Very few and most exceptional leaders across centuries have ignited the spirits of countless individuals, and their influences have endured long for countless times. Recently, India has been gifted with one such persona: PM Modi, who, as a futurist, is busy shaping the Bharat of today and that of tomorrow. He has demonstrated elements of futurism in his vision and policies by implementing several forward-looking initiatives.
In his address to the nation, he often prefers to be referred to as "Pradhan Sewak" of the nation. A "Pradhan Sevak" dedicated to the nation's service and who consistently places Indians at the forefront of policy formulation, the interest of his fellow citizens is paramount for him. His commitment to human rights democracy and extensive experience gathered during public service made visible both the quantum and quality of welfare programs delivered for the underprivileged segments of society. This underscores the empathetic nature of the highest office, attuned to the struggles and needs of all Indians, especially the disadvantaged segments of society.
Under his guidance, ample opportunities are provided to these people who are marginalised in society due to lack of access to opportunities, lack of awareness, and neglect by previous regimes. Celebrating and crossing the 75th year of the Republic, these people who were suffering between empty promises and false assurances for 64+ years now are in mainstream contributing in their own means to nation-building. Every initiative taken through schemes such as PM SVANidhi, Shram Yogi Maan-dhan (PM-SYM) pension scheme, SMILE, etc, have not only increased their confidence but the tireless efforts have ensured that their dignity and standard of living improved, making them self-reliant. Even IMF research credits PM Modi government for eliminating extreme poverty from India, wherein 25 crore have been pulled out of poverty in the last decade. The world and Indians endorse it as its scale and size are unsurmountable marvels to emulate.
PM SVANidhi has replicated the roller-coaster success of Jan Dhan Yojana, ending as a revolutionary credit growth at the bottom of the pyramid with 79 lakh loans exceeding the valuation of Rs 9,790 crore, empowering 60 lakh micro-preneurs (urban street vendors). SBI research points out that this scheme serves as a gender equaliser with a 43 % female participation rate, which catapults urban women's entrepreneurial talents and catalyses social harmony, with a staggering 75% of beneficiaries hailing from non-general categories.
Approximately 44% of the total disbursements went to OBCs, with SCs/STs securing a significant 22% share. Due to banks' modest infusion of seed capital, 68% of microprenuers advance from loans worth Rs 10,000 to Rs 20,000, and 75% leapt to Rs 50,000. It contributed to a 6% increase in formalisation through new government schemes (Deposits + Credit) from FY14 to FY23. Microprenuers ascended the spending ladder, with a Rs 28,000 increase in their average annual spending within just two years. In FY23, the average debit card expenditures for PM SVANidhi account holders surged by 50%, reaching Rs 80,000, a notable increase from FY21, which dispels claims of uneven spending patterns post-pandemic.
Another noteworthy initiative that serves the pressing needs of unorganised workers at the grassroots level and enhances their quality of life is the PM Shram Yogi Maan-dhan (PM-SYM). Forty-nine lakh enrolments are now assured of the old age pensions. Efforts like the Shramjeevi Superfast Express also aided stranded migrant workers during the darkest hours of their lives, protecting them from the wrath of the COVID pandemic. Through the national platform, eShram utilises Aadhaar to streamline tracking and inclusion of unorganised and migrant labourers, 29 crore registered workers safely access to job opportunities, skill development, apprenticeships, digital training, and state programs.
Under PM Modi's guidance, the government is dedicated to eradicating the social exclusion experienced by marginalised communities, including transgender individuals and beggars. An initiative known as SMILE (Support for Marginalised Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise) has been introduced to address issues of poverty, begging, and the rehabilitation of transgender people.
Despite being the head of the government, the PM never turns his eyes off to reality. During his speeches, he respected Shramjeevis for their contribution towards crafting New India, whether the Parliament building or any public development project. Elevating his commitment to cleanliness to new heights, he attended to the feet of five sanitation workers, two of whom were women, honouring them as 'karma yogis' and expressing gratitude for their efforts in maintaining cleanliness at the Kumbh Mela site.
While praising our skilled software engineers for winning accolades for India in international forums, he has never missed out on respecting our Shramjeevis and skilled artisans as symbols of the true spirit of self-reliant India. PM Modi-led government considers such people as Vishwakarma of New India.
These actions affirm the inclusivity inherent in his governance approach, showcasing outreach that transcends class, caste, region, and religion barriers, going beyond mere electoral considerations. No wonder such thoughtful actions garner the blessings and support of countless street vendors, unorganised workers, and marginalised sections, lending fervour and providing thrust to India's path towards inclusive growth.
