Narendra Modi’s tenure as the chief minister of Gujarat, spanning over 12 years from 2001 to 2014, was a transformative period that significantly altered the state’s political, economic and social landscape. Stepping into leadership amid a challenging environment, Modi’s administration focussed on driving rapid industrialisation, infrastructure development and economic growth, often hailed as the “Gujarat Model.” His governance was marked by a remarkable acceleration in the state’s growth trajectory. As Modi transitioned from state to national politics, his leadership in Gujarat provided the foundation for his future rise to prime ministership. Here are 10 notable aspects that defined Modi’s governance in Gujarat:
1. Economic growth and infrastructure development: Under Modi’s leadership, Gujarat witnessed unprecedented economic growth. The state’s industrial growth rate averaged 13 per cent and agricultural growth reached 10.7 per cent making Gujarat one of India’s fastest-growing states. Major infrastructure projects like the development of world-class ports, highways and power grids played a critical role in accelerating this growth, modernising both urban and rural areas.
2. Industrialisation and business-friendly policies: Modi’s pro-business stance led to Gujarat becoming a hub for industries. The Vibrant Gujarat Global Investor Summit attracted foreign and domestic investments helping the state contribute 22 per cent of India’s overall exports. Key industries such as textiles, petrochemicals and automotive manufacturing flourished, thanks to a regulatory framework that was welcoming to businesses and investors.
3. Gujarat model of development: Modi’s approach to governance, dubbed the Gujarat Model, was based on public-private partnerships, minimal bureaucracy and efficient use of state resources. This model aimed at creating a conducive environment for private enterprises while ensuring the state government played a facilitative role. It became a benchmark for growth setting Gujarat’s development trajectory well above the national average.
4. Urban and rural development: Through initiatives like Jyotigram Yojana, which ensured 24-hour electricity for over 18,000 villages and major urban infrastructure projects like the Ahmedabad-Mumbai Economic Corridor, Modi’s government transformed both rural and urban landscapes. This dual focus boosted rural productivity while enhancing Gujarat’s urban trade and connectivity linking it with national and global markets.
5. Education and health sector reforms: During Modi’s tenure, Gujarat’s literacy rate increased from 69.14 per cent in 2001 to 78.03 per cent by 2011. The state also witnessed an expansion of primary health centres from 888 in 2001 to over 1,100 by 2014. Innovative health schemes like Maa Amrutam, which provided affordable healthcare to over 55 lakh families, showcased Modi’s focus on human development alongside economic growth.
6. Handling of the 2002 riots: The 2002 Gujarat riots were a significant challenge during Modi’s tenure, attracting widespread criticism and allegations. Despite this, Modi’s administration managed to regain political and legal stability, with the Supreme Court acquitting him of all charges related to the riots. This period highlighted the challenges his leadership faced on the path to social and political consolidation.
7. Agricultural policies and irrigation expansion: Modi’s government implemented several reforms to boost agricultural productivity focussing on improving irrigation infrastructure. By 2014, the state had expanded irrigation coverage from 31 per cent to over 50 per cent, enhancing the livelihoods of farmers and driving agricultural growth. These innovations led to a remarkable 10.7 per cent agricultural growth rate, far surpassing the national average.
8. Political strategy and consolidation: Modi’s political acumen and grassroots mobilisation efforts strengthened the BJP in Gujarat, ensuring successive electoral victories. His leadership and strategic vision were key to his nomination as the BJP’s prime ministerial candidate in 2013, making him the first serving chief minister of Gujarat to rise to national prominence.
9. Social welfare and inclusivity: Under Modi, Gujarat saw the launch of several social welfare programmes aimed at poverty alleviation, employment generation and women’s empowerment. Schemes like Sujalam Sufalam and Mission Mangalam addressed water scarcity and provided micro-finance support to women’s self-help groups. Modi’s administration strived to promote inclusive growth ensuring that Gujarat’s economic progress reached marginalised communities.
10. Promotion of Gujarat’s global image: Modi actively promoted Gujarat on the global stage through international forums and trade delegations. Under his leadership, Gujarat’s exports skyrocketed from Rs 64,000 crore ($13 billion) in 2001 to Rs 4.5 lakh crore ($90 billion) by 2014. Modi’s global outreach, coupled with improved diplomatic relations, enhanced Gujarat’s international profile, attracting investments and recognition from across the world.
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10 things about how Narendra Modi governed Gujarat as chief minister for over 12 years
