The Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance is expected to win the Indian parliamentary elections, although with a reduced majority compared to the 2019 elections. With the NDA leading in nearly 290 seats, the opposition Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance is trailing with 230 seats. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a popular figure, but concerns about unemployment, inflation, and governance are dominating voter’s minds, potentially impacting the overall outcome of the election.
Unemployment has become a significant concern for many Indians, with nearly 62% of respondents stating that it has become more difficult to find a job in the last five years during Modi’s second term. The country’s unemployment rate rose to 8.1% in April, further highlighting the challenges faced by the population. The economy’s impact on the electorate is evident as market indexes saw a significant plunge when trends showed that BJP might fall short of a clear majority.
Under Modi’s rule, India has experienced robust economic growth, with the GDP expanding by 8.2% in fiscal year 2024. The International Monetary Fund projects continued growth for India in the coming years. Modi’s focus is on making India one of the world’s top three economies, fighting poverty, and opening new avenues for growth. While the economic progress has been significant, concerns have been raised about the democratic decline in the country under the ruling party.
The upcoming term for the Modi government aims to continue economic growth, address poverty, and combat corruption. The focus is also on defending India against adversaries like China by strengthening defense manufacturing capabilities. The BJP manifesto outlines key areas of focus for the future, aiming to maintain India’s position as one of the world’s top economies while ensuring social welfare and development for its citizens.
Despite criticisms of the BJP government’s approach to democracy, many see the Indian electoral process as a testament to the country’s strong democratic fundamentals. India’s elections draw attention to the country’s dynamic growth and its rising status on the global stage. As the election results unfold, it will become clearer how the country’s political landscape will evolve and what the future holds for India under Modi’s leadership.
