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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.)

Starlink’s India Entry: Strategic Move or Security Risk?

Updated: Mar 17, 2025


Starlink’s India Entry
Elon Musk

In a news-making announcement, London-based Bharti Global and Ahmedabad-based Jio Platforms Ltd confirmed that SpaceX’s Starlink has formal business ties with both major Indian telecom players to enter the vast Indian market—a sector with strategic implications. The move raised questions about broader national security concerns.


Before Starlink, India already had one of the world’s cheapest, densest, and fastest internet networks. Its 5G penetration is unmatched. By 2027, internet users in India are expected to exceed 1 billion, with over 90% of households online. India has developed its own telecom standard, 5Gi, to boost remote connectivity. Under BharatNet, nearly 2.64 lakh Gram Panchayat and non-Panchayat villages are being connected with optical fiber. The Bharat 6G Alliance and the government’s Multiplatform Next-Generation Networks Task Force are prioritising research into space-terrestrial integrated networks.


In the U.S., Starlink cannot sideline telecom giants like T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon. In February 2025, T-Mobile and Starlink launched a direct-to-device beta for low-coverage areas. In India, Starlink targets the premium segment with pricier services than BSNL, which is still rolling out 4G. So the question isn’t just about business—it’s why these tie-ups matter.


Telecom hardware autonomy is vital for India, a lesson learned during 5G development when Chinese equipment delays caused setbacks. Now, with Starlink, India risks relying on the U.S. for space integration with its domestic networks. The larger question: why aren't India’s space and telecom sectors collaborating more closely? Where is the spirit of Aatmanirbharta?


For 25 years, India and the U.S. have built strong ties. India modified the foundational military agreements—CISMOA, LEMOA, and BECA—to suit its needs. Notably, the India-specific CISMOA, COMCASA, signed in 2018, is relevant here.


Starlink is a monopoly backed by SpaceX, which uniquely combines satellite and rocket launch capabilities—an edge unmatched even by China or Russia. SpaceX’s dominance earns bipartisan support from the White House and Pentagon. India is now seeking collaboration with this monopoly. While COMCASA is military in scope, it also facilitates high-tech transfers. Starlink’s entry fits this second purpose.


Can India match SpaceX’s launch volume? For now, no. ISRO and New Space India Limited can build only 3–4 PSLVs a year unless more rockets are commissioned. The bar is high—SpaceX’s Falcon 9 had 134 launches in 2024 alone, carrying 22–23 Starlink satellites (about 17–18 tonnes) per launch. Even if Jio and Airtel build their own satellites, forming a full constellation requires frequent, high-capacity launches—something only SpaceX currently offers.


Concerns over Starlink’s entry into India are valid. So far, Starlink has been indirectly involved in gray zone warfare in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, partly due to U.S. government actions. Non-state actors and proxies have used Starlink for geopolitical aims. Black market sales of user terminals remain largely unchecked—one was even found with a secessionist group in Manipur.


Adding to the concerns is Elon Musk himself—a figure even Trump struggles to decipher. Musk has openly expressed his intent to support preferred national leaders via his X platform, echoing regime-change tactics once linked to covert U.S. operations—though he aims to do so publicly. Both Democrats and increasingly uneasy Republicans are growing wary of his overreach.


Indian public life values decency, respect, and decorum. No reputable leader or businessperson wants to hear something like, “Be quiet, small man, there is no substitute for Starlink,” as Musk told Poland’s foreign minister. India’s business and political leaders will tread carefully with someone trying to monopolise social media, telecom, and space—knowing monopolies rarely last.


Airtel still holds stakes in Eutelsat OneWeb, while Jio has partnered with Luxembourg-based SES to build a satellite constellation. Few know that BSNL already offers direct-to-device satellite connectivity via U.S.-based Viasat. Indian satellite firms are securing government contracts to develop domestic constellations. The PSLV is being privatised through a consortium of L&T and HAL. ISRO’s new Small Satellite Launch Vehicle is also up for private manufacturing by Alpha Design, Adani Defence, HAL, and Bharat Dynamics. Within a few years, India will have fully commercialised satellite launch and manufacturing.


More importantly, the case for large constellations like Starlink is weakening globally. Astronomers fear interference with observations, while scientists warn of heavy metal pollution from satellite burnouts. Environmental concerns in Earth’s orbit are growing, with France pushing sustainability talks via the Paris Peace Forum. Smaller constellations will emerge once viable technical and business models are available—and that day isn’t far.


The Jio and Airtel partnership with Starlink is likely temporary and will require geopolitical, political, and business resilience to succeed. Even if it falters, both telecom giants have contingencies. As for the Indian government, it plays like a seasoned centurion—respecting a good delivery and punishing a full toss with Rohit Sharma-style ease. This is one such good delivery from the US.


(The author is a Space and Emerging Technology Fellow at the Centre for Security, Strategy and Technology, Observer Research Foundation, Mumbai.)

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