India to hold the world’s biggest election starting April in over a month-long exercise
NBCApr 02
India: Modi's Party Releases Election Manifesto
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The Facts
Ahead of the national election, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi released his party's poll manifesto (platform) on Sunday, promising to make the country the third-largest economic power.
Titled "Modi's Guarantee 2024," the manifesto focuses on "the welfare and development of all," exponential economic growth, poverty eradication, and free and quality healthcare.
The Spin
Right narrative
Modi's party manifesto promises to build on India's progress over the past decade, especially in digital advancements and infrastructure. It pledges support for scientific research and promoting local languages. The manifesto isn't merely about winning the next round of national elections. It's more about deciding on the issue of a robustly developed India by 2047.
Left narrative
BJP's manifesto fails to address major economic issues like labor and land laws. It prioritizes continuity over significant change. It has no word on "doubling farmers' income" like it grandiosely did in 2019 and failed to keep. Voters will see through this smokescreen of rhetorical devices like Ramayana festivals and half-baked welfare measures.
