The Hindu reports: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s seven-point call to action for the citizens of India lays bare the severity of the impact of the West Asia crisis. Further, apart from its implications, Mr. Modi’s message is problematic for two other key reasons: its timing and content.
A key part of his message was to urge people to work from home and reduce their fuel usage. A more effective approach might have been to lead by example. Modi’s message comes days after he and his Cabinet colleagues flew all over the country and organised roadshows to campaign for the recent elections.
Background
Neither did any of his pre-election speeches mention these issues. His message also comes on the back of daily reassurances by his government’s officials that there was nothing to worry. The Prime Minister’s message also follows various Ministers’ attempts to heap praise on him for not raising petrol and diesel prices.
Key facts
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s seven-point call to action for the citizens of India lays bare the severity of the impact of the West Asia crisis.
- Further, apart from its implications, Mr.
- Modi’s message is problematic for two other key reasons: its timing and content.
- A key part of his message was to urge people to work from home and reduce their fuel usage.
- A more effective approach might have been to lead by example.
What this means
A decision not to further burden the common man is welcome, but the flip side is that it fails to impress upon them the need to curtail consumption. The government took that strategic call before the elections, and is now trying to dilute it. Perhaps a hike in fuel prices will follow soon.
The Prime Minister’s speech also coincided with a similar call to action for Indian corporates by the Confederation of Indian Industry. This kind of coordinated messaging points to a dire situation. Several of the Prime Minister’s suggestions might also have other negative impacts that could be more serious than the problems they are trying to address.
Originally reported by The Hindu. This story has been edited and re-presented by BRIC Team.
