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Opinion | From Paralysis to Progress: How PM Modi Stirred A Stagnant Ship – News18


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In 2014, Narendra Modi arrived on the scene promising a different approach, a decisive break from the inertia that had gripped the country. And to a significant degree, that’s precisely what transpired

PM Narendra Modi chairs a NITI Aayog meeting with economists on December 24. (Image: PTI)

For far too long, the thought surrounding India was one of missed opportunities, a nation shackled by what many termed “policy paralysis”. Governments seemed bogged down in the quagmire of coalition politics, more concerned with keeping everyone happy than with the business of actually governing effectively. Initiatives languished, decisions were delayed, and the nation’s potential seemed frustratingly untapped.

Then, in 2014, Narendra Modi arrived on the scene promising a different approach, a decisive break from the inertia that had gripped the country. And to a significant degree, that’s precisely what transpired.

A NEW SENSE OF URGENCY

The very air seemed to crackle with a renewed sense of urgency. The notion of “policy paralysis” was frequently invoked, sharply contrasted with the new administration’s commitment to action. It was confidently stated that the stagnation prevalent before 2014 had been overcome by a determined effort to reform, perform and transform.

This shift was evident in concrete examples and emerging data. Before 2014, there was a “deep sense of uncertainty” pervading the economy, an affliction Indians themselves labelled “policy paralysis”. In a 2014 report by The Carnegie Endowment, data revealed that policy uncertainty had “vastly increased at the end of UPA’s first term”, contributing to India’s “worst growth performance in a quarter century”. And then came the turnaround.

The startup ecosystem is a prime example of this turnaround. In 2014, there were only “300-400 startups”, but within eight years, this number had exploded to “70,000 recognized startups”, a staggering increase.

This commitment to action also manifested in a new-found focus on efficiency and fiscal responsibility. Accounts from ministers and officials illustrate this point.

For instance, direct intervention spurred swift action on neglected government property, surprisingly yielding a substantial sum of “Rs 62 crore”. Another example highlighted the addressing of unfair subsidies in Parliament’s canteen, a seemingly small detail but symbolic of a broader commitment to equitable resource allocation.

These instances, though seemingly small, illustrated a commitment to efficiency and fiscal responsibility that had been sorely lacking. This attention to detail, this intolerance for even minor instances of governmental slackness, set a new tone for the administration.

POLICY OVERHAUL: INJECTING LIFE INTO KEY SECTORS

The government didn’t just talk the talk; it backed it up with a series of significant policy interventions across various sectors. In public health, a significant lack of effective policy had been evident, with real solutions to people’s needs slow to materialise. While current policies face scrutiny, it’s worth noting a period of stagnation preceded the more recent initiatives.

The establishment of the National Health Mission (NHM), though prior to 2014, gained momentum and focus, aiming to strengthen public sector healthcare. Later initiatives, such as Ayushman Bharat, while debated in their effectiveness, represented a significant attempt to improve healthcare access for vulnerable populations.

Economically, the shift was dramatic. A significant increase in policy uncertainty had occurred previously leading to stalled projects and a slowdown in investment. The Modi-led government, while facing its own economic challenges, actively promoted initiatives to boost domestic manufacturing. India’s governance model was even lauded as an example for the world, highlighting ambitions to lift millions out of poverty and implement innovative governance practices.

INJECTING DYNAMISM INTO A LETHARGIC SYSTEM

One of the key strategies employed was the emphasis on setting and achieving time-bound goals. This provided a framework for action and fostered a sense of accountability within the bureaucracy. For example, policy decisions announced were often implemented very quickly.

The focus on delivering governance to those most in need, as seen with initiatives like Ayushman Bharat, demonstrated an intention to translate policy into tangible benefits for citizens. This emphasis on delivery and measurable outcomes was a marked departure from a system often criticised for its slowness and lack of follow-through.

Furthermore, a culture of collaboration and teamwork was actively fostered. The idea of a unified national effort aimed to break down regional barriers and encourage a joined-up approach to governance.

Further illustrating this emphasis on speed and accountability is a comment shared by Vinod Kumar Yadav, former CEO of the Railway Board. He recounted an instance where the Prime Minister Narendra Modi ordered the construction of facilities like restaurants and shopping centres at railway stations to benefit local communities.

This directive was given with the expectation of swift implementation, reflecting a departure from the typical bureaucratic delays. The ambitious target of establishing “1,50,000 HWCs” (health and wellness centres) as new institutions in rural areas by February 2018, demonstrated a push for visible and time-bound deliverables in the policy sector.

IMPACT ON GOVERNANCE: A TANGIBLE SHIFT IN PERCEPTION

The cumulative effect of these policy changes and the shift in governance culture has been a noticeable change in perception, both within India and internationally. While criticisms persist, there’s a widespread recognition that the current government has been proactive and decisive in its approach.

This shift away from perceived “policy paralysis” has had tangible economic consequences. India’s economic standing has reportedly shifted from being labelled a “poor country” to being recognised as a “fastest growing economy”, reflected in significant increases in GDP (gross domestic product) per capita.

This progress, driven by a more decisive approach to policy, has attracted greater foreign investment and boosted India’s position in global economic rankings. The ambition to project India as a global leader, showcasing its governance model, has gained credibility as the economy demonstrates stronger growth and increased investor confidence, a direct result of overcoming past indecision and inaction. The focus on expanded welfare initiatives, with the large-scale implementation of programmes and the provision of essential goods, has undeniably impacted the lives of millions, contributing to social stability and potentially unlocking further economic participation.

While questions remain regarding data transparency and job creation, the sheer scale of these initiatives suggests a government actively engaged in addressing the needs of its citizens, a stark contrast to the “policy paralysis” narrative that dominated discussions before 2014. This proactive stance has fostered a sense of optimism and dynamism within the economy.

THE ROAD AHEAD: MAINTAINING MOMENTUN, ADDRESSING CHALLENGES

While significant progress has been made, the journey is far from over. In the public health sector, the ghost of “policy paralysis” still flickers in certain areas.

For instance, while schemes like Ayushman Bharat aim to improve access to tertiary care, fundamental issues surrounding primary healthcare infrastructure, workforce shortages, and effective disease prevention strategies persist. A truly robust public health system requires sustained and coordinated policy interventions across all levels of care.

Concerns about inequality and the insufficient creation of jobs remain valid, indicating that the benefits of economic growth haven’t been evenly distributed. Maintaining the current momentum and ensuring that the gains made are sustainable and inclusive remains a crucial challenge.

Further reforms are undoubtedly needed, particularly in areas such as making the bureaucracy more efficient and improving data transparency. Sustaining the focus on achieving goals within set timeframes and ensuring accountability will be essential to prevent a return to the inertia of the past. Moreover, addressing the criticisms and concerns raised is vital for ensuring that progress is both impactful and fair.

CONCLUSION: A SYSTEM REINVIGORATED

The narrative surrounding India has undeniably shifted. While the label of “policy paralysis” may not be entirely gone, the current government has demonstrably injected a new dynamism into the system.

Through a combination of determined policy interventions, a focus on achieving goals within specific timeframes, and a concerted effort to foster a culture of action, the government has, to a significant extent, overcome the stagnation of the past. The challenges ahead are significant, but the transformation witnessed since 2014 strongly suggests that India is no longer defined by an inability to act. The mechanisms of government, once seemingly stuck, are now moving forward with a renewed sense of purpose and direction.

(Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18’s views)

News opinion Opinion | From Paralysis to Progress: How PM Modi Stirred A Stagnant Ship



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