Narendra Modi Sworn in as India’s Prime Minister for a Third Term

Narendra Modi Sworn in as India’s Prime Minister for a Third Term

On June 9, 2024, Narendra Modi took the oath as India's Prime Minister for a historic third term. This event marked a significant milestone in Indian politics, showcasing Modi's enduring leadership and the evolving political landscape of the world's most populous democracy. The ceremony, held at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, was attended by thousands, including international dignitaries, Bollywood stars, and business leaders. Modi's ability to form a coalition government with 14 regional parties will be a key factor in navigating the challenges and opportunities of his new term.

A Historic Milestone

Modi's swearing-in for a third consecutive term is a historic milestone, making him only the second leader after Jawaharlal Nehru to achieve this feat. His Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), despite an unexpected electoral setback, managed to secure a coalition government with the support of 14 regional parties, part of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). This development is notable because, in his previous two terms, the BJP had secured an outright majority.

The Ceremony

Dressed in a white kurta tunic and blue half-jacket, Modi was greeted with enthusiastic cheers from his supporters. He expressed his honor to serve the nation, posting on social media just moments before the ceremony. Following Modi, senior ministers from the previous government, including Rajnath Singh, Amit Shah, Nitin Gadkari, and others, took their oaths, although their specific roles have not yet been disclosed.

The Coalition Government

The formation of a coalition government introduces new dynamics to Modi's leadership. Political analysts, such as Zoya Hasan from Jawaharlal Nehru University, have suggested that the coalition could lead to internal frictions. Prominent allies like Chandrababu Naidu and Nitish Kumar are seasoned politicians with their own agendas, potentially challenging the BJP’s nationalist policies. This coalition government will test Modi’s ability to maintain policy certainty and cohesion among diverse political partners.

Economic and Social Challenges

Modi’s third term comes with significant challenges. Despite India’s impressive economic growth rate of 8.2% in the last fiscal year, domestic issues like unemployment, high prices, and widening economic disparity remain pressing concerns. Modi has acknowledged these issues, emphasizing the importance of the middle class in driving the country’s progress. He has pledged to focus on increasing middle-class savings, improving quality of life, and adjusting regulations to benefit this key demographic.

International Perspectives

International media has highlighted various aspects of Modi's third term. The New York Times noted the transformative political atmosphere in New Delhi with the introduction of coalition partners. The BBC emphasized the resurgence of India’s opposition, reflecting the more competitive nature of the recent elections. Al Jazeera pointed out the potential challenges in maintaining policy certainty within a coalition government. Bloomberg and AFP provided detailed coverage of the grand ceremony and the pivotal role of coalition partners in the new government.

Conclusion

As Narendra Modi embarks on his third term, the political landscape of India is poised for both challenges and opportunities. Balancing coalition dynamics, addressing economic disparities, and navigating social issues will be crucial for Modi’s administration. The world watches as Modi and his government work to steer India towards continued growth and stability, ensuring that the diverse needs of its population are met.

This historic third term is not just a testament to Modi’s political acumen but also a significant chapter in India’s democratic journey. Modi's leadership will be closely observed as he strives to fulfill the promises made to the Indian populace and navigate the complexities of a coalition government.

Reference

• India's Narendra Modi sworn in as country's prime minister for a third term - Al Jazeera
• Political air appear transformed: How foreign media covered Modi 3.0 oath - NDTV
• India Prime Minister Narendra Modi third term - NPR
• India election results 2024 updates June 9, 2024 - The Hindu

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