By Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’
Once again Prime Minister Narendra Modi has topped the global approval ratings. His tremendous acceptance at home and abroad puts him at the forefront compared to the approval ratings of other global leaders. According to the Global Leader Approval Rating Tracker by Morning Consult, 76% of people in India accept PM Modi’s leadership, which is a significant support. This substantial margin sets PM Modi apart especially when national elections are to be held in another two months. PM Modi has surpassed approval ratings of other prominent global leaders like Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (66%) and Swiss President Alain Berset (58%). This acceptance is seen as a boost for PM Modi and especially the 1.4 billion Indian population, who view this as an important encouragement. Analysts believe that this popularity of the Prime Minister in India will not only be beneficial in the upcoming general elections in 2024 but also ensure India’s ascendancy in Global Leadership. Internationally, his recent participation in the COP28 Climate Summit in the United Arab Emirates highlighted India’s commitment to addressing climate change on the global stage, proposing to host COP33 in 2028 and emphasizing the deep impact of climate change on South Asian countries. At the COP28 meeting in Dubai, PM Modi emerged as a champion for global stability, stressing the need for nations to unite, not just as important, but as extremely necessary to address environmental challenges and climate change impacts. In today’s era, it is essential to find solutions amidst the rising challenges of climate change and environmental issues.
There was a consensus that to tackle the challenges of unstable regional politics within a developed world, active Indian participation was necessary. During India’s G-20 Summit, the world recognized New Delhi’s significant role in global leadership. India’s exceptional role in giving a new shape to international diplomacy has been highlighted. In an era of increasing power rivalry and the decline of multilateral institutions, India has made a mark in the G-20, becoming a focal point of global attention. Previously, G-20 was not considered seriously by the world community for many reasons. It has come at a time when many other multilateral forums are grappling with dwindling relevance, a reflection of the failure of these institutions to adapt to changing global order and contemporary challenges.
I remember Prime Minister Modi saying when taking charge of the G20, “India is assuming the presidency of the G20 at a time when the world is grappling with simultaneous challenges such as geo-political tensions, economic slowdown, rising food and energy prices, and long-term consequences of the pandemic.” Leaders across the globe were impressed that India, inspired by its theme “One Earth, One Family, One Future” recently presented, has accorded top priority to “development with women leadership” in its G20 agenda.
PM Modi’s diplomatic success extends beyond his personal charm. He has effectively advanced India’s strategic goals by utilizing his relationships with foreign leaders. For example, his close ties with President Biden have enhanced India’s position in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly as China’s influence grows. Similarly, PM Modi’s friendship with former Prime Minister Abe has strengthened defence, trade, and technology ties between India and Japan. Furthermore, his relationship with Prime Minister Netanyahu has bolstered cooperation between India and Israel in areas such as agriculture, security, and counterterrorism. Today, India is seeking solutions with all its partners that are just not confined to the urgency of this critical moment but also looking for a more democratic world order to ensure sustainable growth. Looking back at the history of the past nine years, we can see that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has emerged as India’s largest party in two general elections and dozens of state elections. Most states in India are ruled by the BJP. In general elections, it seems that the BJP will come to power with full force in the next five years as well, and Narendra Modi’s popularity will be the main reason for this. Today, when PM Modi goes to the United States, he is greeted with unprecedented enthusiasm, and America’s affirmation of deep and close partnership with India and the democratically elected leader of the world’s most populous country, it reflects somewhere the resolve of PM’s leadership. India has always been actively involved in many international organizations under the skilful leadership of PM Modi, contributing significantly even to the United Nations Security Council when the opportunity arises, which is a testament to its broad international recognition. India plays a crucial role in international efforts for peace, financial stability, and free trade in South Asia, actively participating in initiatives aimed at developing basic infrastructure in neighbouring countries and providing assistance to less developed countries through initiatives like South-South cooperation. The India-Africa E-Network project, connecting 53 African countries with e-education and telemedicine services, is an example of India’s global outreach efforts. Its commitment to capacity building and development of basic infrastructure has earned it praise at the international level, confirming its position as a global leader in the 21st century. Despite challenges from major powers, India is demonstrating its determination and capability to overcome obstacles and fulfil its influential role. Since coming to power with a massive mandate in the Lok Sabha elections in 2014, Prime Minister Modi has been a powerful leader. Over these years, he has clearly conveyed a strong message: “We are here not for a position but for a responsibility.” From Chief Ministers, bureaucrats, and party officials to Members of Parliament, we have seen everyone working diligently in their capacity, dedicated to their best abilities. Perhaps this is the reason why India has emerged as a major global leader with its multifaceted development and activism. The leadership style of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as the chief of the world’s largest democracy and of the rapidly growing economic power, has been praised not only in India but by many people around the world. His commitment to the nation, his leadership skills, vision, and decisiveness have impressed all affected by his leadership. PM Modi has undertaken more than 74 international trips to various countries in order to strengthen India’s global ties, fostering economic cooperation, and promoting shared interests across continents. In conclusion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s role in fostering friendship, peace, and goodwill among nations stands as a testament to his stature as a true global leader. His diplomatic efforts, marked by personal engagement and strategic partnerships, have not only strengthened India’s position on the world stage but have also contributed significantly to global peace and stability. Through his adept handling of international relations and commitment to mutual cooperation, PM Modi has shown that effective leadership transcends borders and ideologies. As the world faces new challenges and opportunities, PM Modi’s vision of a harmonious world built on the pillars of friendship and understanding serves as a guiding light for nations to come together and forge a brighter future for all.
(Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ is former Education Minister of India, and former Chief Minister of Uttarakhand)
