India’s political environment is rapidly evolving, with the Narendra Modi-led government taking bold steps to strengthen the country’s international influence. A major highlight of the past few months has been India’s leadership of the G-20, which culminated in a landmark summit held in New Delhi. The inclusion of the African Union (AU) as a permanent member of the G-20 was one of the most significant outcomes of the summit, a move that was championed by India to address the global power imbalance and amplify the voice of developing nations. This diplomatic win not only marked a milestone in India’s foreign policy but also bolstered its reputation as a leader in global governance, especially in a world dealing with the aftershocks of the pandemic and geopolitical instability.
The summit also brought attention to key global issues, including climate change, economic recovery, and digital transformation. India’s role as a voice for the Global South was strongly showcased, particularly through the introduction of new initiatives to reduce the global economic divide and promote equitable growth.
On the domestic front, political tensions are rising as India heads toward state elections in several key regions such as Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh, followed by the crucial 2024 national elections. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Modi, is working to maintain its dominance in these states, leveraging its strong political machinery, but the opposition, primarily the Indian National Congress (INC), is rallying around issues like inflation, unemployment, and agrarian distress. Campaigns in these states are focused on addressing local concerns—such as improving healthcare, education, and infrastructure—while national issues, like economic policies and national security, remain high on the agenda for both major parties.
In this highly competitive environment, Modi’s government continues to highlight its achievements in infrastructure development, foreign policy, and social welfare schemes, while critics focus on challenges such as rising inequality, unemployment, and increasing social unrest.
