Prof. Mahesh Chand Gupta
Amidst the fervor of the Lok Sabha elections, the concept of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ has sparked widespread debate. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing a rally in Maharashtra, reiterated his vision for a unified and superior India, a sentiment that traces back to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s call for national unity.
However, this vision has met with criticism, particularly from opposition parties, raising questions about their reservations towards Modi’s dream. Is the opposition’s stance a reluctance to see India united and excelling, or is there more to their critique?
The ethos of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ encapsulates the aspiration for India to reclaim its ancient glory as a culturally and economically dominant force. Post-independence, however, the nation grappled with nepotism, corruption, and a lack of cohesive national identity, hindering its developmental trajectory.
Since assuming office in 2014, Modi has sought to revive the nation’s unity and strength, drawing inspiration from leaders like Patel and Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. The ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ campaign, launched amidst debates on intolerance, aims to foster a sense of national unity and propel the country towards comprehensive development.
The campaign has seen a significant public engagement, with citizens contributing suggestions that have influenced government policies. The Modi administration credits these collective efforts for India’s strides in self-reliance, particularly in defense, and for the socio-economic integration that has bolstered the nation’s morale.
Critics, however, argue that the campaign’s success is not without its detractors. Issues such as reservation, caste, and religious divides continue to challenge the fabric of national unity. Modi’s vision for ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ seeks to transcend these divides, promoting equal opportunities and celebrating India’s diversity.
As the nation progresses, the dream of a developed India by 2047 hinges on this path of unity and excellence. The public’s desire for a better India may well determine the political landscape, as they weigh the promise of Modi’s vision against the reality of the nation’s challenges.
