the accounts were opened in the the Modi government is taking all country. As decades of ongoing country. But the opposition then possible measures to support the economic disparity strengthened ridiculed the scheme for not poor, backward and labourers of social inequality. fixing this was realizing the far-reaching benefits, the country. a major challenge before the but over time it has become clear When the Modi government new government in 2014. The that the scheme has proved to be came to power at the Center for the Modi government first started extremely effective in empowering

76 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 the poor of the country and the Modi government ensured that there is no injustice to any section bringing transparency at the level equal opportunities are available of the society. of governance. to all in the society. Along with Apart from this, keeping in Under all government schemes, the interests of the Scheduled mind the interests of women, the amount given to the poor, Castes and Scheduled Tribes, the government announced the farmers, etc. is now directly the government has taken steps Ujjwala scheme on 1 May 2016, passed on to them through these like giving constitutional status under which free gas connections accounts without the intervention to the Other Backward Classes were provided to poor women of of middlemen. Even in the time Commission, ending interviews in the country, 8 crore women in 715 of this crisis, when the lockdown class 3 and 4 post in government districts of the country got gas caused economic problems for jobs and ensuring 10 percent connections under this scheme. the workers and the farmers of reservation for the general class Also, through the schemes such as the country, the work of providing on economic grounds to give Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao, Sukanya financial assistance directly to their tangible shape Samriddhi, etc., it not only brought accounts was immediately done sophistication in social thinking under this system. According to towards women but also provided a figure, between March 24 and them opportunities to move April 17, an amount of Rs. 36659 Bharatiya forward. The government has also crore has been sent to the taken steps towards providing accounts of 16 crore people. Janta Party does not skill training to the disabled. If the government had not work for class struggle in Bharatiya Janta Party does opened the bank accounts the society, we work for the not work for class struggle in of these people through Jan all-round development of the the society, we work for the Dhan Yojana in 2014, it would society. all-round development of never have been possible to The way of class struggle is the society. The way of class distribute such huge amount being adopted by left parties, struggle is being adopted by of assistance to the poor and BJP’s ideology based on integral left parties, BJP‘s ideology deprived sections on such human philosophy also teaches based on Integral human a large scale and with such philosophy also teaches us us that no person is speed and transparency. Apart that no person is small or big in from this, through schemes like small or big in society, society, all are equal. This vision Mudra Yojana, Pradhan Mantri all are equal. emerges in the policies and plans Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana, of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Ayushman, the government has Modi and his government. Whether tried to protect the interests of the it is the first five-year term of the weaker sections of the society by government or this one-year term, empowering them. to the real concept of or the functioning of the government There has been a lot of politics justice. The BJP government during the current Covid disaster, done in the country in the name of stood with complete readiness the aim of the government has social justice, but the intention to with reservation provided for the been to take all the citizens of the implement it in the true sense was SC, ST and backward sections of country together on the road of not among those who did politics the society. At the same time, the progress by giving opportunity to on it. Those who were indulging in government took the bold decision the people and communities who the vote bank politics in the name to give 10 percent reservation are lagging behind and craft India, of social justice, only shaped it into to the economically backward a country, society with a happy, ‘casteism’, whereas for BJP, social sections of the society without prosperous and equitable spirit. justice has meant ‘Sabka Saath, reducing the rights of anyone. Sabka Vikas’ without affecting Narendra Modi’s government has (The writer is National General anyone’s rights. At the policy level, fully committed itself to ensure that Secretary, BJP)

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 77 Math aNd effect of Modi Package

total $17.42 trillion, of which state spend on its account. owned banks’ share is just 8 per A less known fact is more cent. Banks assets of the entire EU relevant now. Global rating agencies is $47.6 trillion. And G7’s total banks consider the credit risk of Indian s GuruMurthy assets is $86.4 trillion. The combined public sector banks as contingent stock market capitalisation of G7 liability in their sovereign rating of countries is close $60 trillion. Despite the Indian government. A Moody’s he Modi stimulus package the huge bank funds and stock report said in 2016 that unprovided is in three parts — direct market access, G7 nations do not bad loans cause contingent liabilities T government spend, bank borrow a farthing from the banks or to crystallise on the government’s credit, and rate cut and lending by stock markets; they instead resort to balance sheet. This virtually erases RBI to banks. Modi’s detractors printing notes for the Covid package. the dividing line between government damn the package saying the bank That G7 nations do not borrow from guaranteed credit in the package and credit part of the package is large and banks for their package or access credit not guaranteed by government. the government share is insignificant. stock markets, but print notes, is The entire bank credit part of the Modi But their criticism is founded on poor hidden in the Indian discourse on the package, whether guaranteed or not understanding of the Indian financial Modi package. by government, is sovereign risk. The model and the fiscal relationship government’s direct spend and bank between state-owned banks and the COVID-19 BANK CREDITS ARE credit, a sovereign risk, constitute 62 government. Comparing the Modi eqUALLy GovernMent risK per cent of the Modi package — the package with those of the Group of India is a total contrast. In India, RBI liquidity window constituting the Seven (G7) nations is also irrational almost half the savings go into bank remaining 38 per cent. as the Indian banking model differs deposits and 70 per cent of it into vastly from G7’s. Unless this vast state owned banks. And only 2.5 tWin PUrPose oF MoDi difference is understood, the logic per cent of financial savings get PAcKAGe: intent AnD AiM behind the Modi package math into stocks, which is significant for The Modi package has a logical cannot be appreciated. foreign financial entities investing intent and an equally clear aim. Its in India. The main driver of the explicit intent is to provide for the no bAnK LenDinG in G7, onLy Indian financial system is the banks, deprived and disturbed through note PrintinG more specifically public sector direct fiscal spend from the budget. The US, which sets the philosophy banks. Public sector banks have His Covid-19 relief target seems and rules for global finance, has but to finance the Central government, clearly defined and ordered - the one insignificant state-owned bank. state governments and also Indian distant poor first, the middle group The total US bank assets is $20.4 business. Borrowings by Central next, and then the rest. And the aim is trillion. The state owned bank’s and state governments have been to restart the economy with the relief share is less than 0.03 per cent. In crowding out Indian business from measures itself. This twin purpose is the UK, of the total bank assets of banks, forcing them to borrow from self evident from the package. $10 trillion, the share of the only one abroad through external commercial Modi promised on March 26 to state-owned — but not state-run — borrowings —which is a huge risk to double the entitlement of grains to 80 bank is 8.6 per cent. In France, of the the economy. For the current year, crore poor people for the next three total bank assets amounting to $8.3 state and Central government loan months. In April itself, 36 states had trillion, the share of a state-owned demand on banks will be 60 per cent lifted 67.65 lakh tonnes of food grains bank is just 2.6 per cent. In Germany, more than the deposits they added. for delivery to the beneficiaries. He which has a unique financial model, There is no way the two governments promised free gas cylinders for bank assets total $9.16 trillion, of could borrow more from banks. That 8 crore people for the next three which the public sector bank’s share is why the Modi government has to months. Out of 509 lakh requests is 26 per cent. Japan’s bank assets limit its borrowing for direct Covid-19 booked, 482 lakh cylinders have

78 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 been already delivered. Through the and debt relief of Rs 75,000 crore to The MSMEs do not bother 38 crore Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan NBFCs, and Rs 6,500 crore loans for whether credit is guaranteed or Yojana (PMJDY) bank accounts, street vendors and Mudra loanees not, as long as it comes. The real the Modi government reached Rs — all for MSMEs — totalling to Rs 5 challenge for the government is to 16,394 crore to farmers, Rs 10,295 lakh crore. Food for migrant workers, ensure that the promised credit is crore to women, Rs 1,405 crore provision for fishermen, animal delivered. Modi has been strategic in to the old, widowed and disabled husbandry, micro food processing, conceptualising and communicating and Rs 3,492 crore to 3.5 crore amounting to Rs 49,000 crore his package. Yechury says it is all for construction workers registered with and another Rs 40,000 crore for the rich, when there is nothing at all the government, who constitute most MGNREGA, all for the poor, adding for the rich! Even as Chidambaram of the migrant labour. up to Rs 89,000 crore. For the farming says it is an empty sheet, Modi has The March 26 announcement class, Rs 330 lakh as agriculture loan actually delivered relief to the most. also offered those earning less than and agri infra. And Rs 50,000 Rs 15,000 per month in MSMEs (with crore tax not tHe FinAL WorD on less than 100 employees) 25 per cent stiMULUs PAcKAGe of their wages for three months; to Now, a couple of good news. organised sector employees a non- Women beneficiaries into whose refundable advance equal to 75 Food for account over Rs 10,000 crore had per cent of their wages for three migrant workers, been delivered, have withdrawn months; and to the MGNREGA less than half of it, indicating poor a rise of Rs 20 in the daily provision for fishermen, there is no extreme deprivation pay out. The government animal husbandry, micro due to lockdown. Another could deliver all the relief good news is the PMJDY without leakage because food processing, amounting accounts have shown of the architecture it had to Rs 49,000 crore and surge in deposits during created through PMJDY another Rs 40,000 crore for lockdown. Between April 1 and Aadhaar linkage, which and 7, deposits went up by enabled the beneficiary to MGNREGA, all for the poor, Rs 8,000 crore. And by May take cash from any ATM adding up to Rs 89,000 15, it further rose by Rs 8,000 or other authorised person crore — a total of Rs 16,000 through use of biometrics. crore. For the farming crore in 45 days of lockdown. Imagine India being struck class, Rs 330 lakh as In comparison, during the by corona without the 38 crore agriculture loan and whole of 2019, PMJDY savings bank accounts of the poor and had risen only by Rs 26,000 crore. Aadhaar! agri infra. In a way it is bad news — but not After March 26, Modi made the that bad — that they are saving and nation wait with bated breath on his not spending and to that extent there next Covid-19 package. Till then he is no demand. was talking about everything except Finally, will the Modi package the package. On May 12, after the deduction at source deferment, so far be the final one? Unlikely. expectation heightened, came his Rs 9,550 crore PF payment by The Covid-19 challenge continues. dramatic announcement increasing government and Rs 70,000 crore No one knows how much further the package to Rs 20 lakh crore — housing loan, for the middle class damage it can cause. That is why most of it to restart the economy. The — Rs 1,29,550 crore. Even as his Modi seems to have kept the powder excitement he generated was kept detractors keep issuing statements dry for doing as a last resort what the alive for the next five days by Finance that he had not spent from the G7 is doing. A hint has come from the Minister Nirmala Sitharaman mixing government’s pocket — where there RBI governor that he has not taken a reliefs with reforms. The five-day is nothing really to spend from — call as yet on monetisation of deficit show was also well rehearsed. but only from the banks, Modi has -- namely government borrowing It had Rs 3 lakh crore collateral actually delivered relief to his target from RBI. Right strategy indeed.. free loan, Rs 50,000 crore equity and audience by naming each of them (The writer is Eminent columnist on Rs 20,000 crore subordinated debt and calling their attention. political, economic issues & Editor, Thuglak)

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 79 vocal to local aNd froM local to gloBal iS the Motto Covid-19 has shaken the economic self-sufficient in the field of PPE and condition of many countries, Modiji mask manufacturing. Where in the aNuraG thakur by giving a package of 21 Lakh country PPE and masks were not crores for the poor, farmers and manufactured at all, India is now small entrepreneurs of the country, manufacturing 5 Lakh PPE kits and has done a good job of national self- 5 lakh masks-95 every day. he first measure of the reliance and an given an infallible In this hour of crisis, the central prosperity of any country mantra. government gave priority to human T mostly depends on the At the beginning of the second security by keeping all the schemes relationship between the government innings of the government, many aside, in which a step was taken and the public. The relationship such big decisions were taken which to stop the spread of Corona between the government and made it clear to the country that infection by putting a lockdown, at the public should be that of the how will be this tenure of the Modi the same time feeding the poors commander and the servant rather government. Just as the run rate is of the country were taken care of. than the king and the subjects. We kept high by setting goals during the The central government by taking are proud that our country does not opening in a cricket match, on the over the management of the food have a Prime Minister but a Prime same lines, Union Home Minister grains, is working to deliver a total Servant who has tirelessly served Shri Amit Shah displayed a brilliant of 25 kg of grain (wheat or rice) and 137 crores Indians for the last 6 batting on the pitch as Team Modi’s 5 kg of pulses to all 80 crore people years with full devotion, honesty and Opening batsman. Sections 370 for 5 months. The lockdown also fidelity. and 35 (A), which had become a created problems for the class, who Prime Minister Narendra canker for the country, were treated went from one state to another in Damodardas Modiji, who has been with such a panacea that no one search of livelihood. Providing rice, devoted to service, industriousness had imagined. For Muslim women, wheat and pulses for two months to and welfare for five years, took the strict law was made on the cursed 8 crore such migrant workers were oath of office and secrecy as Prime triple divorce to free them from the started. The Central Government Minister once again on May 30, chains of slavery. Modiji had set also took care of migrant workers 2019. Instead of I feeling, only with the goal of India’s renovation in the returning home besides their food. the we feeling one can meet the second term. For this, a blueprint And for this, the Indian Railways is public criteria. After becoming the has been prepared for foreign working by plying Shramik Express Prime Minister of the country, Shri capital investment, infrastructure to transport lakhs of workers to Narendra Modi has changed even development and development of their homes. 85 percent of the fare the definition of the scepter. With rural areas in the country. But even of the workers is being paid by the the transparent policy and public the first quarter was not yet complete Central Government, besides, food welfare works, the atmosphere when the global pandemic Covid-19 and water is being provided to the of political trust in the public was knocked the door. The whole world workers during the journey by the created. This is the result of the is struggling with this crisis. But Central Government. Workers play same that BJP could win more since the leadership of India was in an important role in the renovation seats than before in the 2019 Lok the capable hands of a person like of the country, so the central Sabha election. The second term Modiji, we were less affected with this government is taking care of them of the Modi government started epidemic than other countries. India at every level. A budget of one lakh with challenges. But our Prime has a very low infection and death one thousand crores has been set Minister with his honest thinking rate due to the visionary decision by the Central Government under and a sense of national interest took of Modiji, despite the fact that India MNREGA to provide employment to these challenges as an opportunity. has more population than world’s the workers after they return home. In the midst of the global economic 15 most corona affected countries. The government has increased the downturn, the global epidemic Corona has created opportunities for wages under MNREGA from Rs 182 us with challenge. We have become per day to Rs 202 per day. All this

80 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 was done by the government so that of these efforts, the government 28% (approx.) to GDP and 40 % the workers do not face economic has announced a package of Rs. 1 to the total export, in terms of its crisis. In this time of Corona crisis, Lakh crore for cold storage chain, contribution. Now to the agriculture the central government has taken warehousing, food processing this sector provides employment to several important steps for the poor. centres and other storage houses. as much as 11 crores of the people From June 1, National Portability of The government is encouraging in the country. In addition to this, Ration Card i.e. One Nation One the farmers for adoption of herbal subordinate loans of an amount of Ration Card is being implemented. organic and herbal cultivations. For 20 thousand crore rupees have been It will cover 67 crores beneficiaries the production of herbal plants, the announced to provide relief to loan from 23 states by August 2020. In government has chalked out a plan defaulter MSMEs. It is expected that this scheme, ration card holders on with an amount of Rs. 4000 crores. approximately 2 Lakh entrepreneurs a ration card will be able to get their Approximately 10 Lakh hectares shall benefit from the scheme. More share of ration in any corner of the of land have been allotted for the over a fund of Rs. 50,000 crores shall country. This will benefit more than herbal cultivation. With this step, be for Equity Infusion in MSMEs. 80 crores ration card holders in the the farmers shall earn Rs. 5000 The government is to redefine the country. Apart from this, 21 thousand crores as additional income. Rules concept of MSMEs to attract more crores have been deposited in the are being amended to ensure investment in the sector. At this very 20 crores Jan Dhan account to reasonable prices to the farmers moment the ceilings of turnover have provide financial help to the people and to facilitate them to sell their been increased up to 5 crore rupees from the Central Government. Under produces in other states also. With for micro enterprises, 50 crore Ujjwala Scheme, a total of seven this step a barrier free and interstate rupees for small industries and 100 crores village and rural women business environment shall be crore rupees for medium industries. were provided gas connection free possible for the farmers. Thereby Besides, to provide help to MSMEs, of cost for three months and an the farmer shall receive reasonable the government shall invite Global aggregate amount of 9 crore rupees prices for their crops. tenders for up to Rs. 200 crores. It was deposited in their accounts as Various significant steps have shall provide an opportunity to local subsidy. been taken by the government business companies in an effective A farmer is a producer of grains to workers and small, micro and manner. in the country. He had to face natural medium businessmen from the In the period of global recession as well as global calamities. The crises of Corona outbreak. In case when the entire world is making central government has deposited of Employees Provident Fund, arduous efforts to bail out from 18 thousand crore rupees in the the government has directed to these economic crises. India has accounts of 9 crore farmers in provide relief to both employees resolved to make our country self- April, just to bail them out from their and employers under which the reliant by making an announcement problems. To ensure appropriate government shall deposit 12% of of a package of Rs. 20 lakh crore prices to the farmers for their crops EPF on behalf of both employers and and bringing it necessary reforms. an amount of 75 thousand crore employees. To rescue the employees The country believes that the nation rupees was provided to the farmers from financial crises, necessary is not only protected in the hands in the in the minimum support price. amendments have been made in the of our Prime Minister Sh. Narendra To ensure that an indebted farmer EPF rules, so that employees have Modi, a leader of creative aptitude does not feel financial problem, the the exemption for the withdrawal and national mindset, but also it shall government has granted moratorium of 75% of the amount from their lead the countries in the direction of for six months to the farmers to repay account. With the 100% guarantee prosperity. For, with the international their debts. Along with, an amount of from the central government and image of the country, Modiji has 86 thousand crore rupees was made the make small, micro and medium made in the last five years, a number available to the farmers as loans at enterprises robust, a package of Rs. of countries of the world are seeing low rate of interest. An additional 3 Lakh crores has been announced India with great expectations. To emergency working capital fund was at the rate of 7.5 % of the interest. make India self-reliant, Modiji has provided to NABARD for the welfare As such businessmen can receive given a slogan - Vocal to Local and of small and marginal farmers. To more than 20% of their working from Local to Global, thereby he promote the income of farmers capital without any guarantee and gave a new motto to his countrymen and maintenance of agricultural co-laterals. The MSME sector is for their Soil of the country. produces, the government has taken considered the backbone of the (The writer is MoS, Ministries of various steps. The advancements economy. This sector accounts for Finance & Corporate Affairs)

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 81 MSMes: the growth eNgiNe of iNdiaN ecoNoMy accounts for about 33 per cent of the The Government under the manufacturing output and 48 per cent leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister, of total exports of the country. Export Narendra Modi, recognized the promotion from the MSE sector inherent benefits of MSME sector PrataP ChaNdra has been accorded a high priority. and under several innovative policy saraNGi To help MSMEs in exporting their interventions like Start-Up India, products, preferences were given Stand-Up India and Make in India, icro, Small and Medium to MSME exporters to participate in the new MSMEs were set up and Enterprises (MSMEs) form international exhibitions; training and an entrepreneurial revolution was the backbone of the Indian m exposures were given to the MSME ushered in. Conscious efforts were economy. At comparatively lower exporters in areas of packaging, made to put in place an MSME capital cost than large industries, the sector specific market inputs and ecosystem to encourage new MSMEs help in industrialization of other export- related requirements. industries to gain foothold and rural and backward areas, thereby, existing ones to flourish. As a result, reducing regional imbalances, today we have more than six crore assuring more equitable distribution The MSME Units. The most striking of national income and wealth. Government under the feature of this sector is its easy MSMEs are primarily ancillary units, leadership of interface with women entrepreneurs. complementary to large industries. Hon’ble Prime Minister Today, of the total Units, 1.24 Given the overriding importance Shri Narendra Modi, crore Units are owned by women of this sector in the country’s recognized the inherent entrepreneurs. economic development, the benefits of MSME sector Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium and under several innovative cHALLenGes FAceD by MsMes Enterprises (MSME) was set up to policy interventions like It has been felt that MSMEs promote growth and development Start-Up India, Stand-Up India have enormous potential to growth, and Make in India, the new of the MSME sector, including keeping in view the industrial Khadi, Village and Coir Industries. MSMEs were set up and an entrepreneurial revolution base that has been created and a GroWtH AnD PerForMAnce was ushered in. Conscious consistently conducive policy focus on MSMEs. With the experience, Over the years, MSME sector efforts were made to it has been recognized that unless has emerged as a highly vibrant put in place an MSME measures are taken to address and dynamic sector of our economy ecosystem to encourage new multiple constraints being faced by contributing around 30 per cent to industries MSMEs, perhaps the growth of this the Gross Domestic Product. The sector will stagnate and even decline. sector contributes significantly to Therefore, to leverage the potential employment, manufacturing output, MSME sector of MSMES, the 12th five-year plan and exports of the country. MSMEs contributes not only to higher rate focused on finance, technology, employ an estimated 11.10 crore of economic growth but also in infrastructure and marketing support persons, next only to Agriculture. building an inclusive and sustainable to MSMEs. It has been estimated that a lakh society in innumerable ways through The Government remained rupees of investment in fixed assets creation of non-farm livelihood always sensitive to the growth of in the small scale sector generates at low cost, balanced regional MSMEs and, therefore, initiated employment for four persons. It development, women empowerment actions to address the concerns is the only sector that provides and social balance, environmentally of MSMEs in the areas of finance, maximum opportunities for both self- sustainable development and above technology, infrastructure and employment and wage-employment. all, sustaining economic growth marketing. While the comprehensive In terms of value, the sector amidst growing uncertainties in global economy. measures were underway to create

82 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 a conducive business ecosystem of industries for good. Automatic Loans for Businesses, for the MSMEs and with enhanced After due consideration of the including MSMEs budgetary allocations in 2020-21, difficulties faced by the MSMEs • Rs 20,000 crores Subordinate the Ministry of MSME was all geared due to the impact of COVID 19, the Debt for Stressed MSMEs to impart the much needed impetus, Government has come out with an • Rs 50,000 cr. Equity infusion for the COVID 19, the global pandemic, economic stimulation package to MSMEs through Fund of Funds hit the economy hard, creating a breathe life into the MSMEs and in • New Turnover based definition of havoc in the MSMEs. the process revive the economy, MSMEs which has witnessed unprecedented • Global Tender to be disallowed IMPACT OF COVID 19 ON MSMEs shocks across the sectors. up to Rs. 200 crore Covid-19 and the resultant • e- market linkage for MSMEs to be lockdown has dealt a body blow to econoMic stiMULUs PAcKAGe promoted to act as a replacement millions of small businesses in the For MsMes for trade-fairs and exhibitions country. Because of their size, scale The biggest challenge for MSMEs • MSME receivables from of operation, limited finance and has been access to finance and this Government and CPSEs to be managerial resources, the MSMEs, has been severely exacerbated in released in 45 days. in particular the MSEs, could not the current situation especially for These measures have the cope with difficulties brought on them meeting the working capital needs. potential to help the MSMEs bounce by this pandemic. The lockdown in MSMEs have taken the maximum back from the pandemic’s impact. the country has affected the sector hit and they need additional funding The stimulus will help many Units very badly in terms of shrinkage of to meet operational liabilities resume operations and gradually exports, closure of production, non- built up, buying raw material sustain them in the business. The availability of labour, uncertainty of and restarting business. The Subordinate Debt Fund and the consumption and liquidity squeeze Government, therefore, announced Fund of Funds have the potential in the market. This distressed sector a comprehensive stimulus package to address the long terms concerns has already rendered millions jobless for the MSMES, which include: of credit to the MSMEs. These are and may lead to closure of a number • Rs 3 lakh crores Collateral-free unprecedented decisions in the history of MSMEs to scale up their profile by integrating them to more dynamic and credible sources of finance. concLUsion: MSMEs in the Indian Economy have shown tremendous growth and excellent performance with the contribution of policy framework and efficient steps which had been taken by the Government from time to time for the growth and development of the MSMEs. In the post – COVID 19 situation, the Government has remained far more committed than ever before to provide much safer and better ecosystem for the MSMEs to grow and excel. The vision of the Hon’ble Prime Minister for shaping an ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ hinges greatly on the strong shoulders of our MSMEs. (The writer is MoS for MSME and Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Government of India)

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 83 New iNdia iS growiNg oN the StreNgth of woMeN Power...

was highly eskewed. Modiji did not process is now brought down to stop here and slowly the caravan seven-eight months. Due to this, in of women centric schemes grew many states, in two-three months, which ensured the four pillars of the rape convicts were sentenced viJaya rahatkar women empowerment. These four to death. Anti-Trafficking Bill was pillars are security, health, social introduced, use of Nirbhaya funds he legislature, executive, empowerment and economic started effectively and opened judiciary and media are the empowerment. Several steps were more than 300 ‘one-stop centers’ T four pillars of democracy. taken by putting them in front. He for women victims of violence, Anyone will tell. But who will not only made plans, but laid full to provide shelter and medical be able to tell the four pillars of emphasis on the implementation facilities. More than 700 Swadhar women’s empowerment, which is Homes were built. half of the population and which Protecting motherhood is the plays an important role in nation protection of the future, everyone building? The most knows this, but nobody bothered Probably no one If we do not important was the to implement it. Modi ji should be know these four pillars, how will provision of security. an exception, as he launched safe we be able to march ahead in A provision was made to motherhood campaign. More than hang rape convict of girls that direction? Probably the two and a half million pregnancy same happened in the last 60- under the age of 12 years. By amending the law, the time checkups were conducted in 70 years. The governments limit for the completion of the thousands of health centers, came into the power, and went judicial process is now brought more than 8 lakh high risk away, but they did not make down to seven-eight months. pregnancies were detected. policies, nor implement them, Due to this, in many states, in Under the Prime Minister keeping women in center. The two-three months, the rape Matruvandana, every pregnant words of empowerment and convicts were sentenced to woman was given financial death. upliftment are only written in the assistance of 6000 rupees. Mission Anti-Trafficking Bill pages of newspapers, speeches Rainbow began vaccination of was introduced, use of politicians and on Women’s mothers and infants. Its scope Day in the ‘vision document’ of of Nirbhaya funds started... was expanded, 5 new vaccines government because the woman (measles, rubella, neumococcal was never a ‘vote bank’. rotavirus, inactivated polio and ‘Chalta hai ...’ this attitude Japanese encephalitis) were was first rejected by that Prime of the plans. From the birth of the added. It is benefiting millions of Minister Shri Narendra Modi after girl child, various schemes have mothers and children. He started the formation of the government been launched in a systematic a National Nutrition Mission of in 2014. Modi ji’s first big initiative way for her education, nutrition, nine thousand crores. Millions of was Jan Dhan and Beti Bachao - skills and development. mothers are getting its benefits. Beti Padhao ..! Both had priority The most important was the Modi ji took an important step only women. Today, there are provision of security. A provision forward and provided maternity about 20 crore bank accounts of was made to hang rape convict of leave for working women which poor women opened and the sex girls under the age of 12 years. By has been increased from 12 ratio has increased from 840 to 935 amending the law, the time limit weeks to 26 weeks. How much even in Haryana where sex ratio for the completion of the judicial these 26 weeks are necessary

84 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 for maternal and child health after Mehram (male guardian) for the business women in ‘MSME’ ... maternity, any working woman will first time. Keeping in mind the Modi ji left no stone unturned to tell. All these steps will reduce the importance of education, more give financial strength to women. maternal mortality rate by about than three crore Muslim girls When the world is talking only 30 Percentage. The maternal awarded with scholarships. about women’s development, mortality rate was 167 in 2011-13, If there is no economic then Modi ji is working towards which decreased to around 110- empowerment, then social women led development. He is 120 during 2016-18. empowerment probably does desperately trying to bring it to the The steps that Modi government not have much use. Therefore, ground. I would like to present an has taken for social empowerment more emphasis has been given example. Recently, the Pradhan of women, perhaps no one has on economic empowerment Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana was taken so far. Ujjwala scheme is in Modiji’s women policy. As announced to combat the Corona a great example of this social mentioned earlier, Jan Dhan virus. If you look at it carefully, you empowerment. This scheme will know comfortably, Modi ji has of giving free gas cylinders to trusted women only in this crisis poor Dalit, tribal women brought time! The government has offered unprecedented change ... Instead This indicates Five hundred rupees every month that… of living in suffocation, ‘Ujjwala’ in the account of 20 crore women gave more than eight and a Modi ji is building a of Jan Dhan account holders, new India. It is an India half crore women, children the growing on the strength of three kitchen cylinders were chance to breathe in clean air. womanism. Whether it is given free to more than eight Under Pradhan Mantri Awas sports or science, our woman crore beneficiaries, cheaper and Yojna women were not only power is second to none. In double loan to self-help groups... given priority in the allocation, Corona Fight, women are ahead This indicates that… but also made them the landlord of everyone. She is advancing Modi ji is building a new or co-owner. This single step rapidly in every field and India. It is an India growing increased the confidence of the enhancing the pride of India on the strength of womanism. with her achievements. women, made them self-reliant. Modi ji has shown Whether it is sports or science, More than 10 crore toilets built commitment in the last our woman power is second to on the mission mode in Swachh six years to empower none. In Corona Fight, women Bharat freed the embarrassment of women and equal are ahead of everyone. She is crores of women. This happened advancing rapidly in every field in schools, when more than five and enhancing the pride of India lakh toilets were constructed. with her achievements. Modi ji has Girls are no longer afraid of Yojana has enabled more than shown commitment in the last six embarrassment. 20 crore poor women’s to open years to empower women and The triple talaq law is the their banks accounts. Now these equal participation in the overall crowning glory for Modi ji. It was poor women have accumulated development of the country which not easy to save crores of Muslim more than one lakh crores in no one has shown in 60 years. Modi sisters from this centuries old these accounts. Women have ji showed this by doing, because practice. In view of the opposition taken maximum benefit of Mudra the foundation of ‘ModiNomics’ is of Mullah-Maulvi as well as the Yojana. More than 25 crores of feminine. On complete one year pseudo secular parties that loans have been given in which in second term I congratulate protected them, Modiji showed there 17-18 crores borrowers are Team Modi and I have a strong political will. For this strong will, women. This single scheme has belief in the mind that in future as the Muslim sisters will always be accelerated the pace of economic well, government will take better indebted to Modi ji. One such empowerment. Sukanya steps towards making women decision, which will make Muslim Samriddhi Yojana, Standup India, stronger. women feel more empowered. Strengthening Self Help Groups in (The writer is National President, BJP After independence, women were National Rural Livelihood Mission, Mahila Morcha) allowed to go on Haj Yatra without women ‘e-Haat’ scheme, promote

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 85 oNe year of Modi goverNMeNt aatMaNirBhar Bharat - oPPortuNitieS withiN iNdia ‘Never waSte a criSiS’

into the ecosystem and creates a Article 370 which our constitutional performance matrix for evaluation. forefathers had envisioned as a The Covid- 19 crisis has brought temporary measure was permanently in sharp focus the aspect of state intriguing us day and night. We were GoPal krishNa aGarwal capacity. Use of Big Data and harping on Jammu and Kashmir Artificial Intelligence (AI) for good being an integral part of India but governance, policies and welfare on the ground it seemed otherwise. odi government is finishing programmes are bringing massive Wavering leadership of earlier times first year of its 2nd term. The improvement in state capacity. India’s neither had the courage or the vision m 2019 mandate was historic. earlier digital story based on Aadhar to unshackle the historical wrongs. It was after thirty-five years that any is very different from other countries Modi government removed it in one government had been voted back to go. People wondered, what we were power with this thumping majority. waiting for all these years? Bringing The unprecedented mandate gives Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), certain confidence and also throws dealing with Rohingya infiltrator or some challenges. The National Population Register and The five years of our previous Covid-19 crisis National Citizenship Register are governance had given a hope that has brought in sharp pointing that India’s national interest the process of structural changes focus the aspect of state are supreme. creating a business ecosystem the second budget: It was a capacity. of transparent and level playing landmark in laying a roadmap field would bear long term fruits Use of Big Data and for five trillion dollar economy. of equal opportunities for all. Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Under the theme of Economic Concentration of wealth, large- good governance, policies Development in the 2nd Budget, scale corruption, and leakages and welfare programmes government provided for all the in social delivery mechanism are bringing massive important sectors like technological and gaps in tax collection had improvement in state textile centres, power and renewable become part of history. Modi Ji energy, connectivity like airports, capacity. never came to manage economy; seaports and railways. Finance he made transformative changes in minister worked out a mechanism the ecosystem. Challenges always for the ambitious plan of investment seemed to be an opportunity and he of Rs 103 lakh crore under National took the problems head on. Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) The first year of the second term and has set an example for the world. identifying 6500 projects for financing is no less different. The focus of the Indian talent in these areas is being through Center, State and foreign Government is more on ‘ease of nurtured and leveraged. direct investments (FDI). Government living’, formalization of economy and ideological Precedence: It was an has also opened up its bond markets, equal opportunities for all. year where ideology took precedence in denomination, for investment building state Capacity: The over other things. Shri Amit Shah from foreign sovereign debt Government has always been rightly said that we have not been funds, securing against exchange extensively using technologies to elected for the second term to merely fluctuations. Financial market’s long build State capacity. It identifies the govern but to address India’s long- pending demand for abolition of problem, creating technical solutions standing issues. India was bogged dividend distribution tax (DDT) has around; integrating stakeholders’ down by certain historical problems. been accepted.

86 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 The budget focused on wealth manufacturing sector in India; like for real estate industry labour is also creation, pro business policies and lowering of interest rate, reduction in helping labour. minimal government intervention. logistical cost, labour reforms, ease of Compliance mechanism: Easing For resource generation it has compliances, contract enforcement compliance requires technological desisted from increasing direct or and FDI policy. Detailed reforms in innovation. Government has indirect taxes. Announcement of these area as follows; announced, virtual E assessment Taxpayer’s Rights Charter within Private Capital formation: for Income Tax Act. Most of the the statute is an important step of Government’s efforts in the areas like compliances of RBI, ROC and bringing accountability in the tax Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code has SEBI etc. have been computerized. administration. Provision for statutory resulted in reducing risk premium Indirect taxes have been made online taxpayer’s right exists only in three on interest cost and successive through GST Network. Government other countries worldwide. reduction in Repo rate and Reverse has brought manufacturing policy RCEP, FtA and import Duties: Repo rate have brought down prime in which entrepreneur has to fill Government’s efforts of reduction lending rate. Entrepreneur Memorandum (EM) in corporate taxes to 25 percent, national logistic Policy: Presently doing away with permission and decriminalisation of Company the logistical sectors contribution licensing in all segments except Act 2013, protection of domestic to GDP is 14-15 percent in India, for four sectors; tobacco, defence, industries by refusing to sign where as in developed countries alcohol and hazardous chemicals. Regional Comprehensive Economic this is about 9-10 FDi Policy: Central Government has Partnership (RCEP) against all allowed Foreign Direct Investment domestic and regional pressure, (FDI) through the automatic route renegotiating and reworking on Free in most of the sectors of the Indian Trade Agreement (FTA) with ASEAN Government’s economy, with sectoral caps in only countries and increasing import efforts in the areas some of them. Current account duties in eight segments were like Insolvency and convertibility is in place; restrictions all in the direction of protecting Bankruptcy Code has under the FEMA and repatriation industries from onslaught of unfair resulted in reducing risk rules have been relaxed, helping global competition. premium on interest cost further foreign direct investment in the Corona Challenge: and successive reduction in the domestic manufacturing sector. Covid-19 is a nonlinear and Repo rate and Reverse Repo Emerging segments: Central uncertain event. The Government rate have brought down Government had set up robust Start- interventions are commensurate up ecosystem like Atal Innovation with the severity of the global prime lending rate. Mission, Atal Incubation Centres and recession. Demand in the economy Tinkering Labs. Emerging areas like will diminish due to economic Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data uncertainty, job losses and financial and analytics have large scope in problems. Therefore, Government’s the future for India and government focus is on reviving demand. focus on five pillars of Aatma Aatma nirbhar bharat: The trend percent. Meaning thereby that Nirbhar Bharat including economy, of deglobalisation, which started after the transportation cost for our infrastructure, technology will create the global financial crisis and gained manufacturing sector is about 40 greater opportunities for the future. strength after the 2016 US elections, percent. Government has announced The first year of 2nd term of Modi is expected to accelerate. India is National Logistic Policy aiming to Government has laid the roadmap for also focusing on being self-reliant in bring it down by 2022. the future and we will embark on it critical products and areas. Looking labour law Reforms: with full gusto. Watching over India’s into this, the economic reforms of Understanding the need of labour interest and nationalism is at the core Aatma Nirbhar Bharat, focusing reforms, Government has worked on of all the policies of our government on all the factors of production, consolidating the existing multiple and the nation should rest assure that will make our domestic industries labour laws into four Labour Codes, we are in safe hands. competitive, rebuild and catalyze easing compliances and streamlining growth in an unprecedented manner. welfare. Initiatives like Shram (The writer is National spokesperson of There are certain challenges for the Suvidha, Universal account number, BJP on economic affairs)

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 87 the QueSt for aatMa NirBhar Bharat

of making the country “self-sufficient to be comprehensive and all- in consumer goods through the around. “Self-esteem is a feeling widespread development of small- of the heart. I believe this feeling is dr. aNirBaN scale and cottage industries” essential too for the development GaNGuly among other things and spoke of the individual and the nation”, he of the “encouragement of observed. In course of his writings rime Minister Narendra Swadeshi” and said that “to give and political discourses, Pandit Modi’s call for an Atma fillip to national industry the party Deendayal Upadhyaya emerged P Nirbhar Bharat – a self- will take steps to re-awaken the as one of the foremost exponents dependent – India is not a claptrap; national conscience in favour of of his times arguing for the need it is a call for a comprehensive to evolve a policy and economic civilizational self-renewal. It framework that would lead us to articulates India’s engagement In national self-reliance. with the world at a time when its first To give just one more example, the contours and narrative of manifesto for the later, just the BJP, the party’s globalization is being sharply economic resolution in July debated and examined. first general elections 1985, spoke of how the When public intellectuals are in 1951-52, the Jana need for “self-reliance” was speaking of an unfortunate forgotten. The vision of return to the fortress Sangh, then under the an Aatma Nirbhar Bharat existence, when many are leadership of its founding therefore has been driving speaking of isolationism president Dr Syama Prasad and exercising the Jana and a falling back upon Sangh’s and BJP’s oneself, Prime Minister Mookerjee, spoke of making policy horizon, right since Modi speaks of being self- the country “self-sufficient in inception. Prime Minister reliant but not self-centered, Modi has, in the last six and of a future which is consumer goods through the years, systematically about “togetherness and widespread development of moved towards realizing resilience.” He speaks of small-scale and cottage that vision. DBT, Jan Dhan, delineating India’s trajectory Mudra, eliminating of delivery in shaping a post COVID19 industries” among leakages are steps towards world order. In fact, unlike the other things and realizing that vision. His call Congress party whose slogan of spoke of the... for becoming vocal on local the seventies, “Garibi Hatao” which products, in encouraging their was a mere slogan to garner votes manufacturing, in supporting them and remained unimplemented, the and in disseminating them globally BJP’s vision of a self-dependent Swadeshi…” are to be seen and internalized India, has been articulated ever In his many writings, talks against the backdrop of that vision since the first days of the Jana and public addresses Pandit and aspiration. The calls therefore Sangh. Deendayal Upadhyaya, for of a “New India” and of an Aatma In its first manifesto for the instance, often spoke of the need Nirbhar Bharat, are not hollow first general elections in 1951-52, to awaken the ‘spirit of self-reliance slogans, they are aspirations which the Jana Sangh, then under the in the country.” Deendayalji are being realized. leadership of its founding president spoke of the need to rekindle PM Modi has also called for Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee, spoke “self-esteem”, this rekindling had the need of a new globalization.

88 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 This globalization, he has post COVID world, PM Modi had ridicule and misinterpretation, that argued, needs to be human indicated how India, a youthful sense has survived and has seen centered. This stands in clear nation with the zeal for innovation India emerge today as one of the contradistinction to the current can alter and re-structure the terms leading start-up and innovation narrative of globalization which and framework of globalization. He hubs globally. The call for a self- has evolved over the last so many had written about India emerging as dependent India was also a decades – a globalization which is a crucial supply-chain hub, “India, defining dimension throughout our primarily focused on homogeneity, with the right blend of the physical struggle for freedom. PM Modi’s is at times hegemonic and has and the virtual can emerge as the call for being vocal about local, has manifested in some, a propensity global nerve centre of complex a global dimension – it is to both to to exploit and impose uniformity. modern multinational supply chains project India’s material capacities PM Modi, is perhaps among the in the post COVID-19 world,” and and spiritual truths. few, or the only world leader, who had spoken of the need for In fact, most of our epochal while immersed in handling the thinkers, who articulated or Corona challenge, has also kept envisaged a free India also spoke articulating fundamental thoughts of her role in the world. They and ideas on a post Corona world PM Modi had spoke of being nationalist and and the role India would play in indicated how internationalists and negated shaping it. a rootless cosmopolitanism, PM Modi’s “Atma Nirbhar India, a youthful a “rootless universalism”, Bharat” vision, his call for nation with the zeal for while also decrying a being “vocal on the local” innovation can alter and compartmentalized self- are part of that unbroken centeredness. They chain of thoughts. He re-structure the terms and staunchly advocated the firmly feels that India’s framework of globalization. need for reviving and moment of shaping a strengthening our cultural new world order, post He had written about India and industrial bases and the pandemic has come. emerging as a crucial supply- genius that would turn Indeed, the post-Corona chain hub, “India, with the India into a centre of global world calls for a new transactions – ideational as world order. As thinkers right blend of the physical well as material. and experts have indicated and the virtual can The narrative of the twenty ad nauseam, never has the first century being the Asian world, since the Spanish Flu emerge as the global century, is taking shape, and in pandemic a hundred years ago, nerve centre... shaping the Asian century India, or since World War two, seven odd has begun to play a pivotal, defining decades ago, seen such a reversal, and a civilizational role. When PM such upheaval and overturning of Modi said, that “India’s culture most of our established notions “seizing considers the world as one family, and beliefs. The dominant structure the opportunity.” His call for being and progress in India is part of, and and narrative of the current wave vocal on the local, thus, has given also contributes to, progress in the of globalization is under intense the first impetus towards seizing whole world” and “the world trusts scrutiny and PM Modi’s call for a that opportunity. that India has a lot to contribute renewed look at globalization came The emphasis on the “local” towards the development of the early into the pandemic when most also rekindles our call to action entire humanity”, he is exactly others were trying to fathom the whenever a struggle for our destiny reiterating our civilisational extent of its impact on international has been in the offing. It is a call aspirations articulated, over ages, dealings. which has always galvanised by some of the leading shapers of In a write-up towards the end our collective imagination, it is a our collective destiny. of April and in his interactions with call which has always remained (The writer is Director of Dr. young professionals on the next intrinsic to the psyche of a free Syama Prasad Mookerjee Research Foundation) major ideas which will shape the India. Despite facing decades of

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 89 Modi 2.0- foreigN Policy iNitiativeS

and Saudi Arabia. During these prestigious ‘The King Hamad Order visits, he touched upon various of the Renaissance’, the highest topics of mutual interests as well as honour of Bahrain. Prime Minister dr viJay on the issues of global importance. visited the Shreenathji Temple Chauthaiwale For example, in France, he said dedicated to Sri Krishna and also ““Nowadays we talk of 21st century the “prasad” that he bought with the fter his mammoth victory in ‘INFRA’. That is ‘IN’ plus ‘FRA’ is the RuPay card. Lok Sabha elections in May alliance of ‘INDIA’ and ‘FRANCE’. During his visit to Saudi Arabia, a 2019, Prime Minister Modiji’s ..The alliance of India and France is PM Narendra Modi visited Saudi agenda on foreign policy remained moving strongly.” He also touched Arabia for a high-profile Future very hectic It was comprised of upon climate change and Solar Investment Initiative Summit, strengthening bilateral ties, dubbed as “Davos in the putting forward India’s interests desert,” an initiative of Saudi in multilateral forums, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin later on, during COVID-19 PM Modi was Salman. pandemic, extending helping the first Indian During Russia visit, PM Modi hand to every country that was Prime Minister to was greeted by Vladimir Putin in need for medicine or any visit Bahrain. First ever at Vladivostok and the Russian other assistance. President, Both the leaders After inviting SAARC prime ministerial visit participated in the 20th India- leaders for his swearing- from India to Bahrain. Russia Annual Summit. While in ceremony in 2014, PM During his visit, Prime addressing the press after Modiji invited the BIMSTEC Minister was conferred the the summit, PM Modi said leaders for the second oath prestigious ‘The King Hamad that both India and Russia ceremony. BIMSTEC, a Order of the Renaissance’, the are against outside influence grouping of Bangladesh, in the internal matters of any India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, highest honour of Bahrain. nation. The annual summit Thailand, Nepal and Bhutan, Prime Minister visited covered a number of regional the countries dependent on the the Shreenathji Temple and international issues of Bay of Bengal, is a major foreign dedicated to Sri Krishna mutual interest including the policy of PM. Additionally, and also the “prasad” situation in the Gulf region, Kyrgyzstan’s President that he bought with the Afghan peace process Sooronbay Jeenbekov (then the RuPay card. and the possibilities to further chair of SCO) and to the Prime strengthen cooperation Minister of Mauritius Pravind between the two countries in Jugnauth were also invited for the oil and gas sector. India the occasion. and Russia also exchanged 25 In the second term, his first visit alliance during his speeches. In agreements in the field of defence, abroad was to Sri Lanka, during Bhutan, he inaugurated 720 MW trade, industrial cooperation, which PM visited the St. Anthony’s Mangdechhu Hydroelectric power investments, connectivity corridors Shrine and paid homage to those plant and also launched RuPay and energy. President Putin has who lost their lives during the card. also announced that PM Modi will cowardly terror attack on Easter and PM Modi was the first Indian be conferred by ‘Order of St Andrew expressed solidarity with Sri Lankan Prime Minister to visit Bahrain. First the Apostle’ the highest civilian people. It was followed by several ever prime ministerial visit from award of Russia. bilateral visits to countries like India to Bahrain. During his visit, In addition to abovementioned Bhutan, France, Bahrain, Russia, Prime Minister was conferred the bilateral visits, PM Modiji has also

90 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 participated several important but the world has once again address was Climate Action Summit multilateral platforms. First, he thrown their weight behind India and on the sidelines of the United went to Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan reiterated that Kashmir is a solely Nations General Assembly (UNGA). to participate in the Shanghai an internal issue of India. In another Even as PM Modi prepared to begin Cooperation Organisation (SCO) major development, the United his address, there was a surprise summit. During the summit, PM Nations Secretary-General (UNSG) guest in the audience, US President Modi discussed the global security understood India’s position on its Donald Trump. PM invoked the situation security, multilateral bid for Nuclear Suppliers Group teachings of Gandhi and appealed economic cooperation, people (NSG) and said that he is willing to for behavioural changes to make to-people exchanges and topical help on the matter. climate sustainable. He spelt out issues of international and regional Prime Minister’s most significant all the initiatives taken by India with importance. visit of this year was his seven-day respect to environmental issues, PM Modi visited Osaka, Japan long visit to USA. During this visit, not to leave his initiative to ban the to attend G 20 Summit. Women use of single-use plastic in India on empowerment, issues related October 2. to digitalization and artificial PM PM also talked at a high-level intelligence, progress in achieving Modi also meeting on Universal Health Sustainable Development Goals spoke at an Coverage. “World welfare begins and addressing major global event-- ‘Leadership with people’s welfare, and health challenges such as terrorism Matters: Relevance of is an important component of and climate change formed the Gandhi in Temporary it. And in line with this global rich agenda of the Summit. principle, India is laying great The PM also held bilateral Times’--organised by the emphasis on health,” said PM and multilateral talks with Indian mission to the UN in Modi. This was followed by a several world leaders. New York to commemorate leaders’ dialogue on strategic In addition to main G-20 150th anniversary on Mahatma response to terrorism and meeting and several bilateral Gandhi. He lauded Gandhi’s violent extremists narratives. meetings on the sidelines, teachings, social reforms and PM Modi also spoke at an PM Modi joined two tri-lateral vision and said that they were event-- ‘Leadership Matters: meetings one with Russia relevant in contemporary Relevance of Gandhi in and China and other with USA Temporary Times’--organised and Japan. times. As a friendly gesture, by the Indian mission to the UN PM Modi was a participant at India also gifted a Gandhi in New York to commemorate the 45th G7 summit at the special Solar Park to the UN, 150th anniversary on Mahatma invitation of French President which was installed Gandhi. He lauded Gandhi’s Emmanuel Macron, as India is not a with solar teachings, social reforms and vision member of the group of seven. This panels... and said that they were relevant in invitation is seen as a “reflection of contemporary times. As a friendly the personal chemistry” between gesture, India also gifted a Gandhi the two leaders and also recognition he addressed several small and Solar Park to the UN, which was of India as a major economic power. big groups, had multiple bi-lateral installed with solar panels on the The G7 summit addressed a host meetings, plus he also addressed rooftop of the UN building in New of issues from climate change to United Nations General Assembly. York. India’s membership for the Nuclear The first engagement of PM During this visit, PM was Suppliers’ groups (NSG) and the Modi in Houston was with the top conferred “Global Gatekeepers global trade, taxation mechanism CEOs and representatives from Award” by Bills and Melinda Gates for technology companies among sixteen energy majors of the US. Foundation for the Swacch Bharat others. But the big focus was also The discussion was focussed on Abhiyan. on India’s move to do away with working together for energy security PM Modi, for the first time, met Article 370 on Jammu and Kashmir. and expanding mutual investment leaders from Pacific Island nations in The move Pakistan has been trying opportunities between India and New York in a plurilateral format. He to take up at the international level the US. In New York, PM Modi’s first demonstrated India’s commitment

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 91 to advancing their development essential medicines to more than new approach to globalisation and priorities, 133 countries in the world . (446 multilateralism in the aftermath of PM Modi made a major push million HCQ tablets and 1.54 billion the Covid-19 pandemic . Prime for foreign investments in the areas Paracetamol tablets). Minister had one-to-one telephonic like smart cities, infrastructure and PM Modi hosted the Video conversations with more than forty real estate, At Bloomberg Global Conference of South Asian world leaders and External Affairs Business Forum . He also interacted Association for Regional Cooperation Minister Dr Jaishankar talked to with over 40 business leaders and (SAARC) Leaders on COVID-19 his counterparts of more than sixty American CEOs at CEO Roundtable was held recently. All the members countries. where he highlighted the steps of SAARC (India, Bangladesh, In last one year, India has taken by India to build a USD 5 Bhutan, Nepal, Maldives, Sri Lanka, taken several transformational trillion economy. Afghanistan and Pakistan) attended initiatives on domestic front, such In his last day speech at the the conference. as abrogation of article 370, CAA, UN, PM Modi spoke about etc. Section of global media protecting the climate, fighting created a concerted campaign terrorism, maintaining global The against these measures. It was peace and his government’s most therefore imperative for India efforts at helping the significant event to explain the rationale and marginalised. He repeated of this visit was of importance of these measures. his message of ‘Sabka Saath, course “Howdy Modi” Under the leadership of Prime Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas’ which was attended Minister Modi, India has from the podium as he spoke by more than 50000 successfully navigated this about India’s culture. The enthusiastic members of challenge and convinced prime minister went on to our global friends that these quote a 3,000-year-old Tamil Indian Diaspora and was measures are not only non- poem to say inclusivity is addressed by PM Modiji discriminatory but also India’s strength and tradition. and US President Mr Donald empowers weaker sections He also called on the world Trump. of the society and enables to unite in the battle against Later on PM Modi ji went persecuted minorities of terrorism. to Bangkok to participate countries like Pakistan to The most significant event restart their lives with dignity. of this visit was of course ASEAN summit and RCEP Barring few notable exceptions, “Howdy Modi” which was meeting. During this India has largely successful attended by more than 50000 period, India has to bring global powers on enthusiastic members of Indian taken an important board on these issues. Later Diaspora and was addressed decision to opt on, during COVID-19 crisis, by PM Modiji and US President out of... India has again shown its Mr Donald Trump. leadership with compassion by Later on PM Modi ji went active exchange of information, to Bangkok to participate ASEAN India has proposed to create a supply of essential medicines and summit and RCEP meeting. During COVID-19 Emergency Fund which even food grains, etc. Though this period, India has taken an could be based on a voluntary foreign visits of Prime Minister have important decision to opt out of contribution from all SAARC stopped for last few months, it didn’t RCEP treaty. He also went to Brazil members and contributed $10 deter him from being active player to attend BRICS summit. Million to it. in global geo-politics and also from COVID-19 pandemic is one India has also proposed a rapid being leading partner against the of the gravest crises the world is response team of doctors and COVID19 pandemic. No wonder, PM facing in its history. It is but natural specialists, along with testing kits Modi’s leadership has been praised that India shows its leadership and other equipment for all the all over the world, bringing India to with compassion and love for member countries. the new glory. humanity. In addition to protect our During G-20 virtual summit Prime (The writer is National In-Charge, BJP own citizens, India has supplied Minister Narendra Modi urged a Foreign Affairs department)

92 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 MoviNg towardS Self-reliaNce iN health Sector

that Modi government has been the pandemic began, the country working with a much bigger goal lacked minimum facilities to to create a Self-Reliant India. counter it. Thus it is obvious, many The recently announced Rs 20 raised questions that can India be raM Prasad triPathy lakh crore package is certainly Self-Reliant in health sector. a major step in this direction. Three months ago there was ith the oath of PM Shri ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ is a great only one Covid-19 Testing Center Narendra Modi and his and groundbreaking initiative in the country. The production of w ministry on 30 May, 2019 which will usher in a new era of essentials like PPE, N-95 mask a golden chapter began in the was negligible and India had history of Indian democracy. to import these essentials After decades the electorate from abroad. In view of all voted back a full term PM Modi has these circumstances, the government to power given the idea international media also consecutively for the second of ‘Aatmanirbhar raised questions on India’s time with an overwhelming Bharat’ amidst India’s capability and how India majority. Following the fight against Covid-19 will fight against the Corona historic performance of Modi pandemic. When the fight pandemic. They feared that government for last five against the pandemic began, India would fail badly on years from 2014-2019 the the country lacked minimum the Covid front. However, country once again voted facilities to counter it. Thus the concerted efforts PM Modi undeniably with it is obvious, many raised made by the government some more aspirations from the beginning in and desires. Their desire is questions that can India be terms of preparedness further development of the Self-Reliant in health sector. and measures against country, a secure future and Three months ago there was the Covid-19 pandemic a respectful place to India only one Covid-19 Testing are commendable. in the comity of nations, with Center in the country. Entrepreneurs and innovators keeping the socio-cultural The production of from every sector of India fabric and ethos of the nation essentials like have also responded to intact. Undoubtedly, the PPE... the challenge posed by people have unfathomable the Covid-19 crisis very trust on PM Modi and quickly. Whether it is Indian everybody is hopeful that only institutions and companies PM Modi can bring this country to opportunities for every making a significant contribution the new growth trajectory with his Indian, be it our farmers, workers, to the global development of pioneering thoughts and visions. small entrepreneurs, industrialists vaccines/drugs against Corona Without disappointing, Prime or youth. or making hydroxychloroquine Minister Shri Narendra Modi PM Modi has given the idea drugs available to more than has once again shown a new of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ amidst 120 countries, India has raised vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ India’s fight against Covid-19 its flag on every front. In these to the country. Now it is evident pandemic. When the fight against three months, significantly we

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 93 have increased the production new innovations Aerospace Research centre, of PPE kits, N-95 masks from the To win the war against the Bangalore and involvement of insignificant quantity of production Covid-19 pandemic, India was 6 Indian companies under the to more than 3 lakhs per day the first to launch ‘Arogya-Setu’ guidance of ICMR in R&D of new and now India has become the app which helped against the Vaccines for Covid-19 has also second largest producer in the Covid-19 detection. Pune’s received appreciations. world. National Institute of Virology has The Indian Army and DRDO Even scientific agencies, successfully developed India’s developed “COVSACK” kiosks, an researchers, private and public first indigenous antibody test kit ultraviolet light-based sanitation research laboratories, start-ups, “ELISA”. A low cost Covid-19 test boxe. The Laser Science and incubators, and entrepreneurs kit has been developed by IIT- Technology Center (LASTEC), have done this miracle by PM’s Delhi scientists. A startup of IIT- the prestigious laboratory of encouragement and their self- Bombay has developed a digital the Defense Research and motivation to win the fight against Development Organization Corona. (DRDO) developed an ultra According to expectations, To violet disinfection tower. big research institutes of win the Contactless sanitizers, the country like IITs did war against the remote controlled trolleys commendable work no doubt, Covid-19 pandemic, and special type PPE kits but smaller institutions, for India was the first to have been developed by the example Odisha-based launch ‘Arogya-Setu’ app Indian Navy. Many Start-ups Berhampur ITI, which has no which helped against the have also contributed to direct relation with Corona Covid-19 detection. Pune’s the fight against Corona research is producing low- National Institute of Virology by developing fever cost Aerosol Boxes, Face has successfully developed detection systems and Shields, Sanitizers, Masks, India’s first indigenous portable ventilators etc. Sanitizer tunnels, converting antibody test kit “ELISA”. A The financial assistance discarded microwave ovens package announced into UV sanitizer chambers low cost Covid-19 test kit has by the Prime Minister to disinfect mobiles, pens, been developed by IIT-Delhi Shri Narendra Modi for laptops and other items for scientists. A startup of IIT- research and development the frontline medical staff and Bombay has developed a in health sector and to use of common public beyond digital stethoscope that counter Covid-19 will also this pandemic is also equally can listen and record go a long way in maintaining admirable. heartbeats from and enhancing the a distance. innovative research mindset of our scientific community. Simply we can say that all stethoscope that can the innovations India has made listen and record heartbeats from so far during this pandemic has a distance. It reduces the risk of definitely made us self-reliant and frontline medical staff who are persents the future path towards fighting against this epidemic. complete self-reliance in health Microwave Sterilizer “ATULYA”, sector. Whenever there has been an electrostatic disinfection a crisis in India, we stood with machine, Rapid Diagnostic Kit, our head high. At present India is Affordable Ventilator - Developed facing another crisis and we will by NOCCA Robotics of IIT Kanpur surely succeed in achieving our has received public accolades. goal. Large scale manufacturing (The writer is Associate Editor, of affordable ventilators by Kamal Sandesh)

94 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 Modi goverNMeNt towardS village SwaraJ

development reversed the Credit, Insurance, Pension in an thinking of economic growth & affordable manner to all poor. development from bottom to top. Account opened under PMJDY is The focus was laid on formulating opened with Zero balance. This vikash aNaNd a village centric visionary policy provided poor, destitute, women that will help to create the and senior citizen with feeling of harat” for Mahatma foundation of a self-reliant village empowerment and participation Gandhi was reflected in and progressive nation. Prime in mainstream development “b ‘village Swaraj’. He used Minister Shri Modi in his first tenure discourse. to say the soul of Bharat resides To put a check on the in villages. When India got middlemen, who used to freedom, the Congress under When routinely siphon off large the leadership of Pandit NDA came to part of benefits meant for Jawaharlal Nehru started power, under the the poor and farmers, Modi ruling India. Unlike Mahatma Government executed policy Gandhi, Pandit Nehru’s idea leadership of Shri of National Digital Policy and of India was neither village Narender Modi the idea of direct transfer of subsidies centric nor had village as development reversed the to farmers and other poor a unit of development for thinking of economic growth section of the society.This the country. His concept & development from bottom effort was appreciated of development for India to top.The focus was laid on world wide and reduced was rather top to bottom. formulating a village centric poverty substantially in The lacuna in this idea visionary policy that will help India. Its effect is being gets reflected in the poor to create the foundation of witnessed in current conditions of villages which a self-reliant village and situation of pandemic. resulted in widspred poverty progressive nation. Prime Prime Minister Shri in the country and poverty Minister Shri Modi in his Narendra Modi in his second shocks amid the crisis. tenure launched Pradhan The idea of development first tenure launched Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi conceived by Pandit Pradhan Mantri (PM-KISAN).This scheme Nehru and Indian National Jan-Dhan Yojana proved to be very beneficial Congress later on, has left (PMJDY). during lockdown. Total of the country in cognitive 9.67 crore farmers amid dissonance, crushed the lockdown got benefit moral judgements, entrenched launched Pradhan of the PM-KISAN scheme by 28 economic discrimination and Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana May,2020. The Union Government altered personal and social (PMJDY). It is the world’s largest has released more than 19 relationships thus leading to national flagship programme thousand crore rupees under the increased disparity in society. for financial inclusion to ensure scheme in the last two months When NDA came to power, access to financial services, (March-April). The amount has under the leadership of Shri namely, Banking/ Savings & been transferred directly to Narender Modi the idea of Deposit Accounts, Remittance, the farmers’ accounts through

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 95 digital transfer thus ensuring involvement of state government launched this platform aims regular consumption pattern in agriculture exports,promoting making self-reliant villages on 14 and ensuring social security.In value-added exports, marketing April 2016. the scheme, the amount of Rs. and promotion of Brand India. Apart from above mentioned 6000 per year has been paid And the government has major initiatives of Modi to each eligible farmer in three formulated policy to attract private Government, for making farmers installments and the amount will investments into production & financially secure in the case of be transferred directly to their processing. poor crop growth, it launched bank accounts. In 2016 the government Pradhan Mantri Fasal BimaYojna. The Agriculture sector has launched online National To provide irrigation facilities always been the priority of Agriculture Marketing Platform to farmers across the country, Govt. The government has also called e-NAM. The platform it launched Pradhan Mantri provided agricultural seeds to facilitates farmers,traders and Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) the farmers.Timely availability of and propelled money into the fertilizers, agriculture inputs, National Bank for Agriculture procurement of food grains and Rural Development to and strengthening cold In 2016 the boost credit penetration to storage facility has been done government farmers. on across states. launched online The Modi led BJP The scheme is government also focused supplementary in nature National Agriculture on electrification of every which takes care of financial Marketing Platform village of the country. Modi needs of Small and Marginal called e-NAM. The platform Government in its previous Farmers so that they can facilitates farmers,traders term has provided procure inputs that will and buyers for trading of electric connection to ensure proper crop health agriculture products. every village. For this and appropriate yields. The e-NAM is helping in great achievement, the The vision behind the PM- finding better price.The e-NAM global energy watchdog KISAN Scheme is to protect markets are getting popular International Energy the farmers from trap of as the crops are weighed Agency(IEA) in 2018 called moneylenders for meeting India a ‘star performer’ in their farming investment and immediately and the stock terms of achieving the big ensuring their continuance in is lifted on the same day milestone of the providing the farming activities. and the payments are power to each village.The PM Modi in his previous cleared online. institution praised Modi tenure brought the Agriculture Government for taking Export Policy 2018 focusing electricity to every village. to double farmers’ income With IMF and World by 2022. The Modi government Bank reducing the World’s GDP, new agriculture export policy buyers for trading of agriculture India has been kept on Higher has set the goal to double products. growth rate compared to many exports of agriculture products The e-NAM is helping in finding developed nations. The govt has and to integrate Indian farmers better price.The e-NAM markets given agriculture sector special and agricultural products with are getting popular as the crops focus in this period of crisis so global value chains.To ensure are weighed immediately and the that 57% of the total population doubling the agriculture export stock is lifted on the same day and engaged in this field don’t for making farmers stronger the payments are cleared online. suffer. With clear framework and Modi government working on key The platform obliterates all type determination, the Govt will revive measures like Infrastructure and hurdle whether be it bureaucratic the economy of the country. logistics support, comprehensive or unwanted interference of (The writer is Associate Editor, approach to boost exports,greater middleman. Shri Narendra Modi Kamal Sandesh)

96 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 a graNd view of the raShtraPati BhavaN duriNg the SweariNg-iN cereMoNy

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 97 98 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0 BJP karyakartaS ServiNg the Society tireleSSly

TOWARDS AATmAniRbhAR bhARAT i SpeciAl iSSue i 99 Back in 2014, the people of the country voted for a substantive transformation. in the last five years, the nation saw how the administrative apparatus broke itself free of status quo and from the swamp of corruption as well as misgovernance. true to the spirit of ‘antyodaya’ the lives of millions have been transformed. - Narendra Modi Prime Minister of india

dr. MookerJee SMruti NyaS PP-66, Subramanya Bharati Marg, New delhi-110003 Phone : 011-23381428, faX : 011-23387887 e-mail : [email protected] website: www.kamalsandesh.org contribution: `100

100 i SpeciAl iSSue i One YeAR OF mODi GOVeRnmenT 2.0