Is Prime Minister Modi Truly Advancing Hindutva and Economic Growth?

I have often reflected on the impact of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, both in terms of his commitment to Hindutva and his economic policies. His government has presented itself as a transformative force, working to restore India’s cultural identity while simultaneously boosting economic growth. Many argue that Modi’s leadership has strengthened India’s global presence, reinforced Hindu unity, and set the country on a path to economic prosperity. However, a deeper analysis raises the question: Is this progress genuine, or is it a carefully curated narrative designed to maintain political dominance?

One of Modi’s most notable achievements has been his ability to bring Hindutva to the forefront of Indian politics. His leadership has redefined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as the primary custodian of Hindu interests, appealing to a significant portion of the Indian electorate that desires a stronger, more assertive national identity. Several of his government’s policies reflect this ideological shift.

The revocation of Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir, was a historic move that resonated deeply with nationalist sentiments. For decades, many Hindutva advocates had pushed for the removal of this provision, arguing that it hindered the full integration of Kashmir into India. By scrapping it, Modi demonstrated his commitment to a unified India, winning admiration from those who see this decision as a long-overdue step in restoring the country’s sovereignty.

The construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya is another key milestone. For decades, this issue remained a political and religious flashpoint, symbolizing the demand for the reclamation of Hindu heritage. Modi’s active role in facilitating the temple’s construction cemented his image as a leader dedicated to Hindutva. It was not just about building a place of worship; it was about fulfilling a promise that resonated with millions of Hindus who saw this as a victory for their faith and cultural pride.

Economically, Modi’s government has positioned India as a rising global power. Initiatives such as Make in India, Digital India, and Startup India have sought to modernize the economy, encouraging investment and innovation. The push for digitization, particularly through the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), has revolutionized financial transactions, bringing millions into the formal banking system. Many argue that these policies have positioned India as a serious player in global markets, attracting foreign investments and strengthening trade relations.

Another major achievement of Modi’s tenure has been his handling of international diplomacy. India’s growing influence in global forums such as the G20, the Quad, and BRICS has demonstrated his strategic vision. Under Modi, India has managed to balance its relations with both Western powers and countries like Russia and China, maintaining a nuanced foreign policy that prioritizes national interest. His administration has emphasized self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat), aiming to reduce dependency on foreign imports and encourage domestic manufacturing.

For supporters, these accomplishments reinforce the idea that Modi is not just a politician but a visionary leader who is reshaping India’s identity and economic future. They argue that he is fulfilling the long-standing aspirations of millions of Indians who believe in Hindutva and economic self-sufficiency.

While Modi’s supporters hail his leadership as transformational (I was one of them), I cannot ignore the counterarguments that challenge the depth and authenticity of his achievements. Many critics argue that his governance is driven more by spectacle than substance, with key issues either being exaggerated for political gain or failing to deliver tangible benefits to the common citizen. Hindutva, as projected by the Modi government, has been accused of being more about electoral strategy than genuine ideological commitment. While Modi and his party frequently speak of Hindu unity, some believe that their actions are selective and politically motivated. For instance, Modi has carefully distanced himself from the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in public discourse, despite his roots in the organization. This has led to speculation that his version of Hindutva is less about real Hindu solidarity and more about political branding that appeals to the majority while maintaining plausible deniability.

Economically, there are significant concerns about the reality of India’s growth. We can question the authenticity of the statistics presented by the Modi government. The claim that India is one of the fastest-growing economies is challenged by experts who argue that much of this growth is not trickling down to the masses. Unemployment remains a pressing issue, and inflation continues to strain the middle class. If the economy were truly booming, why do so many Indians still struggle with job insecurity and rising living costs?

The startup and digital revolutions, often touted as key successes of Modi’s government, also deserve scrutiny. While UPI has indeed transformed payments in India, it does not address deeper economic concerns such as the decline in manufacturing, weak job creation, and the slow growth of small businesses. The hype around startups does not change the fact that India’s traditional industries, which employ the bulk of the workforce, are facing stagnation. Moreover, government policies have often favored large corporate entities while small and medium enterprises (SMEs) struggle to survive under regulatory and financial pressures.

Another critical issue is the suppression of dissent. Under Modi’s rule, the media landscape has become increasingly controlled, with independent journalism facing significant challenges. Voices critical of the government often find themselves targeted, whether through legal action, social media manipulation, or outright intimidation. The lack of transparency and the government’s reluctance to engage in open debates about economic data and policy failures indicate a governance style that prioritizes image management over accountability.

Foreign policy, though strong in certain areas, has also shown vulnerabilities. The government’s handling of China, for example, has been inconsistent. While Modi initially fostered strong ties with Beijing, India has faced ongoing border tensions and territorial losses. Despite nationalist rhetoric, the government has often downplayed these threats rather than taking a strong stance. Additionally, the reliance on the United States and Western alliances raises questions about India’s true strategic independence.

Finally, there is the question of whether Modi’s leadership truly represents the best path forward for India. The centralized control of power within the BJP, the sidelining of veteran leaders, and the increasing dominance of Modi’s personality over institutional decision-making raise concerns about the long-term health of India’s democracy. While his leadership style is effective in rallying mass support, it also raises fears about the erosion of democratic norms, where opposition voices are marginalized, and decision-making is concentrated in a single leader.

Progress or Political Illusion?

When I step back and analyze Modi’s tenure, I see a complex picture. On one hand, there is undeniable progress—India has gained international recognition, Hindu nationalism has been mainstreamed, and digital transformation has modernized key sectors. On the other hand, there are legitimate concerns about economic stagnation, democratic backsliding, and the selective application of Hindutva for political advantage.

So, the real question is: Is Modi truly advancing Hindutva and economic growth, or is his leadership more about crafting a compelling narrative that sustains his political dominance? As India moves forward, this debate will continue to shape the country’s future, forcing citizens to critically assess whether they are witnessing genuine transformation or merely an illusion of progress.