PM Modi Delivered What He Promised From Red Fort. A Report Card

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who delivered his 11th Independence Day speech from the ramparts of the Red Fort on August 15, 2024, advocated for the implementation of the Secular Civil Code (Uniform Civil Code), One Nation One Election, greater emphasis on women security, safety of Hindus in Bangladesh, world looking towards India as investment hub, advance technology among others objectives.

The Prime Minister, who is known for his excellant oratory skills, also cornered the opposition saying some are pessimist who only wants to take the nation backwards. In a 360 degree change from past, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, unlike his predecessors especially the Gandhis, brought a fresh energy in Independence Day speeches. The content in his I-Day addresses has remained fresh, innovative, inspiring, motivating, new, modern, practical, reflection of ground reality and futuristic at the same time to match the global pace. Through his speeches when he made new promises, the Prime Minister never hesitated presenting report cards of his government performance unlike the former ones, who only wanted to preach the nation instead taking accountability.

PM Modi through I-Day speeches always took an opportunity to give a roadmap of India's development, government goals and how far they've progressed. Here’s a look at his promises over the years and how they have played out.

Financial Inclusion

Year of Promise: 2014

In his first ever Independence Day address as Prime Minister in 2014, he promised to bring banking services to every household in India.

Year of Report Card: 2015

By 2015, PM Modi announced the opening of 17 crore zero-balance accounts in just one year under the Jan Dhan Yojana.

Current Status: 2024

The Jan Dhan Yojana has grown significantly, with nearly 53 crore bank accounts being operational, marking a significant step in financial inclusion. This scheme has expanded access to credit and financial services across the country. The scheme has also been a catalyst on curbing corruption through direct benefit transfer of government schemes. 

Rural Transformation

Year of Promise: 2014 and 2019

PM Modi first introduced the Adarsh Gram Yojana and promised electricity for over 18,000 villages. In 2019, he launched the Jal Jeevan Mission to provide tap water to rural areas.

Year of Report Card:

• 2015: Achieved significant progress in toilet construction.
• 2016: More than 2 crore toilets were built.
• 2017: Over 14,000 villages were electrified.
• 2021: Over 4.5 crore families started receiving piped water.
• 2023: Concrete roads are being constructed in villages.

Current Status: 2024

These initiatives have greatly improved rural infrastructure and living conditions, reflecting a successful transformation of village life.

Equal Stakeholders

Year of Promise: 2014

PM Modi emphasized the importance of building toilets to improve sanitation.

Year of Report Card: 2021

The government achieved its goal of constructing toilets in all households, contributing to significant improvements in public health and sanitation.

Current Status: 2024

The focus has shifted from women’s development to women-led development, showcasing a transformative impact on gender equity.

Push for Manufacturing

Year of Promise: 2014

PM Modi launched the ‘Make in India’ campaign to boost domestic manufacturing.

Year of Report Card: 2021 and 2022

The 'Atma Nirbharta' (self-reliance) campaign was reinforced, positioning India as a key player in global manufacturing and supply chains.

Current Status: 2024

The emphasis has been on making India a global manufacturing hub, with ongoing initiatives like Production-Linked Incentives (PLI) further strengthening this vision.

A Promise to the Nation in the Darkest Hours

Year of Promise: 2020  

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, PM Modi promised a robust vaccination drive.

Year of Report Card: 2021 and 2022

By 2021, over 50 crore doses were administered and that too of indigenously developed vaccines, and by 2022, this number exceeded 200 crore doses, marking a significant achievement in public health.

Current Status: 2024

The vaccination drive remains one of the notable successes of PM Modi's tenure, showcasing effective crisis management.

For the Farmers

Year of Promise: 2014 and 2016

PM Modi’s slogans of ‘Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan’ highlighted support for farmers, with promises of better farm inputs and insurance.

Year of Report Card: 2018

By 2016, the government had implemented a nationwide insurance program for farmers. By 2018, over Rs. 1.5 lakh crore in claims had been settled.

Current Status: 2024

The focus has expanded to include better market access and diversification in agriculture, continuing to support the farming community.

Building for Tomorrow’s India

Year of Promise: 2016

PM Modi promised to fast-track completion of stalled infrastructure projects.

Year of Report Card: 2023

The National Infrastructure Pipeline, valued at over Rs. 100 lakh crore, reflects the government's commitment to infrastructure development.

Current Status: 2024 

Infrastructure remains a key focus, with significant investments and projects in progress.

North East India

Year of Promise: 2015  

PM Modi highlighted the need for improved infrastructure and connectivity in North East India.

Year of Report Card: 2018

New educational institutes, sports facilities, and enhanced connectivity were established in the region.

Current Status: 2024 

Continued development and attention are being directed towards North East India, improving its overall infrastructure and opportunities.

Digital India

Year of Promise: 2014

Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced the concept of Digital India to leverage technology for development.

Year of Report Card: 2018 and 2022  

Progress included advances in digital infrastructure, including 5G, and the spread of optical fiber networks.

Current Status: 2024  

Digital India has made international strides, reinforcing India's position in the global digital landscape.

As Prime Minister Modi delivers his August 15, 2024 speech, this review of promises and achievements illustrates the ongoing journey of India’s development under his leadership.