Changes in the economic policies have become a normal phenomenon since Prime Minister Narendra Modi held office in May 2014. It’s been more than two years and the situation remains the same. From introducing different plans or Yojnas to shaking the whole nation by banning INR 500 and INR 1,000 notes, Modi government has been found surprising, or rather say shocking, not only India but the entire globe.
In almost all speeches, the ruling party leaders unforgettably mention their good wishes for those who are below the poverty line and also promise to make sustainable improvements in their lifestyle. Demonetisation and Goods and Services Tax (GST) are the two most vital decisions that the Modi government took in the span of just one year. Once again, the Indian Prime Minister and his cabinet members convinced the public for their policies by showing their concern for the deprived classes. But to what extent their approach towards working for the deprived seems appropriate? That’s the question.
You must have observed our prime minister addressing Indian farmers in his speeches. I have been through many instances where farmers don’t even know what demonetisation is all about and how they will be benefitted from it. And to my surprise when they are asked about why do they support it, they have a clear answer: “Modiji ne acha kaam kiya hai,”which translates to Mr. Modi has done a good work. Now what does this imply? Is it really the so-called support for the government or is it completely blind support for the PM?
The rural section of the nation, which is one of the most famous elements of Modi government speeches, has suffered the most after demonetisation got implemented. According to First Post, demonetisation led to the huge loss of jobs in the unorganised sector. As a result, it adversely affected the livelihood of the so-called rural society. On the other hand, the picture of the purpose for which the policy of demonetisation was initiated still remains unclear. Yes, the authorities are still chasing the black money leaders without any transparency in the matter as of now.
So far as the GST is concerned, it also seems to be hurting the middle class and poor people while the wealthy ones are yet not experiencing any issues. A 28% GST for having food in restaurants is more of a punishment for middle-class people and it is in no way haunting those who hardly have to think about how much to spend on their meals. Moreover, those running the five-star restaurants are in no way poor or below the poverty line.
FMCG brand Hindustan Unilever has already noted that demonetisation and GST are the main reasons behind the downfall of the rural markets. “From double-digit growth in FMCG across urban and rural markets in 2012, the overall segment has fallen to single-digit growth, with rural lagging urban market,” HUL MD Sanjiv Mehta said as quoted by Economic Times.
The above observation and the way the Indian government is working makes us question if it is really making improvement for the poor or making an easier way to rule for the corporate. Think about it!!!
Media2Communicate 
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