Returning from a meditation retreat at the close of India’s arduous election, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reflected in a column about experiencing a “boundless flow of energy” within himself. As he prepares to embark on an unprecedented third consecutive term, Modi, 73, faces the challenge of navigating a coalition government, a departure from his usual solo leadership style.
For the first time in his political career, which commenced in 2001 when he assumed the role of chief minister of Gujarat, Modi must accommodate the interests of coalition partners, given his party’s failure to secure a majority on its own.
Described as a “lone wolf” by political commentator Arati Jerath, Modi now finds himself in a novel role that demands adjustment and adaptation. Addressing leaders of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) coalition, Modi emphasized equality among coalition members and expressed confidence in their collective decision-making capabilities.
Despite his enduring popularity and high approval ratings, the loss of a majority in the recent election may prove challenging for Modi, who has dominated Indian politics over the past decade. His leadership has often been synonymous with the ruling alliance, prompting concerns about democratic governance and India’s trajectory.
While Modi has pledged to lead India towards transformative change in his third term, a reduced mandate necessitates a cautious approach. The BJP’s ambitious agenda, including the introduction of common civil laws, may face obstacles in a more fragmented political landscape.
As Modi prepares to steer India forward, he envisions a future where the country emerges as a fully developed nation by 2047. However, achieving this vision will require navigating the complexities of coalition politics and addressing the diverse needs of India’s populace.
