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By:

Devendra Fadnavis

9 June 2026 at 5:42:34 pm

Trust, Development and India’s Rise

The story of India’s rise in the last decade has been marked by economic reform, infrastructure expansion and renewed national confidence When a public journey completes twelve years, it is often seen as a significant milestone marked by perseverance, dedication and an unwavering commitment to a larger goal. Therefore, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi completes twelve years of leadership, this period must be assessed through the lens of sustained effort, transformative governance and...

Trust, Development and India’s Rise

The story of India’s rise in the last decade has been marked by economic reform, infrastructure expansion and renewed national confidence When a public journey completes twelve years, it is often seen as a significant milestone marked by perseverance, dedication and an unwavering commitment to a larger goal. Therefore, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi completes twelve years of leadership, this period must be assessed through the lens of sustained effort, transformative governance and measurable outcomes. Viewed from this perspective, these years represent a remarkable era of service, commitment and good governance. Every enduring journey has two dimensions. When it is undertaken for the welfare of society, its benefits ultimately reach society itself and positively impact diverse sections of the population. The outcomes of Prime Minister Modi’s efforts are visible in the unprecedented transformation witnessed in the lives of ordinary citizens. From 2014 to 2026, his twelve-year tenure has emerged as a defining phase in India's contemporary history. It has not merely been a period of political leadership, but a unique confluence of trust, development, good governance, cultural resurgence and public welfare. Global Leader Today marks another significant milestone. As an elected Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has completed 4,399 consecutive days in office, surpassing the record set by Jawaharlal Nehru. Some may argue that comparisons between Nehru and Modi are inappropriate. However, when Nehru assumed office, there was a widespread perception that he had no political alternative. By contrast, when Modi became Prime Minister, Indian democracy had matured considerably. Citizens understood both the power and significance of their vote. They were aware of their aspirations and expectations, and recognised that governments exist to serve public welfare. It was under these circumstances that Modi assumed office in 2014. The electorate entrusted him with responsibilities that successive Congress governments had failed to fulfil over five decades. Accepting that challenge, he articulated the vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas,” which later evolved into “Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas.” After securing victories in 2014, 2019 and 2024, he today stands at the forefront of India’s emergence as a global leader. The mandate of 2024, following the decisive verdicts of 2014 and 2019, was not merely an electoral victory. It represented a renewed endorsement of development, good governance and stable leadership. Modi became the first leader since 1962 to serve a third consecutive term as Prime Minister. At a time when many democracies across the world are grappling with political instability, India chose continuity, stability and decisive governance. Over the past decade, the country has strengthened its position through economic reforms, social transformation, infrastructure development, national security and an assertive foreign policy. The more than twenty-four highest civilian honours conferred upon him by nations around the world reflect this growing global recognition. This has not been the journey of a single leader alone; it has been a collective national endeavour. As a result, India’s economy has expanded from approximately $2 trillion to $4.18 trillion, making it the world’s fourth-largest economy. Economic prosperity is indispensable for achieving social justice. Modi not only recognised this reality but also worked consistently to realise it. Initiatives such as Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat instilled confidence among Indians and enhanced global trust in Indian products. Today, demand for indigenous defence equipment has risen so sharply that projected production for the next decade may struggle to meet requirements. This reflects the true strength of a self-reliant India. Historic Achievements One of the government’s historic achievements has been the substantial reduction of Left-Wing Extremism across twelve affected states. Regions that remained untouched by development for decades are now witnessing tangible progress. Nearly 20 crore people had long lived under the shadow of fear and deprivation. Naxalism stalled development and adversely affected thousands of young lives. Today, the situation is changing. Industrial projects, including steel plants, are being established in areas such as Gadchiroli. Universities, medical colleges and major educational institutions are being set up. The voice of development is gradually replacing the sound of conflict. Over the last twelve years, India has witnessed unprecedented growth in infrastructure development. The national highway network has expanded from approximately 91,000 kilometres to nearly 1.46 lakh kilometres. Highways are being constructed at an average pace of 34 kilometres per day. Under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, millions of kilometres of rural roads have transformed the lives of farmers, students and rural communities. Railway electrification has accelerated significantly, while initiatives such as Vande Bharat Express and the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme have redefined the image of Indian Railways. The country’s metro network has grown from 248 kilometres to more than 1,095 kilometres. The Modi government has placed the farmer at the centre of the development agenda. Through the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi, direct financial assistance has been extended to more than 11 crore farmers. Significantly, the first file cleared during the government’s third term pertained to farmer welfare, underscoring this priority. Under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana, the “Per Drop More Crop” initiative has brought millions of hectares under micro-irrigation. Agricultural output has reached record levels, and India has emerged as the world’s largest producer of milk. Through the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana, free food grains have been provided to 81 crore citizens. More than four crore families have received permanent homes under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. The Ujjwala scheme has enabled over eleven crore women to access LPG connections. Under Ayushman Bharat, millions of citizens have benefited from free health insurance coverage. The Jal Jeevan Mission has ensured access to clean drinking water for more than sixteen crore households. Women’s empowerment has occupied a central place in government policy. Women account for a significant share of Jan Dhan account holders. The Lakhpati Didi initiative has helped millions of women achieve greater economic independence. Programmes such as Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, maternity benefits, the strengthening of self-help groups and the growing participation of women in the armed forces have advanced the vision of women-led development. Digital Transformation India has also scripted a new chapter in digital transformation. Through the JAM trinity—Jan Dhan, Aadhaar and Mobile—lakhs of crores of rupees have been transferred directly to beneficiaries. India has emerged as a global leader in UPI transactions. BharatNet has connected lakhs of gram panchayats through optical fibre networks. Digital governance, faceless taxation and the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) have enhanced transparency and efficiency in public administration. India today engages with the world on the basis of equality and mutual respect. The nation seeks trade, investment and technology, but without compromising its dignity or self-respect. During the Russia–Ukraine conflict, India demonstrated its ability to pursue an independent foreign policy, placing national interests above external pressures. Today, India is the world’s fourth-largest economy. Initiatives such as Make in India, Startup India and the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme have accelerated manufacturing growth. India has become the world’s second-largest mobile phone manufacturer. Electronics production has increased manifold. Significant investments have been attracted for semiconductor manufacturing, and the country is rapidly positioning itself as a global manufacturing hub. Encouraged by policy support, India’s startup ecosystem has grown to more than two lakh startups and hundreds of unicorns. During these twelve years, India has also reaffirmed its cultural identity with renewed confidence. The construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, Mahakal Lok and the redevelopment of Kedarnath have infused new energy into the nation’s spiritual consciousness. Modi, who began his public life by paying homage to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, has also advanced initiatives such as the Panchteerth dedicated to Dr B.R. Ambedkar, the observance of Birsa Munda Jayanti as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, the Statue of Unity honouring Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, commemorative initiatives for Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Kartavya Path and the new Parliament building—each symbolising national pride and identity. Maharashtra has been among the principal beneficiaries of this development trajectory. Prime Minister Modi has extended support to the state in addressing its major developmental needs and challenges. From facilitating land for the Indu Mill Memorial to supporting projects such as the Amravati Textile Park, Vadhvan Port, Navi Mumbai International Airport, Samruddhi Mahamarg, Atal Setu, the Coastal Road and metro rail networks, his backing has been instrumental in advancing key infrastructure initiatives. Today, the world no longer views India merely as a large market. It increasingly recognises India as a reliable, responsible nation capable of contributing solutions to global challenges. India stands confidently on the world stage. These twelve years have laid a strong foundation for the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. The journey of trust, development and people’s participation is poised to gather even greater momentum in the years ahead—a belief shared by millions of Indians. (The writer is the Chief Minister of Maharashtra.)

Attempts to reap political benefits would be counter-productive: CM

Mumbai: While making it clear that the state government considers the agitation initiated by Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange-Patil to be a socio-economic in nature, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday warned the opposition of trying to reap political benefits of the agitation and said that such attempts would be counter-productive.


The CM also made it clear that the government does not intend to stop the protestors midway and would allow them to reach Mumbai and hold protests within the frame of law.


"If the protest follows the rules and regulations set for it, we have no problem with that," the CM said.


He also defended the government’s viewpoint regarding Maratha quota while pointing out that the demands being pushed by the activists to give Maratha reservation from the OBC quota actually go against the interests of the Maratha community.


"You know that there are about 350 castes in the OBC category. If we look at medical admissions, for example, the cut off marks for OBC category are higher than that for the SEBC category and the SEBC cut off is even higher than that of the EWS category. So, I don't know how much good this demand (of granting Maratha reservation from within OBC quota) will do. If you look at the statistics carefully, you will understand what is in the best interest of the Maratha community."


CM Fadnavis also said, "It is also the responsibility of the Maratha community to study what is in their best interest and then make a demand. But, one thing is true, that there will be no political reservation in the SEBC category. If political reservation is the goal, then it's a different matter. If the goal is not political reservation and it is a fight for social and economic change, for getting jobs and admissions, then at least some intellectuals should consider this demand."When asked about the attempts to reap political benefits of the agitation, Fadnavis  said, “You all have seen what happened before. Even today, you can see who is mobilizing resources for the protest. But that's fine. My point is that for us, this protest is not political; we see it through a social lens. Some political parties are trying to benefit by using them as a pawn, but they will suffer a big loss, not a gain.”


Fadnavis also stated that neither the Maratha nor the OBC communities will be subjected to injustice. "The Maratha community has been given reservation, and it has also been upheld in court. We will not take away anyone's reservation. No one should go beyond the framework of democracy. The leaders of the Maratha community should study the issue and then make a demand."


The legal tangle

Jarange Patil's main demand is to include the Maratha community in the OBC category. This demand has not been fulfilled since 1960. Even the Mandal Commission refused to classify the Maratha community as backward. The fact is, the conclusion of many commissions that the Maratha community is backward, have not been upheld by the Supreme Court. To bring down the mounting pressure, the government might offer some temporary assurance. But, such patch works couldn’t stand legal scrutiny is what history tells us.


Government started issuing OBC certificates to those holding 'Maratha-Kunbi' or 'Kunbi-Maratha' records in 2004. Before that it was available only to those who had 'Kunbi' records.Currently, Marathas in Maharashtra receive reservation under SEBC. However, that doesn’t help them get a quota in the central government under OBC category. If this current reservation, which is limited to Maharashtra, does not hold up in court, a problem may arise. However, in that case, the EWS (Economically Weaker Section) option is available to Marathas.Due to the SEBC reservation, the EWS (Economically Backward Class) reservation is not applicable to Marathas in Maharashtra.


Those with 'Kunbi' records take reservation in central and state services as OBC, while those with 'Maratha' records take it under EBC or SEBC.

The Maratha community is the only one to receive dual reservations.


In Maharashtra, there is 19% reservation for OBCs. The remaining 8% is for specific categories like VJNT (Vimukta Jati and Nomadic Tribes), special categories, etc. Jarange Patil's demand is to include the Maratha community, which consists of 550 sub-castes, in the 19% OBC reservation. This means his goal is to leave the separate 10% reservation and compete within the 19% category.


If this happens, the benefits currently available as both OBC and EBC/SEBC for open categories would have to be forgone.


This means that entering the 19% category would be like hitting one's foot with a stone, especially when there are more opportunities available now.

Jarange Patil's honest intentions should not be doubted. But, facts are sacred.On the other hand, the government too is not innocent. They ignored the issue for four months even after Jarange Patil warned of a protest. When the protest began, they used harsh language to criticize Jarange Patil, which further fueled the protest.


The then Shinde-Fadnavis government issued an order regarding 'Sagesoyare' (relatives by marriage) because the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections were approaching. Now Jarange Patil is asking them to implement it. As a result, hundreds of thousands of people, led by Jarange Patil, are marching to Mumbai. Hence, it will be interesting to see how they placate Jarange- Patil or find some other superficial answer to buy time.


Over 1,500 cops deployed at Azad Maidan

The Mumbai police on Thursday deployed over 1,500 of its personnel at the Azad Maidan in south Mumbai to maintain law and order situation in view of activist Manoj Jarange's indefinite fast to press for the Maratha reservation demand, officials said.


 Jarange, 43, has earlier announced that he would launch an indefinite fast at the Azad Maidan from August 29. He along with thousands of supporters left his native Antarwali Sarati village in Jalna district on August 26. On Thursday morning, he reached Shivneri fort, the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and later proceeded to Mumbai.


In view of the protest, the police have put in place security arrangements at the Azad Maidan. They expect more than 20,000 protesters in south Mumbai, an official said.


Besides the local police, one company each of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Rapid Action Force (RAF) and Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and Maharashtra Security Force (MSF) are also deployed at the protest venue and its surrounding areas to avoid any untoward incident, he said.

Some units of the central forces that are in Mumbai to provide security during the ongoing Ganesh festival, have been diverted for the Maratha quota protest, the official said.


Even as the protest is set to begin from Friday, protesters from all over the state have started gathering at the Azad Maidan. The police have granted permission to Jarange to stage his agitation there only for a day, with the number of protesters not exceeding 5,000.


"The BJP and Devendra Fadnavis must uphold Rajdharma and honour the promises given to the community. With a huge majority in Maharashtra and the BJP in power at the Centre, they should go to Delhi and remove the 50 per cent cap on reservations."

Harshwardhan Sapkal, President, Maharashtra Congress

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