Twelve years after Narendra Modi became Prime Minister, promising 'minimum government, maximum governance', India stands transformed. The transformation is real, but some aspects are also troubling.
Economic Growth and Global Standing
The economy is stronger. India grew by a remarkable 7.7% in 2025-26 despite Trump's tariffs and the Iran war. It has overtaken Japan to become the world's fourth-largest economy. The state is also more digitised and capable.
Implementation of Existing Schemes
The NDA government did not invent many programmes transforming India but implemented them so well that they are now linked with Modi, who has surpassed Jawaharlal Nehru's record as the longest continuously serving elected Prime Minister. Bank accounts for all and Aadhaar were conceived by the UPA. Rural electrification, rural roads, and sanitation all predated 2014. But under his government, Aadhaar enrolment expanded from 65 crore to 140 crore, and Jan Dhan accounts from almost zero to 55 crore. Swachh Bharat built 11 crore toilets. Virtually every rural house now gets electricity.
Political Contests Intensify
Despite these achievements, the republic has become more contested. The political landscape is marked by heightened polarization and debates over democratic institutions. The stronger state has also raised concerns about centralization of power and the health of federalism.
