Narendra Modi government at 12: Milestone in history, long road to future

In its own words “sabka saath, sabka vikas, sabka vishwas” is the animating spirit for the Narendra Modi government that crosses a historic milestone today — Modi is now the longest continuously serving elected Prime Minister India has known. “Sabka vishwas” is especially resonant. It frames both the achievement and the challenge. After all, a three-term prime ministership would not be possible without public trust that is sustained and renewed over 12 years and counting. That, too, in an environment brimming with rising aspirations and shifting engagements, impatient choices accelerated by disruptive technologies. But “sabka vishwas” is also a reminder of an unfinished journey, a challenge yet to be fully met. Be it finding a language to address the restlessness of the young, which has come to the fore in recent weeks because of a compromised examination system, or showing them the light of opportunity as headwinds batter the economy, or breaking a longer silence to assuage minority insecurities — a government that has made room for itself to reach out and do things that may even defy its own political script, needs to make the circle of trust more encompassing.

In many ways, the Modi government broke with a past that had congealed into the status quo and reaped the benefits. It put in place an architecture of welfare benefits that harnesses new technologies to streamline delivery, designed social safety nets — from health insurance to foodgrains — that have ensured stability even in times of great disruption like Covid-19. On the world stage, it has navigated a new, confident course for India in a time of war and flux and Trump tariffs. Politically, at home, it has shifted the centre of gravity to the right, while implementing its “core” commitments, from building the Ram temple to scrapping Article 370, to finding new flashpoints like “ghuspaithiya (illegal immigrant)” to keep the momentum going. Tired old favourites have been relegated, across sectors, from freeing the Padma awardees of darbaris — and there are many crowding that line — to the fading of old personnel and priorities. Twelve years on, however, it may be time for a reset. A politics of polarisation is rising, and the new elites nurse a permanent sense of grievance and, more disquietingly, a winner-takes-all policy. The government needs to send a message that it is open to talent, and that it will resist the reflex to label and domesticate it.

Overall Analysis

This editorial is a balanced assessment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s twelve years in office, recognizing his government’s achievements while highlighting the challenges that remain unresolved. Rather than being entirely celebratory or critical, the article adopts an evaluative approach, examining both accomplishments and shortcomings through the lens of governance, public trust, and political leadership.

The editorial begins by emphasizing the significance of Modi becoming India’s longest continuously serving elected Prime Minister. It identifies “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas” as the guiding principle of his government and argues that such longevity in office reflects sustained public confidence. However, the phrase “Sabka Vishwas” is also presented as an unfinished promise, suggesting that trust must continually be earned and expanded.

The article then shifts to areas where the government faces challenges. It points to youth dissatisfaction arising from examination irregularities, economic uncertainties affecting employment opportunities, and concerns among minority communities. The author suggests that political success alone is insufficient; a truly inclusive government must address anxieties across all sections of society. The language here is persuasive and reflective, encouraging broader engagement rather than confrontation.

In evaluating the government’s record, the editorial acknowledges several major achievements. It credits the administration with modernizing welfare delivery through technology, expanding social security measures, managing crises such as the Covid-19 pandemic, and enhancing India’s international standing. It also notes the fulfillment of key ideological commitments, including the Ram Temple and the abrogation of Article 370. These references demonstrate the government’s ability to reshape both policy and political discourse.

However, the final section introduces a note of caution. The author argues that after twelve years, the government may need a “reset.” Concerns are raised about increasing political polarization, growing social divisions, and the emergence of a winner-takes-all mentality. The editorial ultimately calls for greater inclusiveness, openness to talent, and a broader circle of trust. The underlying message is that long-term leadership requires not only decisive governance but also reconciliation, accommodation, and institution-building.

Important Vocabulary (5)

1. Resonant – having deep significance or emotional impact.
2. Assuage – to ease or reduce worries, fears, or concerns.
3. Congealed – become fixed, rigid, or resistant to change.
4. Flux – a state of continuous change or uncertainty.
5. Polarisation – the division of society into sharply opposing groups or viewpoints.

Conclusion & Tone

The editorial views the Modi government’s twelve-year tenure as a period of significant political transformation and policy innovation but argues that future success depends on expanding inclusiveness and rebuilding trust across all sections of society. It praises achievements while urging course correction in areas where divisions and dissatisfaction persist.

Tone: Balanced, reflective, analytical, and cautiously critical.