On June 9, 2024, Narendra Modi was sworn in as Prime Minister of India for an unprecedented third consecutive term, breaking the record held by the country’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. This accomplishment further solidifies his position as a pivotal leader in India’s modern history.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has witnessed significant strides in strengthening its internal and external security and building a resilient defense system over the past decade. As 2024 comes to a close, here’s a look at some of the pivotal initiatives and transformative decisions taken by the Modi government this year to accelerate the nation’s development.
Resolution of the Ayodhya Dispute and Inauguration of the Ram Temple
One of the most historic milestones achieved during this period was the resolution of the long-standing Ayodhya dispute, culminating in the inauguration of the Ram Temple on January 22, 2024. This marked the fulfillment of a centuries-old aspiration and is regarded as a significant achievement under Modi’s leadership
Massive Infrastructure Push with ₹3 Lakh Crore Projects
Domestically, the government approved infrastructure projects worth ₹3 lakh crore, including the construction of eight National High-Speed Road Corridors covering 900 kilometers.
Tax-free policy for individuals earning up to ₹7 lakh annually
For the middle class, the government introduced a tax-free policy for individuals earning up to ₹7 lakh annually, along with increased standard deductions, enabling significant savings for salaried citizens.
Development of 63,000 Tribal Villages Under the Tribal Campaign
The Modi government also focused on tribal and rural development by launching the Developed Tribal Villages Campaign, targeting the transformation of 63,000 tribal villages. In addition, the Namaste Scheme was rolled out to empower sanitation workers and waste collectors socially and economically.
Expansion of the Ayushman Bharat Health Scheme
In the health sector, the Ayushman Bharat scheme was expanded to provide free health insurance of up to ₹5 lakh for citizens aged 70 and above. The government also approved the creation of 75,000 additional medical seats, addressing a critical gap in healthcare education.
Boost to Space Startups with ₹1,000 Crore Venture Capital Fund
To boost India’s growing space economy, a ₹1,000 crore venture capital fund was established to support startups in the space sector. This initiative is expected to enhance India’s global competitiveness in space technology and innovation.
Diplomatic Breakthrough During Russia Visit
In a notable diplomatic achievement, Modi’s visit to Russia post his third-term election included bilateral discussions with President Vladimir Putin. This resulted in a significant agreement for the release of Indian soldiers previously serving in the Russian army, showcasing India’s growing global influence.
International Recognition with Prestigious Awards from Guyana and the Dominican Republic
Prime Minister Modi also received international recognition in 2024, being honored with the highest civilian awards by Guyana and the Dominican Republic. These accolades, the “Order of Excellence” from Guyana and the “Dominic Award of Honour” from the Dominican Republic, were conferred for his efforts in strengthening bilateral relations and supporting global initiatives during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Under Modi’s leadership, India continues to demonstrate a balance between tradition and modernization, setting new benchmarks for governance and development.