The Gujarat unit of the Indian National Congress launched a sharp critique against the central government on Monday, accusing the Narendra Modi-led administration of systematically renaming more than 30 public welfare schemes that were originally launched during Congress rule. The party labeled this a "name changer" mentality and claimed the exercise has led to a massive wastage of public funds.
The 'Name Changer' Allegation and Financial Cost
State Congress media convener Manish Doshi spearheaded the attack, stating that while the Congress party historically launched schemes focused on social justice and national development, the current BJP-led Union government lacks foresight. He asserted that by rebranding these initiatives, the government has earned the tag of a 'name changer'.
Doshi made a significant financial allegation, claiming that crores of rupees from the public treasury are being spent on this renaming spree. He put a rough estimate on this expenditure, stating that approximately Rs 5,000 crore has been wasted on renaming schemes and making new announcements.
A Long List of Rebranded Initiatives
The Congress spokesperson provided a detailed list of schemes whose names have been altered by the Union government since 2014. He stated that 32 schemes launched by Congress between 1975 and 2013 have seen their identities changed.
The most recent and prominent example cited is the flagship Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). According to Doshi, it has been rebranded as the Viksit Bharat-Guarantee for Rozgar and Aajeevika Mission (Gramin) or VB-G RAM G.
Other major rechristenings highlighted by the Congress include:
- Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan becoming Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.
- National Manufacturing Policy transformed into Make in India.
- Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojana changed to Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana.
- Indira Awaas Yojana rebranded as Pradhan Mantri Gramin Awaas Yojana.
- National e-Governance Plan evolving into Digital India.
- Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission turned into AMRUT.
- Swavalamban Yojana converted to Atal Pension Yojana.
The list further encompasses changes in health, agriculture, and skill development programs, such as the Universal Immunization Programme to Mission Indradhanush, and the National Skill Development Programme to Skill India.
Contrasting Visions and Political Narrative
Through this critique, the Congress party aims to draw a clear distinction between its governance philosophy and that of the BJP. Doshi's statements frame the Congress's historical approach as one centered on social justice and long-term national welfare.
In contrast, the renaming of schemes is portrayed as a superficial act that lacks substantive policy innovation. The allegation of wasting Rs 5,000 crore is intended to resonate with public sentiment against unnecessary government expenditure, especially on branding and publicity.
This accusation from Ahmedabad adds to the ongoing political discourse as the parties position themselves on their respective records in governance and public administration. The debate goes beyond mere names, touching upon the legacy of schemes, the continuity of policy, and the perceived priorities of the ruling dispensation.
