The NDA government, led by the BJP, is pursuing a major initiative called "One Nation, One Election." This plan aims to streamline the election process by holding Lok Sabha, state assemblies, and local body elections simultaneously. Despite the BJP having a minority, they are determined to implement this policy during their current term.
Policy Stability and Continuity
A top government official emphasized that the NDA government is committed to policy stability. This is especially notable as it is the first time in 60 years that a government has been elected for a third consecutive term. The government is focused on continuing and expanding on the policies it started a decade ago.
Key Areas of Focus
The NDA government has completed 100 days in its third term, during which they have made significant decisions in various sectors:
- Defense and Space: Strengthening national security and space exploration.
- External and Home Affairs: Enhancing international relations and internal security.
- Education and Digital India: Improving education and advancing digital infrastructure.
- Infrastructure Development: Investing Rs 11 lakh crore annually in building infrastructure.
- Welfare Programs: Focusing on the well-being of women, youth, the poor, and farmers.
One Nation, One Election
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has long advocated for "One Nation, One Election." He believes that holding elections simultaneously will reduce interruptions in the country’s progress. A high-level committee, led by former President Ram Nath Kovind, recommended this approach, starting with Lok Sabha and state assembly elections together, followed by synchronized local body elections.
Constitutional Changes
Implementing this plan requires a Constitutional amendment. The first step involves holding Lok Sabha and state elections together, which does not need state ratification. The second step involves synchronizing local body elections, which will require approval from at least half of the states.
Challenges and Support
The BJP, which won 240 seats and relies on allies like TDP, JD(U), and LJP (Ram Vilas), faces some challenges. Despite concerns from allies, the BJP leaders are confident in their support for the "One Nation, One Election" plan. Recent adjustments were made to address ally concerns, such as withdrawing an advertisement for government positions and sending controversial bills to a parliamentary committee.
Future Plans and Projects
In the first 100 days of their third term, the NDA government approved projects worth Rs 15 lakh crore, focusing on major infrastructure improvements. They also aim to correct job creation issues by increasing capital expenditure in the infrastructure sector.
Health and Education
Under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, the government has extended Rs 5 lakh annual health coverage to senior citizens over 70 years, benefiting around 6 crore people. Additionally, 70,000 new medical seats have been added to ensure that students do not need to study abroad for medical education.
The NDA government is committed to implementing its policies and plans, including the ambitious "One Nation, One Election" initiative. Their focus on infrastructure, welfare, and health aims to drive progress and address long-standing issues.