Question 1:
Mr. Prime Minister Modi, there are growing concerns that democratic institutions like the judiciary, media, and Parliament have been undermined during your tenure. How do you respond to accusations that your government is concentrating power?
India is a vibrant democracy, and our institutions are robust and independent. We have a strong judiciary, a free press, and a dynamic Parliament that functions according to the Constitution. Criticism and scrutiny are natural in a democracy, but it is incorrect to say that our government has undermined any institution. We respect the separation of powers and believe that our institutions will continue to play their rightful role in nation-building.
Question 2:
Mr. Prime Minister, your government has been accused of cracking down on dissent, especially against journalists, activists, and opposition leaders. How do you respond to allegations of stifling free speech?
Freedom of speech is a fundamental right in India, and my government respects this right. We welcome constructive criticism and dissent. However, law and order must also be maintained, and action is taken against individuals or organizations only when they are found violating the law. India has a vibrant press and civil society that constantly holds the government accountable. The claims of a ‘crackdown’ on dissent are politically motivated and not reflective of the ground reality.
Question 3:
Mr. Prime Minister, critics argue that under your leadership, there has been an increase in religious polarization and intolerance towards minorities, particularly Muslims. How does your government address these concerns?
India is a land of unity in diversity, where people of all religions and communities live together. My government is committed to the principle of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas,’ meaning development for all, with everyone’s trust. We take all concerns seriously and work to foster harmony among communities. Any attempts to create divisions are counter-productive to our vision of a strong and united India. Let me assure you that no one will be discriminated against on the basis of religion.
Question 4:
Your government, Mr. Prime Minister, faced criticism during the second wave of COVID-19, particularly over the lack of healthcare infrastructure, oxygen shortages, and vaccine distribution. How do you view your government’s handling of the pandemic?
The COVID-19 pandemic was an unprecedented global crisis, and no country was fully prepared for it. While the second wave was indeed challenging, our government acted swiftly to mobilize resources, build infrastructure, and ensure that vaccines reached every corner of the country. India not only ramped up its healthcare system but also became a leader in vaccine production and distribution. We also extended help to many other countries. Despite the challenges, India’s response to the pandemic has been strong, and we have emerged more resilient.
Question 5:
India has seen a slowdown in economic growth, with rising unemployment and inflation affecting the common people. Mr. Prime Minister, how do you respond to criticism that your government’s economic policies, like demonetization and GST, have contributed to these issues?
India’s economy, like the global economy, has faced challenges, particularly due to the pandemic. However, our government has undertaken significant reforms to ensure long-term growth and resilience. Policies like GST and demonetization were aimed at formalizing the economy, tackling black money, and improving tax compliance. The temporary challenges caused by these reforms are being addressed, and we are witnessing signs of recovery. We are focusing on job creation through initiatives like ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat.’ India’s economy will continue to grow and create opportunities for all.
Question 6:
The year-long farmers’ protests against the new agricultural laws raised concerns about your government’s approach to policy making. Mr. Prime Minister, what lessons did you learn from this episode?
Our government has always been committed to improving the lives of farmers. The agricultural reforms were introduced to empower farmers, give them more freedom in selling their produce, and bring investment into the sector. However, we also recognize the importance of dialogue. When the farmers expressed their concerns, we held several rounds of talks. Ultimately, I decided to repeal the laws to maintain peace and harmony. The well-being of farmers is my government’s priority, and we will continue to work towards making agriculture more prosperous.
Question 7:
Some state governments have accused your administration of over-centralizing power and undermining federalism. Mr. Prime Minister, how do you respond to this?
India is a union of states, and my government has always respected the federal structure. Our cooperative federalism approach is visible in programs like the GST Council, where states play a critical role in decision-making. We have worked closely with state governments, especially during the pandemic, and have devolved funds to them for development projects. Any perception of over-centralization is unfounded, as we believe that the success of India depends on the success of all states.
Question 8:
Mr. Prime Minister, there are criticisms that many of the promises made during your campaigns, such as creating 10 million jobs per year and doubling farmers’ incomes, have not been met. How do you respond to these criticisms?
Governance is a continuous process, and my government is committed to fulfilling the promises made to the people of India. While challenges remain, we are making significant progress in many areas. We have improved infrastructure, brought millions into the formal financial system, and initiated reforms in education, healthcare, and the economy. We are working tirelessly to address employment and farmers’ issues. Development is a long-term journey, and I am confident that India will continue to move forward in the right direction.
Quest 9:
Critics say that your government has relied on majoritarian politics, especially appealing to Hindu nationalist sentiments. Mr. Prime Minister, how do you address concerns that this approach undermines India’s secular fabric?
India’s strength lies in its diversity and inclusivity. My government does not believe in majoritarianism; we believe in the development of all citizens, regardless of their religion, caste, or background. Our guiding principle is ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas.’ We want to uplift every Indian and create an environment where everyone can prosper together. We are proud of India’s secular and pluralistic traditions, and we will always work to preserve them
Question 10:
Mr. Prime Minister, some opposition leaders and civil rights groups have accused your government of authoritarian tendencies, citing actions such as the revocation of Article 370, the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), and the use of sedition laws. How do you respond to these accusations?
All decisions taken by my government have been in the best interest of the nation and within the framework of the Constitution. The revocation of Article 370 was a long-overdue step towards integrating Jammu and Kashmir fully into India and ensuring equal rights for its citizens. The Citizenship Amendment Act is about protecting persecuted minorities from neighbouring countries; it is not against any Indian citizen. As for sedition laws, the rule of law is followed, and actions are taken to maintain national security. India is and will always remain a democracy where the voice of every citizen is heard.
Question 11:
Mr. Prime Minister, the U.S. and India have been strengthening ties, particularly in Defence and technology. What are your expectations from this relationship in the coming years?
India and the United States share a deep and multi-faceted partnership. Our focus is on building a relationship that not only benefits both our countries but also contributes to global stability. In areas like technology, defence, energy, and climate change, our cooperation is growing rapidly. I am confident that our strategic and economic partnership will continue to strengthen in the years ahead.
Question 12:
Mr. Prime Minister, India has maintained a neutral stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, despite calls from Western nations to condemn Russia. Can you elaborate on India’s position?
India’s position on international conflicts has always been one of peace and dialogue. We believe in the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations. We also maintain strong relationships with many countries, including Russia and the United States. Our goal is to encourage dialogue and find peaceful solutions to conflicts. India’s foreign policy is guided by our principles of strategic autonomy and non-alignment.
Question 13:
Mr. Prime Minister, concerns have been raised about press freedom, treatment of minorities, and civil liberties in India. How do you respond to these concerns?
India is the world’s largest democracy, and we are deeply committed to democratic principles, freedom of speech, and human rights. Criticism and debate are natural in a vibrant democracy like ours. We take every concern seriously, but it is important to remember that India’s diversity and democratic institutions are strong and will continue to be so.
Question 14:
Mr. Prime Minister, India has implemented several economic reforms in recent years. What steps are being taken to attract more foreign investment, particularly from the United States?
India is one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world. We have undertaken bold reforms in areas like taxation, labour laws, and infrastructure to make it easier for businesses to thrive. Our ‘Make in India’ initiative, along with improvements in ease of doing business, is aimed at attracting global investments. We are eager to welcome more American companies to participate in India’s growth story.
Question 15:
Mr. Prime Minister, India is one of the largest emitters of greenhouse gases. How does your government plan to balance economic growth with the need to address climate change?
India is fully committed to sustainable development. We have set ambitious targets for renewable energy, with a goal of achieving 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030. Our solar power initiatives and efforts in energy efficiency are examples of our commitment to combating climate change. At the same time, we must ensure that our development goals, especially for lifting millions of people out of poverty, are met in a sustainable way.
Question 16:
Mr. Prime Minister, how does India view its role in countering China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific region, especially in collaboration with the U.S. and other QUAD members?
India plays a crucial role in ensuring peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific. Our vision of the region is one of openness, inclusivity, and freedom of navigation. We are committed to working with our QUAD partners—the U.S., Japan, and Australia—to uphold international law and maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific. Our aim is not to counter any one country but to ensure that the region remains peaceful for all.
Question 17:
Mr. Prime Minister, India has a rapidly growing digital economy, but concerns about data privacy and surveillance have been raised. How is your government addressing these concerns?
Digital India is one of our flagship initiatives to empower citizens and bring technology to the masses. We are also conscious of the need to protect the privacy of our citizens. Our new Data Protection Bill ensures that personal data is safeguarded while allowing innovation to thrive. India’s digital transformation will continue to be people-centric and privacy-respecting.
Question 18:
Mr. Prime Minister, India has been seeking a permanent seat on the UN Security Council. What progress do you expect on this front, and how do you see India’s role in global governance?
India is a responsible global actor, and our role in global governance must reflect the reality of today’s world. We have consistently contributed to peacekeeping efforts and played a constructive role in multilateral forums. We believe that the UN Security Council must be reformed to be more representative of today’s global order. We will continue to push for these reforms with our partners.
Question 19:
Mr. Prime Minister, critics say that religious tensions have increased in India under your leadership. How does your government address these concerns?
India is a country of great diversity, with many religions, languages, and cultures. Our Constitution guarantees equal rights for all citizens, and my government is committed to upholding these principles. Any incident that causes division is taken seriously, and we work to foster unity and harmony among all communities. We believe in ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’—development for all, without discrimination.
Question 20:
Mr. Prime Minister, India has made progress in women’s empowerment, but challenges remain, especially in rural areas. What further steps are being taken to address gender inequality?
Empowering women is central to India’s development. Our programs like ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ have made significant strides in improving education and opportunities for women. We are working to ensure that women have equal access to healthcare, jobs, and leadership roles. The success of women in various fields in India today is a testament to the progress we are making.
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