A plethora of policies in first year

MODI@365

• Modi has his task cut out for him
• Overall economic situation looks better
• Foreign policy raises stature of India
• Farmers’ distress not addressed adequately
• In defence, Air Force strength being boosted
• FDI inflows rise; defence, insurance opened up
• Not much achieved on the education front
• Social schemes reach out to common man
• Public healthcare remains poor
• Separate ministry for skill development set up

The Narendra Modi government, which will complete a year in office on May 26, won the last year election on the plank of development and its promise to bring in ‘Acche Din’. Here is a performance snapshot. Let's first turn to the economy. The economy observed three broad-level trends. First, there was the global fall in commodity prices that led to a gain for oil importing countries as their import costs suddenly reduced from approximately $120 a barrel to $60 a barrel.

Second was the government's acceptance of the 14th Finance Commission's recommendations in the context of devolving more funds to the state governments. The figure now stands at 42 per cent of the total revenue collection, up from the earlier 32 per cent. Third was the revived economic growth forecasts by IMF, which in its April 2015 report revised its forecasts for India to 7.5 per cent ahead of any other major developing economy, including China.

The ADB similarly pointed to a bettering economy with core inflation down to 5 per cent. With an overall bettering situation, the economy scores 7.5 out of 10. Let's now turn to the area where there was much "sound and fury" - namely foreign engagement and defence. But unlike the phrase it did signify India’s increasing global stature and aspirations. It included, among other things, trips by many domestic/foreign dignitaries to and from India. The resolve to talk and negotiate contentious border issues was also observed.

The passing of the Bangladesh Land Accord Bill was a historic step aimed at transferring enclaves with a clear demarcation of territory. In the defence sphere, there was the decision to acquire 36 Rafale fighter jets that was again an imperative since the squadron strength of Indian Air Force is already down to 35 against a sanctioned strength of 42. Adding two more squadrons will help India protect to some extent its skies. Overall a score of 8.5 out of 10 on foreign engagement and 7.5 out of 10 on defence.

The agricultural sphere witnessed erratic weather and the lack of urea availability made the overall condition bad. Added to this was the land acquisition bill that made matters worse for the government as well as the farmers. The land bill will help the farmers have alternative sources of income and provide employment to youth. The government’s focus seems to be on irrigation schemes and helping farmers in distress. But much more could have been done and communicated appropriately. An overall score of 6.5 on 10.

The industrial, FDI and power sectors saw varying degrees of success, the most successful being the power sector with an increase in coal production as well as an increase in power capacity and generation. The FDI inflows also saw a spurt in the equity inflows as well as the fact that defence and insurance have been opened up to 49 per cent foreign participation bodes well for the economy. The industrial sector was a bit subdued in spite of the Make in India programme. Some more steps need to be taken for making Make in India successful. Overall a score of 6.5/10 for industries and a score of 8/10 for power.

The education sector saw many schemes being launched like the GIS mapping of schools, the Swachh Vidyalaya Abhiyan and the like. However, the historical legacy of the education system fails to let go. Therefore, parents prefer private schooling to government schools. Also, with respect to higher education, mere opening of institutions will not serve the purpose. Quality and quantity should be the twin pursuits. An overall score of 6.5 out of 10.

In the context of infrastructure, the primary purpose seems to be the creation of new infrastructure as well as upgradation of existing infrastructure. Infrastructure development is a must since the speed of business relies on it. The upgradation of railways and creation of new highways all fall under infrastructure’s ambit. Also included are ports, airport, waterways and canals. The clearance of projects worth Rs 6 lakh crore makes it amply clear that infrastructure growth is likely to be expected in the coming years. Overall a score of 7.5 on 10.

The social schemes have been very impressive and in the reach of the common man. The Jan Dhan Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Jivan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) and Atal Pension Yojana schemes together have close to 19 crore takers. The government seems to have a social focus for benefitting the poor. An overall score of 8 on 10.

In the context of urbanization, the 100 Smart Cities project has not seen that much activity, barring the launch of GIFT city and the development of DMIDC cities. An overall score of 6.5 on 10. Health is an area where the government has not been able to do much apart from the rise in prices of cigarettes. The state of rural health delivery remains decrepit. Pollution in the environment – air, water, land and noise has ensured that people continue to face serious health issues. An overall score of 6 on 10.

With respect to entrepreneurship and employment, this is the first time that a ministry has been created with a focus on entrepreneurship. Skilling of youth and entrepreneurship are crucial areas for realizing the demographic dividend. Further, a draft policy on skill development and entrepreneurship has already been made and put out for public consultation. The direction and intent seem to be good. Overall a score of 7.5/10.

The government’s plans, policies and functioning overall seem to be in line with the country’s overall growth and trajectory. With respect to the challenges, the government seems to be prepared with adequate steps. In the coming years, most of the things will depend on the pace of decision-making and speed of implementation.

By Amit Kapoor