Prime Minister Narendra Modi etched his name in history on Friday, surpassing former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s tenure to become the second-longest serving leader in India’s history. The milestone, marked a day after signing the India–UK Free Trade Agreement in London, positions Modi as a central figure in contemporary Indian politics. He now stands behind Jawaharlal Nehru, the nation’s first Prime Minister, in terms of uninterrupted service.
Modi’s achievement was underscored by his continuous tenure since assuming office in May 2014. His leadership has seen profound shifts in India’s domestic and foreign policies, from ambitious economic reforms to a dynamic foreign outreach. The Prime Minister’s tenure is viewed as a pivotal chapter in India’s democratic history, one marked by high-profile policy initiatives and global engagement, particularly in trade and diplomacy.
The India–UK Free Trade Agreement, a significant achievement for both nations, was a highlight of Modi’s visit to London, with the deal potentially transforming bilateral trade relations. Experts argue that this deal could open up new avenues for India in the global market, enhancing its economic footprint. However, the timing of Modi’s political milestone amidst this international development adds another layer of significance to his leadership, highlighting his consistent influence on India’s trajectory.
Modi’s political journey, from the Chief Minister of Gujarat to the national stage, has been punctuated by his ambitious vision for India’s growth. As a leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party, he has dominated India’s political landscape, steering the country through several major reforms, including the controversial Goods and Services Tax, demonetisation, and the Make in India campaign. His leadership has also seen a shift in India’s foreign policy, where strategic partnerships with global powers like the US, Russia, and European nations have flourished.
Political analysts have highlighted Modi’s ability to maintain a strong base of support throughout his tenure. His leadership is marked by a blend of populist rhetoric and decisive policy-making, aimed at propelling India onto the global stage as an economic powerhouse. While critics argue that his governance style often skews towards centralisation, Modi’s political acumen has ensured his dominance in the Indian political arena.
India’s political landscape has been shaped significantly under Modi’s rule. His tenure has coincided with a series of electoral victories for the BJP, most notably in the 2019 general elections, where the party secured a landslide victory. This continued success has allowed Modi to implement key policies without significant opposition, further solidifying his position as one of India’s most powerful and influential leaders.
However, Modi’s leadership has not been without controversy. The introduction of the Citizenship Amendment Act in 2019 and the revocation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir sparked widespread protests and drew criticism both domestically and internationally. Despite these challenges, Modi’s political capital has largely remained intact, buoyed by his ability to navigate complex political issues with deftness and assertiveness.
The Prime Minister’s record-breaking tenure also comes at a time when India is undergoing significant demographic changes, with the nation poised to become the world’s most populous country in the coming years. Modi’s government has aimed to leverage this demographic advantage to spur economic growth, with initiatives focusing on infrastructure, digitalisation, and skill development.
On the global stage, Modi’s leadership is seen as a balancing act between assertiveness and diplomacy. He has cultivated strong relationships with key global leaders, positioning India as a significant player in international affairs. The recent FTA with the UK is viewed as a critical component of this strategy, particularly as the UK seeks new trade partnerships post-Brexit.
