Since assuming office in 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a transformative journey to foster development and unity across India. His leadership is characterised by a steadfast commitment to bridging regional disparities and promoting inclusive growth, transcending traditional divides between the North and the South. Through a series of initiatives and development projects, PM Modi has revitalised long-stalled schemes, initiated new corridors, and emphasised linguistic diversity, laying the groundwork for a more cohesive and prosperous nation. PM Modi has reignited not just the connectivity across the nation but also the cultural diversity that unites India as well. PM Modi in the last decade has made it a point to take world leaders to various parts of India highlighting diversity of India. The G20 event that was presided by India, witnessed the travel of foreign dignitaries from the Islands of Andaman and Nicobar to Kashmir.
Cultural Connect
His historic outreach through the Kashi Tamil Sangamam, his instituting a Chair on Tamil Studies at the Banaras Hindu University, his relentless championing of Tamil and its classical culture, his unveiling of iconic philosopher, reformer, poet Basavanna’s statue in Lambeth, London, his repeated references to the Tirukkural, his citing lines from the iconic Tamil poet of the Sangam age, Kaniyan Pungundrunar, in the United Nations General Assembly emphasising the need for united action to address civilisational crisis has shown how interlinked and integral is the cultural, religious and civilisational ethos of India.
Several initiatives have taken shape to highlight cultural connect those various parts of India share. Notable among these is the revival of the Kashi Tamil Sangamam, a cultural event celebrating the rich heritage of Tamil language and literature in the historic city of Varanasi (Kashi). This initiative not only honors linguistic diversity but also promotes cultural exchange and understanding between the north and the south.
Similarly, the Saurashtra-Tamil Sangamam, which brings together speakers of Saurashtra and Tamil languages, serves as a platform for cultural exchange and mutual appreciation. The Modi government fosters a sense of belonging and unity among people from diverse linguistic backgrounds by reviving such cultural events and promoting linguistic harmony.
The cultural connect was further highlighted when PM Modi, had installed the Sengol, which represents the values of fair and equitable governance once part of ancient India. Today citizens of India come together to not just share but learn the various cultures that are in practise even today.
Furthermore, the government's emphasis on harnessing AI for language learning ensures that every person in India has access to resources for acquiring proficiency in multiple languages. Whether it's Tamil in Uttar Pradesh or Bengali in Gujarat, AI-driven language learning platforms enable individuals to connect with different linguistic communities, fostering a sense of inclusivity and understanding.
Empowering States and Promoting Cooperative Federalism
PM Modi's approach to governance emphasizes cooperative federalism, empowering states to drive their own development agendas while receiving support from the centre. Initiatives like the NITI Aayog provide states with a platform to collaborate on development strategies, including those related to linguistic and cultural preservation. By empowering states to celebrate and preserve their linguistic heritage, the government strengthens the fabric of national unity while respecting regional diversity.
Moreover, initiatives such as the Smart Cities Mission prioritize the development of urban infrastructure and services, taking into account the linguistic and cultural diversity of urban populations. By investing in the creation of inclusive and accessible urban spaces, the government ensures that people from different linguistic backgrounds can thrive and contribute to the nation's progress.
Political Connect
The opposition, in its run to General elections 2024, has claimed PM Modi’s influence in the south has diminished despite the various development projects that have been initiated and completed within the time frame, which was unheard of. The recent Assembly elections that were held in 2023, which included several of the states in the south of India, witnessed a growth not just in vote share but seats as well. The BJP has increased its vote share in Telangana from 6.98 per cent in 2018 to 13.90 per cent in the 2023 assembly elections. BJP had three seats in the outgoing assembly and it has won eight seats this time, more than doubling its tally. BJP candidate, Katiapally Venkata Ramana Reddy, in a historic feat, defeated sitting Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao and state Congress president Revanth Reddy in their bastion of Kamareddy.
Improving its tally in Mizoram, for instance, the BJP won the Saiha and Palak constituencies. Saiha has a literacy rate of 90.1 percent and is 97.1 percent Christian. Palak has a literacy rate of 93.6 percent and is 98.2 percent Christian. The BJP has repeatedly proved its pan-India presence and acceptance. It has emerged as the principal Opposition party in West Bengal after decades of democratic struggle and persistence.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat encompasses economic development, infrastructure growth, linguistic cohesion, and cultural harmony. By reviving cultural events like the Kashi Tamil Sangamam and promoting initiatives that celebrate linguistic diversity, the Modi government fosters a sense of belonging and unity among people from diverse linguistic backgrounds. Coupled with investments in connectivity, infrastructure, and AI-driven language learning, these efforts pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous nation where everyone can contribute to and benefit from India's growth story.
