Has Narendra Modi Done Anything for Non-BJP Ruling States?
The performance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in different states across India is often a subject of debate. Focusing on non-BJP ruling states, particularly Andhra Pradesh (AP), this article explores the claims and counterclaims regarding his governance and the effectiveness of his policies.
Criticism of AP Situation
One of the notable criticisms against the current government is the handling of the Hud Hud cyclone in 2019. Narendra Modi visited Visakhapatnam after the cyclone, treating the tour more like a picnic. Despite the reported loss of 400000 crore, the central government promised to help but eventually released only 2000 crore, leading to substantial damage and a lack of assistance. In comparison, Tamil Nadu actors showed more generosity in helping fisherfolk.
Demonetization and Its Impact
The 2016 demonetization policy initiated by Mr. Narendra Modi had a significant impact across all states of India, aimed at curbing black money and counterfeit currency. While not a direct policy favoring a specific state, it had a profound effect on the economy and financial transactions. The opening of crores of bank accounts to facilitate the cashless economy is another notable achievement.
Main Policy Initiatives and Their Reach
The Atal Pension Yojna, Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana, and Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana are accessible to everyone irrespective of the ruling party. These schemes offer accident insurance and death insurance, respectively. While progress is seen in non-BJP states, infrastructure projects like national highways do not show notable growth.
Recent Policies and Their Implementation
Recently, a house construction loan interest waiver was declared with the hope that it would reach Bengal through banks. Other than that, there is no significant activity reported in the state. Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Yojana has seen its effects in central-run institutes, while Make in India initiatives have yet to make a significant impact.
Challenges and Criticisms
Despite the various initiatives, many face challenges such as corruption, lack of proper execution, and inefficiency in implementation. Digital India, under which government is tying up with institutes and NSDC, has seen some progress. However, the quality of training in Skill India or NSDC programs is questionable, with most participants joining these programs for certification rather than genuine skill development.
Conclusion
In summary, while Narendra Modi's policies have touched almost every state in some form, the implementation and effectiveness vary. Non-BJP ruling states may not see the direct benefits and improvements that BJP states do. The Smart City Project, Unearthen Black Money Bill, Namami Gange project, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, and other initiatives may not have had a noticeable impact, and more data and transparency are needed to assess the true benefits of these programs.
Overall, the critique raises important questions about the distribution of resources and the governance of a nation that boasted of inclusive policies. Only time will tell whether these policies will yield tangible benefits for all regions of India.