The Indian middle class has long been the driving force behind the nation’s economic growth and cultural progress. This is the class that is said to be catalysing and forging social cohesion and harmony. For decades, this section has navigated social challenges and uncertainties with resilience and courage. While previous governments have proven to be insensitive and indifferent towards this section’s needs and demands, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not only acknowledged their concerns but also actively empowered them through transformative policies and reforms.
From secure digital payments to affordable housing, from reduced taxes to expanded healthcare, and from vibrant startup ecosystems to enhanced infrastructure, the government has crafted a robust framework to uplift the middle class, building a robust sense of financial security and social stability.
When it comes to marking one of the most significant initiatives taken up by the PM Modi-led government, financial inclusion can be listed at the top. Amongst all policy measures and reforms undertaken by the government since 2014, Unified Payments Interface (UPI) can be termed as the one that has made digital transactions in India accessible and inclusive.
It is because of this strategically formulated measure that the payments are now instant, safe, and secure, eliminating transactional fraud. There is unprecedented confidence among the middle class now, enabling them to adopt and get adapted to the process of digital banking, without fear of cyber threats or inefficiencies. This shift has not only streamlined cash flow and transactions but also empowered small businesses and individuals, encouraging them to participate in the digital economy seamlessly.
Tax reforms have further alleviated the financial burden on the middle class. Those earning up to Rs 12 lakh per annum (Rs 12.75 lakh in the case of salaried individuals due to the standard deduction) will now not have to pay any tax under the new regime.
This move indicates increased savings, thereby leaving middle-class families with more disposable income and options. They can now invest, without the fear of uncertainties, in education, healthcare or savings, among others, allowing them to contribute their share in building a robust economy. Thus, through this measure, the government has ensured that the middle class retains more of their hard-earned money, enabling them to plan for a secure future.
Housing is another area of concern where aspirations of the middle class soar high. Having a house of one’s own gives a sense of comfort and security to any person. This dream has been made attainable through Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY)-Urban. With nearly 1.2 crore homes sanctioned, this scheme has made homeownership a reality for the middle class.
The growth of investment options further underscores the government’s commitment to making the middle class more financially empowered. The unprecedented growth and participation in the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), Atal Pension Yojana, and other government savings schemes reflect a surge in financial awareness. EPFO, with 8 crore active members and over 78 lakh pensioners now, ensures social security for the aspiring middle class.
These measures initiated under the PM Modi-led government have provided the middle class with secure and accessible options to grow their wealth, ensuring long-term financial safety.
Additionally, the Ease of Doing Business reforms have lowered barriers for middle-class entrepreneurs, enabling them to launch startups or scale small businesses. Over 17 lakh direct jobs have been created by the startups. Additionally, nearly 76,000 of these startups have at least one-woman director, reflecting the growing presence of women entrepreneurs in India. Simplified regulations, access to credit, and digital platforms like the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) have created an ecosystem where the middle class witness their dreams turning into reality.
Beyond financial empowerment, the middle class is provided with enhanced physical and social security to a greater extent than what was provided during previous government rules. From condemning violence to launching full-blown crackdowns on terrorism, PM Modi has left no stone unturned when it comes to protecting the nation and its citizens. PM Modi’s mantra of zero tolerance against terrorism has led to a drastic reduction in incidents, restoring confidence and mental peace among the nationals. Operation Sindoor is the latest example of PM Modi’s bold and befitting reply to state-sponsored terrorism and attacks against India.
When it comes to social security, the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act has been a game-changer for those investing in homes. With RERA’s launch in 2016, the PM Modi-led government ensured that the consumers gained more transparency and accountability in real estate transactions. Coupled with the SWAMIH Investment Fund, which focuses on completing stalled housing projects, the government has addressed one of the middle class’s biggest fears - the fear of being abandoned or losing their family homes. These measures have made homeownership not just a dream but a secure reality.
Healthcare, another critical concern for the middle class, has seen transformative reforms. Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), the world's largest government-funded health assurance scheme, now covers individuals aged 70 and above, which is likely to benefit 6 crore senior citizens belonging to 4.5 crore families., This landmark initiative led by PM Modi has resulted in alleviating the financial and emotional burden of medical expenses, offering the middle class a greater sense of security and relief.
Complementing this, the Jan Aushadhi and AMRIT schemes have made essential medicines and medical implants, such as those for heart, hip, or shoulder conditions, affordable and accessible. These programs have ensured that healthcare costs no longer push families into financial distress, offering a safety net that resonates deeply with middle-class values.
The government’s policies have significantly enhanced the ability of families to save and allocate resources effectively. One of the most striking examples is the decreasing cost of data. Data prices, which stood at nearly Rs 300 per GB in 2014, are as low as Rs 8.31 per GB today, a reduction of over 97%. This affordable data has led to an increase in access to information and digital opportunities, empowering youth to pursue their ambitions without financial constraints.
Education, another key priority for middle-class families, has also become more accessible under the PM Modi-led government. Lower interest rates on education loans have made it easier for the middle class to pursue their dreams of higher education without the burden of crippling debt. This has made the middle class more confident of aspiring to and achieving better careers, thereby contributing to the nation’s growth.
The PM Modi-led government has initiated a chain of measures, creating an environment for the middle class to pursue their aspirations, without any fear and insecurity. It is because of PM Modi’s initiatives that young people today have a plethora of career paths to choose from. Initiatives like Startup India have provided funding, mentorship, and market access, enabling middle-class entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into reality.
Women, in particular, have been at the forefront of this transformation. From serving in the military to leading startups and excelling in education, women are breaking barriers like never before. It is nothing short of a groundbreaking achievement that about 70% of Mudra loans have been availed by women entrepreneurs, boosting their financial independence and gender equality. PM Modi-led initiatives have created opportunities for financial independence and leadership, empowering middle-class women to redefine societal norms. Additionally, platforms like GeM (Government e-Marketplace) and other digital marketplaces have enabled small-town entrepreneurs to compete on a national and global stage.
The transformation of India’s infrastructure has directly impacted the quality of life of the average middle class. The expansion of roads, railways, airports, and metro networks has made commuting and travel more efficient and comfortable. From 74 airports in 2014 to 159 airports in 2024, a rise of 114% in India’s airport network under the PM Modi-led government has been seen. Spanning over 1,000 km across 11 states and 23 cities, India's metro network, under the PM Modi-led government, has now become the world's third-largest, providing affordable and safe travel for the middle class.
This is a testimony to PM Modi’s resolve to make commuting and travel more efficient and comfortable. The government’s focus on infrastructure and tourism has not only improved convenience but also created economic opportunities.
It is because the PM Modi-led government has strategically designed and delivered impactful changes for the middle class that they have gained ease of living and are now more empowered. As India marches toward becoming a global economic powerhouse, the middle class stands at the forefront, empowered by a government that listens, acts, and delivers.