As the Modi Government completes 11 years at the Centre, BJP leaders across India have launched a grand campaign to showcase the achievements of the past decade. What the BJP presents as a celebration of governance, the opposition terms a promotional exercise ahead of upcoming elections. Yet, the political debate aside, it is an opportunity to take stock of the transformation India has undergone. From launching social welfare schemes to initiating massive infrastructure projects and establishing India’s voice on global platforms, the Modi era has undeniably brought a visible shift. Prime Minister Modi himself took to social media to express pride in the progress of India and its rising global stature. With India’s economy now among the fastest growing in the world and significant progress in sectors such as digital technology, renewable energy, and infrastructure, there are indeed several milestones to acknowledge. One of the pivotal moments came after the surgical strikes post-Uri attack, which signaled a new doctrine in India’s counter-terrorism strategy. India’s assertive stand against terrorism and its global projection through multilateral forums has bolstered its diplomatic presence. However, as the nation embarks on the 12th year of Modi’s leadership, the expectations are even higher. While the economic and diplomatic strides are evident, challenges like inflation, unemployment, and equitable development remain pressing. The editorial rightly points out the urgent need for a comprehensive youth employment and entrepreneurship policy. Despite India’s demographic dividend, the untapped potential of youth remains a concern. To harness this power, a strong ecosystem for innovation, skill development, and industrial growth — especially in rural and semi-urban areas — must be prioritized. The nation must shift focus from being merely a consumer market to becoming a manufacturing and innovation hub. India’s global aspirations are now backed by tangible achievements — from G20 leadership to the Chandrayaan and Aditya missions — but real progress will be when prosperity reaches the last mile. The call to action is clear: provide the youth with platforms, skill training, and opportunities to lead the next phase of growth. In this next chapter, India’s development must not be just a narrative of numbers, but a lived reality for every citizen. The 12th year of Modi’s leadership must be defined by inclusive growth, job creation, and visionary governance that gives every Indian a reason to be proud.
