Is Mr. Modi’s Government Making Life Unlivable for the Aam Aadmi?
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been at the helm of the country’s government since 2014. His tenure has been marked by a series of economic reforms and policy changes, some of which have been controversial. The question that arises is whether these changes have made life unlivable for the ‘Aam Aadmi’ or the common man. This article aims to delve into this issue, examining the impact of Mr. Modi’s government on the everyday life of the average Indian citizen.
Understanding the Economic Reforms
One of the key aspects of Mr. Modi’s government has been its focus on economic reforms. These include the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), demonetization, and the push towards digital transactions. While these reforms were aimed at improving the economy and reducing corruption, they have also had a significant impact on the common man.
Goods and Services Tax (GST)
The GST was introduced in 2017 as a unified tax system to replace the multiple taxes that were previously in place. While it was intended to simplify the tax structure, many small businesses and traders faced difficulties in adapting to the new system. The initial confusion and the increased tax burden have been a cause of concern for the Aam Aadmi.
Demonetization
In 2016, the government announced the demonetization of INR 500 and INR 1000 notes. This move was aimed at curbing black money and corruption. However, it led to a cash crunch and affected the common man, particularly those in the informal sector and rural areas who rely heavily on cash transactions.
High Prices and Cost of Living
Another major concern for the Aam Aadmi has been the rising cost of living. High prices of essential commodities, fuel, and housing have made life difficult for many. While the government has taken steps to control inflation, the impact on the ground level is still significant.
Fuel Prices
India has seen a steady rise in fuel prices over the past few years. This has a direct impact on the cost of transportation and indirectly affects the prices of essential commodities. The high fuel prices have been a major burden for the common man.
Housing and Infrastructure
While the government has launched schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) to provide affordable housing, the high cost of real estate in cities continues to be a challenge. Additionally, issues like inadequate infrastructure and pollution make living in cities difficult for the Aam Aadmi.
In conclusion, while Mr. Modi’s government has initiated several reforms aimed at economic growth and development, the impact on the Aam Aadmi has been mixed. The challenges of high prices, changing tax structures, and economic disruptions have made life difficult for many. However, it is also important to note that these reforms are long-term in nature and their benefits may not be immediately visible.