Narendra Damodardas Modi (born 17 September 1950) is an Indian politician who has been serving as the Prime Minister of India since 2014. Before this, he served as the Chief Minister of Gujarat from 2001 to 2014 and represents the Varanasi constituency as a Member of Parliament (MP). Modi is a prominent member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a right-wing Hindu nationalist organization. He holds the distinction of being the longest-serving prime minister outside the Indian National Congress.

Prime Minister of India
Born	17 September 1950 (age 74)
Political party	Bharatiya Janata Party
Education	Delhi University (BA) Gujarat University (MA)
Residence	7, Lok Kalyan Marg, New Delhi
Spouse	Jashodaben Modi ​ ​(m. 1968; sep. 1971)​

Modi was born and raised in Vadnagar, a town in northeastern Gujarat, where he completed his schooling. He was introduced to the RSS at age eight and became a full-time worker for the organization in Gujarat in 1971. At 18, he married Jashodaben Modi, but soon after, he distanced himself from her, only acknowledging their marriage publicly four decades later when legally required. In 1985, the RSS assigned him to the BJP, where he rose through the ranks and became the party’s general secretary in 1998.

In 2001, Modi was appointed Chief Minister of Gujarat. His tenure was marred by the 2002 Gujarat riots, which saw significant violence, particularly targeting the Muslim community. Official reports indicate over 1,000 deaths, with some independent sources estimating up to 2,000 fatalities. A Special Investigation Team, however, found no evidence to charge Modi for his role in the crisis. While Modi’s leadership in Gujarat is credited with spurring economic growth, his administration faced criticism for neglecting crucial areas such as healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation.

In 2014, Modi led the BJP to a historic victory in the Indian general elections, marking the first time since 1984 that a party won a majority on its own. As Prime Minister, his government attracted significant foreign investment, but it also reduced funding for healthcare, education, and social welfare programs. His administration launched several high-profile initiatives, including a sanitation campaign, the controversial demonetization of banknotes, and the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), while also weakening or repealing various environmental and labor regulations.

Modi's government conducted the 2019 Balakot airstrike targeting an alleged terrorist camp in Pakistan, a move that was popular domestically but was later criticized for its limited success. In the 2019 general elections, his party secured a second consecutive term. During his second term, Modi's government revoked Jammu and Kashmir's special status and passed the Citizenship Amendment Act, which sparked widespread protests and led to violent clashes in Delhi in 2020, with Muslims being targeted by Hindu mobs. Modi also faced widespread opposition over three controversial farm laws, which led to protests by farmers before the laws were eventually repealed.

Modi’s administration also oversaw India’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, during which the World Health Organization estimates that 4.7 million Indians lost their lives. In the 2024 general elections, Modi’s party lost its majority in the lower house of Parliament but formed a new government in a coalition with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

Under Modi’s leadership, India has faced challenges related to democratic backsliding, with concerns over the weakening of democratic institutions, individual rights, and freedom of expression. Despite this, Modi has enjoyed high approval ratings throughout his tenure. His political realignment of India’s political landscape towards right-wing politics has made him a polarizing figure, both domestically and internationally, especially due to his Hindu nationalist stance and the handling of the Gujarat riots, which have been viewed by some as part of a broader agenda promoting exclusionary social policies.

Early Life and Education

Narendra Damodardas Modi was born on 17 September 1950 in Vadnagar, Mehsana district, Bombay State (now Gujarat), into a Gujarati Hindu family of Other Backward Class (OBC) background. He was the third of six children born to Damodardas Mulchand Modi (1915–1989) and Hiraben Modi (1923–2022).

As a child, Modi occasionally worked in his father’s tea business at the Vadnagar railway station, as recalled by Modi himself and his neighbors.

Modi completed his higher secondary education in Vadnagar in 1967. His teachers described him as an average student but highlighted his interest and skill in debating and theatre. He enjoyed portraying larger-than-life characters in his theatrical performances, a trait that later influenced his political image.

At the age of eight, Modi was introduced to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), where he began attending local shakhas (training sessions). It was here that he met Lakshmanrao Inamdar, who took Modi under his wing, mentoring him as a balswayamsevak (junior cadet). He also encountered Vasant Gajendragadkar and Nathalal Jaghda, leaders of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh who later played a role in establishing the BJP’s Gujarat unit in 1980. During his teenage years, Modi joined the National Cadet Corps (NCC).

As per a traditional custom in his caste, Modi’s family arranged his betrothal to Jashodaben Chimanlal Modi, whom he married when she was 17 and he was 18. Shortly after the marriage, he left home and distanced himself from his wife. Although they never divorced, Modi did not publicly acknowledge the marriage for many years. It was only in April 2014, just before his national election campaign, that he confirmed his marriage to Jashodaben.

For the next two years, Modi traveled extensively across northern and northeastern India, visiting Hindu ashrams founded by Swami Vivekananda, including Belur Math near Kolkata, the Advaita Ashrama in Almora, and the Ramakrishna Mission in Rajkot. Despite his spiritual journeys, his stays were brief due to his lack of formal college education. Vivekananda’s teachings had a profound influence on Modi’s life.

In 1968, Modi traveled to Belur Math but was turned away. He then visited Calcutta (now Kolkata), West Bengal, and Assam, including stops in Siliguri and Guwahati, before returning to Gujarat. He also visited the Ramakrishna Ashram in Almora, where he faced rejection again, before making his way back to Gujarat through Delhi and Rajasthan in late 1969 and early 1970. Upon returning to Vadnagar briefly, Modi eventually relocated to Ahmedabad, where he lived with his uncle and worked in his uncle’s canteen at the Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation.

In Ahmedabad, Modi reconnected with Inamdar, who was based at the Hedgewar Bhavan, the RSS headquarters. In 1971, Modi participated in a Jana Sangh Satyagraha in Delhi led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee, aimed at enlisting support for the Bangladesh Liberation War. The government prohibited open support for the Mukti Bahini, and Modi was briefly detained in Tihar Jail. After the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, Modi left his uncle’s canteen and became a full-time pracharak (campaigner) for the RSS under Inamdar’s mentorship.

In 1978, Modi earned a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in political science from the School of Open Learning at Delhi University. In 1983, he completed his Master of Arts (MA) in political science from Gujarat University, graduating with first-class honors. However, controversy surrounds the authenticity of his BA and MA degrees.

Early Political Career

In June 1975, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi declared a state of emergency in India, which lasted until 1977. During this period, known as "the Emergency," many political opponents were jailed, and opposition groups were banned. Modi became the general secretary of the "Gujarat Lok Sangharsh Samiti," an RSS committee that coordinated opposition to the Emergency in Gujarat. Shortly after, the RSS was banned, and Modi was forced to go underground to avoid arrest, frequently traveling in disguise. At times, he dressed as a monk and on other occasions as a Sikh. He was involved in printing anti-government pamphlets, sending them to Delhi, and organizing protests. Modi also played a key role in establishing a network of safe houses for individuals wanted by the government and in raising funds for political refugees and activists. During this time, he wrote a Gujarati-language book titled Sangharsh Ma Gujarat ("In the Struggles of Gujarat"), which detailed events during the Emergency. In this capacity, he met trade unionist and socialist activist George Fernandes and several other national political figures.

In 1978, Modi became an RSS sambhag pracharak (regional organizer), overseeing activities in Surat and Vadodara. By 1979, he moved to Delhi to work for the RSS, where he researched and wrote the history of the Emergency. Shortly afterward, he returned to Gujarat, and in 1985, the RSS assigned him to the BJP. Modi played a crucial role in organizing the BJP's campaign for the Ahmedabad municipal election in 1987, which the party won decisively, and his strategy was credited as a significant factor in the victory.

Following L.K. Advani's election as the BJP president in 1986, the RSS decided to place its members in key party positions. Modi's success in Ahmedabad led to his appointment as the organizing secretary of the BJP's Gujarat unit in 1987.

In the 1990s, Modi continued to rise within the party, contributing to major campaigns such as Advani’s Ram Rath Yatra in 1990 and Murli Manohar Joshi's Ekta Yatra in 1991–1992. He took a brief break from politics in 1992 to establish a school in Ahmedabad but returned to electoral politics in 1994, partly at the urging of Advani. As party secretary, Modi’s electoral strategy was pivotal in the BJP’s victory in the 1995 Gujarat state assembly election. In November 1995, he was appointed national secretary of the BJP, responsible for activities in Haryana and Himachal Pradesh.

The following year, Shankersinh Vaghela, a prominent BJP leader from Gujarat, defected to the Indian National Congress. Modi, who was part of the selection committee for the 1998 Gujarat Legislative Assembly election, favored Keshubhai Patel's supporters over Vaghela’s, which helped end internal factionalism in the party. His strategy was seen as critical in the BJP’s victory in the 1998 election. In recognition of his success, Modi was promoted to BJP general secretary (organization) in May 1998.

Chief Minister of Gujarat (2001–2014)

Taking Office

In 2001, Gujarat Chief Minister Keshubhai Patel’s administration faced several challenges, including allegations of corruption, abuse of power, and poor management of the 2001 Bhuj earthquake aftermath. With Patel's political standing damaged, the BJP leadership sought a new candidate for the chief minister position. Modi, who had been critical of Patel's administration, was chosen as his replacement despite concerns over his lack of experience in governance. Modi initially declined an offer to become Patel’s deputy chief minister, stating that he would either take full responsibility for Gujarat or none at all. On 3 October 2001, Modi replaced Patel as Gujarat’s chief minister and assumed the responsibility of preparing the BJP for the upcoming 2002 state elections.

Modi was sworn in as Chief Minister on 7 October 2001 and entered the Gujarat state legislature on 24 February 2002 after winning a by-election in Rajkot II constituency, where he defeated Ashwin Mehta of the Indian National Congress (INC).

2002 Gujarat Riots

On 27 February 2002, a tragic incident occurred when a train carrying Hindu pilgrims returning from Ayodhya was set on fire near Godhra, killing approximately 60 people. The train was returning from a religious ceremony at the site of the demolished Babri Masjid. In the aftermath of the incident, Modi made public statements attributing responsibility to local Muslims. The following day, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad called for a bandh (general strike) across Gujarat, which led to widespread violence. Anti-Muslim riots erupted, and the violence spread through the state.

The government's decision to move the bodies of the train victims from Godhra to Ahmedabad further intensified the violence. The state government later reported that 790 Muslims and 254 Hindus had been killed during the riots, though independent sources claimed the death toll was over 2,000, with the vast majority of victims being Muslim. Over 150,000 people were displaced, forced to take refuge in camps. The violence was characterized by mass rapes, mutilation of women, and widespread brutality.

Critics have pointed to the Gujarat government’s complicity in the riots. Many scholars, both domestic and international, have criticized Modi and his government for mishandling the situation. While the government imposed a curfew in 26 major cities, issued shoot-at-sight orders, and called in the army to patrol the streets, the measures failed to halt the violence. The president of the Gujarat BJP supported the bandh, which was deemed illegal at the time. Riot victims, especially Muslims, were subjected to discrimination, and victims' compensation was initially unequal. State officials restricted access to refugee camps, which were unable to meet basic needs.

Modi's role in the 2002 riots has been a subject of controversy. He made statements suggesting that the violence was a result of a "chain of action and reaction." Later, Modi expressed regret only for how he had handled the media during the riots. In 2008, the Supreme Court of India reopened several cases related to the violence, including the Gulbarg Society massacre, and formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate. The SIT questioned Modi in 2010, and while it found no evidence against him, some experts argued that there were grounds for prosecution. Ultimately, the SIT's final report in 2012 concluded that there was no case against Modi. In 2022, the Supreme Court dismissed a petition challenging the SIT’s clean chit to Modi.

Later Terms as Chief Minister

Following the riots, there were calls for Modi to resign as chief minister from both within the state and outside, including from BJP allies. In response to criticism, Modi submitted his resignation in April 2002, but it was not accepted. The Gujarat legislative assembly elections were held in December 2002, and despite opposition to his leadership, Modi successfully led the BJP to a decisive victory, winning 127 of the 182 seats. Modi’s campaign made significant use of anti-Muslim rhetoric, framing criticism of his government as an attack on Gujarati pride. Modi was sworn in for a second term on 22 December 2002.

During his second term, the government's focus shifted from Hindutva (Hindu nationalism) to Gujarat's economic development. However, Modi’s relationship with Hindu nationalist organizations remained, and he continued to engage with certain factions of the Sangh Parivar, such as the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP). His government faced significant criticism for its stance toward Muslims, with Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee distancing himself from Modi following the 2004 general election. The US, UK, and EU had initially imposed travel bans on Modi due to concerns about his involvement in the 2002 riots, but these bans were lifted in the following years as Modi's political career progressed.

Modi's campaigns leading up to the 2007 and 2009 elections were characterized by his strong stance on terrorism and his criticism of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s policies. Modi’s relationship with Muslims remained a contentious issue, and his rhetoric during these campaigns continued to focus on Hindu nationalist themes, although he maintained limited relationships with specific Muslim groups, such as the Dawoodi Bohra community. Despite continuing tensions, Modi’s political standing remained strong, and he led the BJP to victory in the 2012 Gujarat Legislative Assembly elections.

After his victory in the 2012 election, Modi's political influence only grew, and he used innovative methods, including holograms and other technology, to reach a wider audience during his campaigns. In 2014, after being elected as Prime Minister of India, Modi resigned as Gujarat’s Chief Minister, with Anandiben Patel succeeding him.

Development Projects and Governance under Modi as Gujarat CM

Economic and Infrastructure Growth

Modi focused on transforming Gujarat into an investment-friendly state, emphasizing privatization, small government, and the creation of financial and technology parks. His tenure saw significant industrial growth, and the 2007 Vibrant Gujarat summit was a milestone with ₹6.6 trillion in investment deals.

Agriculture and Water Conservation

The government under Modi supported groundwater-conservation projects and improved cotton production. The Sardar Sarovar Dam was part of public irrigation efforts, although it had mixed success.

Power Reforms

Modi restructured the state's power distribution system, introducing Jyotigram Yojana to stabilize agricultural electricity supply. While this benefited large farmers and corporations, small farmers faced challenges.

Economic Growth vs. Human Development

Gujarat’s economic growth under Modi averaged 10% annually, but the state ranked poorly in human development, poverty reduction, nutrition, and education. Modi’s policies were criticized for exacerbating social inequalities, especially among Muslims, Dalits, and Adivasis.

Allegations of Bribery

Sahara-Birla Papers

Allegations of bribery surfaced following a CBI raid in 2013-2014, where references to payments made to Modi as Gujarat CM were found. Despite opposition claims and legal petitions, no formal investigation was conducted.

Modi's Prime Ministerial Campaigns

2014 Election

Modi's campaign focused on corruption scandals under the previous government and highlighted his "development" agenda. The BJP won a majority, and Modi was appointed Prime Minister, despite controversies over his role in the 2002 Gujarat riots.

2019 Election

Modi's campaign emphasized national security, especially after the Pulwama attack and Balakot airstrike. The BJP won again, with Modi securing a second term as Prime Minister.

2024 Election

Modi's campaign focused on the "Modi Ki Guarantee" slogan, contrasting with the opposition's guarantees. He won the Varanasi seat for the third time, and the BJP secured a majority, although their seat count declined slightly.

This comprehensive summary highlights Modi's political trajectory, economic policies, and the controversies surrounding his tenure both as Gujarat Chief Minister and Prime Minister of India.

Prime Minister (2014–present)

Swearing-In as Prime Minister

• 2014: After the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) secured a landslide win in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, Narendra Modi was sworn in as India's Prime Minister on 26 May 2014. He became the first Indian PM born after the country’s independence from British rule in 1947.
• 2019: Modi was sworn in for his second term after the NDA won the 2019 elections.
• 2024: Modi took office for the third term, following another victory in the general elections.

Governance and Other Initiatives

Centralisation of Power

• In his first year, Modi focused on centralising power within the executive, especially with his administration's control over the appointment of judges and reducing the role of the judiciary.
• Modi’s government passed ordinances in the absence of a majority in the Rajya Sabha, leading to criticism and comparisons with the governance style of Indira Gandhi.
• The Planning Commission was abolished in December 2014, and replaced by the NITI Aayog, which concentrated more power in the hands of the PM.

Investigations and Reforms

• Early in his tenure, the Modi administration initiated investigations into various civil society organisations, citing concerns that NGOs were hindering economic progress. This led to accusations of a "witch hunt."
• Modi repealed over 1,200 obsolete laws in the first three years, a significant change compared to the previous 64 years.
• The Digital India program was launched to enhance electronic governance and promote digital literacy across the country.

Social Welfare Programs

• In 2016, the Modi government launched the Ujjwala Scheme to provide free LPG connections to rural households, resulting in a significant increase in LPG access.
• In 2019, the government passed a law reserving 10% of educational admissions and government jobs for economically disadvantaged individuals.

One Nation, One Election

• In 2023, Modi introduced the idea of One Nation, One Election, which aimed to synchronise elections across the country on a single day or within a specified time frame. The bill was approved in September 2024.

Ethnic Tensions and Criticism

• Manipur Violence: Since May 2023, ethnic clashes in Manipur resulted in nearly 100 deaths and displacements, with Modi facing criticism for not addressing the violence more directly.

Hindutva and Hindu Nationalism

Rise of Hindu Nationalism

• After Modi became Prime Minister, the activities of Hindu nationalist organizations, like the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), expanded. The government was seen to support these activities, which included religious conversions and anti-Muslim rhetoric.
• The government’s connections to the RSS grew stronger, with RSS-affiliated individuals being appointed to prominent government roles, which led to concerns about cultural nationalism influencing government policies.

Citizenship Amendment Act and Controversies

• In 2019, the Modi government passed the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), granting Indian citizenship to non-Muslim religious minorities from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. This drew widespread protests and international criticism for discriminating against Muslims.
• The 2020 Delhi Riots were partly fueled by protests against the CAA, resulting in violence with Muslim communities being disproportionately targeted.

Constitutional Changes

• In 2019, Modi's government abrogated Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, which granted autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir. The region's special status was revoked, and it was reorganised into two union territories, Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
• The Triple Talaq practice was criminalised in 2019, and the government also introduced policies aligning with the RSS’s call for reforms.

Economic Policies

Economic Liberalisation and Reforms

• Modi's economic policies embraced neoliberal reforms, including privatisation, liberalisation, and foreign direct investment (FDI) liberalization, particularly in defence and railways.
• The Make in India initiative was launched to promote India as a global manufacturing hub, but critics argued it benefited foreign corporations more than local businesses.

Demonetisation and Goods and Services Tax (GST)

• In November 2016, Modi's government demonetised ₹500 and ₹1,000 banknotes to curb corruption and black money. The move led to cash shortages, job losses, and a contraction of GDP.
• In 2017, the government passed the Goods and Services Tax (GST), a major tax reform aimed at simplifying the tax system.

Social Welfare and Corporate Tax Cuts

• Modi's government reduced funds allocated for social welfare programs, leading to cuts in health and education spending.
• Corporate tax cuts were implemented, with the wealth tax being abolished. The government also increased sales taxes and customs duties on specific goods.

GDP Growth and Joblessness

• Under Modi, India's GDP growth slowed compared to previous administrations, averaging 5.5% in the first eight years, down from 7.03% during the tenure of Manmohan Singh.
• Unemployment reached its highest levels in 45 years in 2017, exacerbated by demonetisation and the GST rollout.

Infrastructure and Transportation

• While social welfare spending declined, capital expenditure on transport infrastructure increased, notably in sectors like railways and roads.

Foreign Policy of the Narendra Modi Government

Foreign policy played a secondary role in Narendra Modi's election campaign, not being a central theme in the BJP's manifesto. However, once in power, Modi's foreign policy, like that of his predecessor Manmohan Singh, focused on strengthening economic ties, security, and regional relations. Modi continued the "multi-alignment" strategy, aiming to balance India's global engagements and attract foreign investment, particularly from East Asia, with initiatives like "Make in India" and "Digital India." His government also sought to improve relations with Islamic nations in the Middle East, such as Bahrain, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, alongside fostering stronger ties with Israel.

Strengthening Relations with the United States

India's relationship with the United States saw significant improvement under Modi. Despite initial skepticism due to Modi's past as the Chief Minister of Gujarat and the 2002 riots, Modi's diplomatic efforts helped mend ties. In 2005, Modi had been denied a U.S. visa due to human rights concerns. However, after Modi's rise to power, U.S. President Barack Obama and later President Donald Trump both engaged positively with him, strengthening bilateral ties. Modi visited the U.S. several times, and the relationship deepened, particularly in defense and trade.

Engaging with Global Partners

Modi's early tenure saw numerous foreign visits to engage with key global powers. He attended various international summits, including BRICS, ASEAN, and G20, and visited countries like Nepal, where he pledged one billion U.S. dollars in aid. His visits to the U.S. were particularly notable due to the history of tension over the U.S. visa denial. These trips were aimed at enhancing diplomatic and trade relations.

"Look East" to "Act East" Policy

In 2015, India ratified a land-exchange deal with Bangladesh, initiated during Manmohan Singh's tenure, which Modi's government further supported. Modi emphasized a renewed focus on India's "Look East Policy," renaming it the "Act East Policy" to prioritize deeper engagements with East and Southeast Asia. This policy shift led to agreements to improve land connectivity with Myanmar, marking a departure from the previous emphasis on border security over trade with Myanmar.

Relations with China and Russia

The Modi administration faced rising tensions with China following the 2020 China–India skirmishes, which strained bilateral relations. Despite the growing conflict, India continued diplomatic talks with China to manage the border situation. On the other hand, Modi's relationship with Russia strengthened. In 2022, Modi formed a close personal rapport with Russian President Vladimir Putin, highlighted by defense agreements, including the purchase of the S-400 missile system, which reinforced India-Russia military cooperation.

Defence Policies under Narendra Modi

Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India's military spending steadily increased, but as a fraction of GDP and when adjusted for inflation, the military budget actually declined. A large portion of the budget was allocated to personnel costs, which many analysts believed hindered India's military modernization. Despite this, Modi's government launched a significant military modernization initiative aimed at strengthening defense preparedness and streamlining defense acquisition processes. Under the "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" campaign, Modi emphasized indigenous defense manufacturing, and the government made efforts to procure key weapon systems domestically. Policies from the Shekatkar Committee were also implemented to streamline defense procurement and rationalize spending. Additionally, India made attempts to establish Integrated Theatre Commands (ITCs) to improve jointness among the military services, though challenges in their operationalization remain.

Handling of Pakistan and China

Modi's approach to Pakistan was characterized by a firm stance, including repeated calls for the country to curb its export of terrorism. In September 2016, the Indian Army conducted a surgical strike against terror launch pads in Azad Kashmir, a move the Indian government claimed resulted in numerous casualties among Pakistani soldiers and terrorists. However, independent analysts and Pakistan denied the claims, and the actual impact of the strike was contested. In February 2019, India carried out airstrikes on a supposed terrorist camp in Pakistan, although open-source satellite imagery suggested that no significant targets were hit. Military skirmishes continued, including cross-border shelling and the loss of an Indian aircraft, with later admissions from the Modi government of friendly fire casualties among Indian personnel.

In 2020, India faced aggressive skirmishes with China along the disputed Sino-Indian border, particularly in areas like Pangong Lake and Ladakh. Clashes continued into 2021, but despite tensions, both nations held military and diplomatic talks. Modi’s government faced criticism for allegedly ceding land to China, with some reports suggesting that India lost about 2,000 square kilometers of territory to China since June 2020.

Defence Cooperation with Russia

In December 2021, Modi signed an agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin to extend military technical cooperation, marking a significant strengthening of bilateral defense ties. This included the purchase of the S-400 missile defense system, which further solidified the defense relationship between the two countries. Despite the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, India chose to remain neutral and refrained from condemning Russia's invasion of Ukraine. India's Operation Ganga was also launched to evacuate Indian nationals stranded in Ukraine, successfully bringing back more than 19,000 citizens.

Environmental Policies under Modi

Modi's administration made significant changes to environmental policies, renaming the Ministry of Environment and Forests to the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change. However, the budget allocation for environmental initiatives was significantly reduced in his first budget, and the government made several adjustments that diluted environmental protection laws, especially those related to industrial activities. Some controversial decisions included reducing oversight on small mining projects and lifting a moratorium on new industrial activities in India's most-polluted areas. These changes were welcomed by businesspeople but criticized by environmentalists.

Modi initially downplayed the issue of climate change, suggesting that it was the result of human behavior rather than changes in the climate itself. However, as his tenure progressed, he began advocating for climate action, particularly through the promotion of clean energy. In 2015, he launched the International Solar Alliance, encouraging investment in solar energy, and during the COP26 conference, India committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2070. This bold target was praised as a significant step in global climate action, and India became the only major economy on track to meet its Paris Agreement goals, achieving 10% ethanol blending ahead of schedule.

Democratic Backsliding under Modi

Under Modi's leadership, India has faced criticism for democratic backsliding. According to several studies, the BJP government has systematically undermined mechanisms designed to hold the political executive accountable, capturing or diminishing the influence of institutions like the media and the judiciary. Critics argue that Modi’s administration has used its democratic mandate to push forward a Hindu-nationalist agenda at the expense of economic development and civil rights, particularly during his second term as Prime Minister. The erosion of civil rights, freedom of speech, and press freedom has been a significant concern for many observers.

Public Perception and Image of Narendra Modi

Narendra Modi has maintained consistently high approval ratings during his tenure as Prime Minister. He is known for his energetic, workaholic personality and is seen as a frugal leader with a modest lifestyle. Modi's signature fashion, including his crisply ironed kurta and the famous pinstripe suit with his name embroidered on it, has made him a fashion icon. Despite being a controversial figure due to his role in the 2002 Gujarat riots and his association with Hindu-nationalist ideologies, Modi's strong leadership image has made him a popular figure both in India and internationally.

Throughout his premiership, Modi's approval ratings have remained high, with some polls showing him consistently above 80% in approval. His leadership has been particularly praised for economic reforms and his ability to bring about development. However, his government's hardline policies and Hindu-nationalist approach have also drawn significant criticism, with some viewing it as exclusionary.

Narendra Modi in Popular Culture

Narendra Modi's depiction in popular culture spans across various mediums, from films and television series to documentaries and music. His political journey and tenure as Prime Minister of India have been widely covered and portrayed in several formats:

Modi Kaka Ka Gaon (2017): The first biographical film about Modi, directed by Tushar Amrish Goel, starring Vikas Mahante as Modi.

PM Narendra Modi (2019): A Hindi-language biographical drama film directed by Omung Kumar, starring Vivek Oberoi, focusing on Modi's rise to the Prime Minister's office.

Modi: Journey of a Common Man (2019): A web series on Eros Now, starring Ashish Sharma in the titular role, exploring Modi's journey from a common man to the leader of India.

7 RCR (2014): A docudrama television series that covers Modi’s political rise, with Sangam Rai portraying Modi. The series includes episodes about Modi's early years, controversial moments, and his path to the Prime Minister's office.

Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019) and Avrodh: The Siege Within (2020): Modi's character is depicted in relation to the military operations, particularly the 2016 surgical strikes, with Rajit Kapur and Vikram Gokhale playing the role of Modi.

Man vs. Wild (2019): Modi appeared alongside Bear Grylls on Discovery Channel's reality show, becoming the second world leader (after Barack Obama) to feature on the show. The episode, filmed in Jim Corbett National Park, covered topics like nature and wildlife conservation.

Mann Ki Baat: Modi hosts a monthly radio program that engages with citizens on various issues, showcasing his communication skills and connection with the public.

Pariksha Pe Charcha: Modi engages with students in this initiative, discussing issues related to exams, stress management, and academic success.

Awards and Recognition

Modi's influence has been acknowledged through numerous awards and recognitions, both in India and internationally:

Time Magazine Covers: Modi has appeared on the cover of Time magazine multiple times, including in 2012 and 2014, recognizing him as one of the most influential leaders globally.

Time 100 Most Influential People: He has been named to this prestigious list several times, further cementing his global influence.

United Nations Champions of the Earth Award (2018): For his leadership in environmental sustainability and initiatives like the International Solar Alliance.

Legion of Merit (2020): Awarded by U.S. President Donald Trump for enhancing India–U.S. relations.

Seoul Peace Prize (2018): Recognized for his efforts in promoting peace and development.

Order of St. Andrew (2024): Modi was awarded Russia’s highest civilian honor for his role in strengthening India-Russia relations.

Order of the Niger (2024): Modi was conferred the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger during his visit to Nigeria, marking a key moment in India-Nigeria diplomatic ties.

Key to the City of Houston (2019): Awarded during the "Howdy Modi" event, attended by over 50,000 people, alongside U.S. President Donald Trump.

Writing Career and Contributions to Music

Modi has also made contributions as an author and in the music industry:

Books:

• Jyotipunj (2008): A Gujarati book profiling RSS leaders.
• Exam Warriors (for students): A motivational book to help children face exams.
• Modi has authored eight other books, mostly focusing on children’s stories.

Garba Songs: Modi penned the lyrics for two popular Gujarati garba songs, Garbo and Maadi, released in 2023 during Navratri celebrations.

Grammy Nomination: Abundance in Millets, a song featuring Modi’s speech promoting millet, received a nomination for the Best Global Music Performance category at the 2024 Grammy Awards.

References 

• Maheshwari, S. (2021) Prime minister Narendra Modi no. 1 in Global Approval Ratings, survey has done amid corona crisis., Scoop Beats. Available at: https://thescoopbeats.com/prime-minister-narendra-modi-no-1-in-global-approval-ratings-survey-has-done-amid-corona-crisis/ (Accessed: 14 January 2025).
• Narendra Modi (2025) Encyclopædia Britannica. Available at: https://www.britannica.com/biography/Narendra-Modi (Accessed: 14 January 2025).
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