Narendra Modi - 1 year Review

Times files fast, as they say. In this case, it has already been a year since we have had a Narendra Modi led govt. My review so far is that it is a mixed bag, with more positives than negatives. Firstly, he brings a lot of energy and passion to the table, which was completely missing in last 10 years. Yes, having full majority helps, but then you also need to have the persona, thought process and political nimbleness to capitalise on the mandate. Modi has done that spectacularly well. He has understood the power of connect and being available 24*7 and he has done that very nicely. He is active on Twitter, FB and even on Linkedin. And also does the monthly "Mann ki Baat" sessions on various topics. So on communication, I will give him 10/10. His foreign policy has been amazing. As was required, he has been on a whirlwind tour and has visited more than 16-17 countries in a short span and shown tremendous zest for diplomacy. He has personally created great rapport with the world leaders; And we are talking about some super powers and very confident developed country heads here. Be it China, Japan, UK, Australia or Germany; he has developed a relationship with all at a personal level. He has expanded the definition of nationalism and literally included all the NRI's in his fold. This is great TV and also important from a geo-strategic perspective. So on foreign policy as well, would give him 10/10. Economics has been good too Pace of reforms could have been a bit faster, but then he needed to establish his credentials first before he and Jaitley can go for more reforms. With the authority properly established and several steps taken towards sustainable reforms, Modi and Jaitley duo are well on way to achieve a lot more in 2nd and 3rd year of their govt. Would give them a respectable 7/10 on economy. The one to worry about is education and health. On both counts, Modi needs stronger leadership and insisters in place. Irani seems to be mired in controversies and I don't know who is the health minister. We need to increase the focus on health and education and increase the spending as well as promote more private funding in both areas. Priary healthcare or preventive healthcare and primary education needs tremendous focus. Clean India is good and has brought in a lot of awareness, but a lot more needs to be done in this area. Would give him a 4/10 on both education and healthcare. In first year, he could have done more, specially in the days when he was in India and not travelling. Overall, a solid start with all the right intentions. I wish him all the very best and hope he will take India to her rightful place. For that reason, may the Force Be With him and all the Indians !!