New Delhi: New Delhi: Promising to usher in an era of strong economic growth, job creation, tackling the corruption menace, zero tolerance on terrorism and a strong foreign policy, the Bharatiya Janata Party released its manifesto for the 2014 Lok Sabha elections on Monday, the day the first phase of the polls began in the states of Assam and Tripura. The BJP manifesto pledges ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshta Bharat – Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas’ (One India, Best India – Unity and Development for everyone).
The BJP manifesto is much broader and covers most issues when compared to the Congress manifesto. The Congress manifesto promises an inclusive society and inclusive growth and the BJP’s mentions ‘One India and Great India’.
The BJP has always been advocating this for a long time. With Narendra Modi at the helm of affairs, it is not a surprise that the manifesto once again advocates a strong India.
The highlights of the BJP manifesto are that it pledges to tackle inflation and corruption and also reiterates its stand to explore all possibilities within the framework of the Constitution to facilitate the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
The manifesto also promises a uniform civil code to ensure gender equality. It also promises total ban on manual scavenging.
BJP Prime Ministerial candidate Narendra Modi said that the manifesto is not just a formality for the party. “This manifesto is not an election formality for us. This is our aim and our direction. Good governance and development is our goal,” Modi said.
The BJP in its manifesto also says that barring multi-brand retail, it is open to Foreign Direct Investment in all other sectors. “Barring the multi-brand retail sector, FDI will be allowed in sectors where ever needed for job and asset creation,” said BJP leader Murli Manohar Joshi.
Promising a vibrant and participatory democracy, empowered and inspired people, inclusive and sustainable development, improving quality of life in villages and cities, basic amenities to all, flourishing agriculture, productive youth, involved women, robust physical and social infrastructure, innovative and technologically driven society, globally competitive economy, building Brand India on quality, strong, effective and futuristic institutions, open, transparent and systems based government, pro-active, pro-people good governance, the manifesto talks about building a strong and modern India.
The most contentious issue of Ram Mandir figures in the manifesto. But there is no time bound programme or a promise. The manifesto says: “Explore all possibilities within the framework of the Constitution to facilitate the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.”
It also promises the purification of the Ganga saying that it is essential for the spiritual as well as physical well being of India. The BJP promises to ensure cleanliness, purity and uninterrupted flow of Ganga.
Another favourite topic of the RSS and VHP also figures in the manifesto. The manifesto promises a necessary legal framework to protect cow and its progeny and setting up of a National Cattle Development board.
The BJP’s pet slogan of cultural nationalism and protection of India’s ancient heritage is also a part of the manifesto. The manifesto promises development of all heritage sites and digitisation of archives and promotion of Indian languages for creating a knowledge based society.
It reiterates its stand on Article 370 and promises a Uniform Civil Code. In an effort to make India a truly federal nation, the manifesto promises that it will encourage the states to play a greater role in diplomacy. It also promises to expand and empower pool of diplomats and Indian professionals is working in key positions across the world will be harnessed for strengthening.
The party also promises to tackle food inflation and price rise by setting up of special courts to stop hoarding and black marketing and price stabilisation fund. BJP manifesto says corruption is a manifestation of poor governance and promises to establish a system, which eliminates the scope for corruption. The party will have a system of technology enabled e-governance, rationalisation and simplification of the tax regime, minimisation of the generation of black money.
“BJP is committed to initiate the process of tracking down and bringing back black money stashed in foreign banks and offshore accounts. We will set up a Task Force for this purpose and to recommend amendments to existing laws or enact new laws. The process of bringing back black money to India what belongs to India, will be put in motion on priority. We will also proactively engage with foreign governments to facilitate information sharing on black money,” says the document.
Minority appeasement- (modernisation of Madarsas)
The manifesto says: “It is unfortunate that even after several decades of independence, a large section of the minority, and especially Muslim community continues to be stymied in poverty. Modern India must be a nation of equal opportunity. BJP is committed to ensure that all communities are equal partners in India’s progress, as we believe India cannot progress if any segment of Indians is left behind.”
- Ensure that the young and the girl child in particular get education and jobs without discrimination.
- Strengthen and modernize minority educational systems and institutions; dovetailing them with modern requirements. National Madrasa modernization programme would be initiated.
- Empower with vibrancy in Livelihood and Entrepreneurial opportunities.
- Augment their traditional artisanship and entrepreneurial skill, which are a backbone of our cottage and small-scale industry – strengthening these sectors through better market linkages, branding and access to credit.
- Empower Waqf Boards in consultation with religious leaders; taking steps to remove encroachments from and unauthorized occupation of Waqf properties.
- Curate their rich heritage and culture – maintenance and restoration of heritage sites; digitization of archives; preservation and promotion of Urdu.
- Ensure a peaceful and secure environment, where there is no place for either the perpetrators or exploiters of fear.
Uniform Civil Code
- Article 44 of constitution lists Uniform Civil Code as part of directive principles of state policy. BJP believes that there cannot be gender equality till such time India adopts a Uniform Civil Code, which protects the rights of all women, and the BJP reiterates its stand to draft a Uniform Civil Code, drawing upon the best traditions and harmonizing them with the modern times.
Cow and its Progeny: In view of the contribution of cow and its progeny to agriculture, socio-economic and cultural life of our country, the Department of Animal Husbandry will be suitably strengthened and empowered for the protection and promotion of cow and its progeny.
- Necessary legal framework will be created to protect and promote cow and its progeny.
- A National Cattle Development board will be set up to implement a Programme for the improvement of indigenous livestock breeds.
Jammu and Kashmir: Jammu and Kashmir was, is and shall remain an integral part of the Union of India. The territorial integrity of India is inviolable. BJP will pursue an agenda of equal and rapid development in all the three regions of the state – Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh.
- The return of Kashmiri Pandits to the land of their ancestors with full dignity, security and assured livelihood will figure high on the BJP’s agenda.
- The long pending problems and demands of refugees from Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK) will be addressed.
- BJP reiterates its stand on the Article 370, and will discuss this with all stakeholders and remains committed to the abrogation of this article.
Highlights:
Tackling price rise
Generating employment and encouraging entrepreneurship
Ending corruption
Bringing back black money
Ending decision and policy paralysis
Putting in place a strong delivery system
Bringing an end to credibility crisis
To strengthen the framework
Better centre-state relations
Integrating the nation – its vastness and voices
Ensure decentralization and people’s participation
Take the country from representative to participatory democracy
Reform the system
Good governance: transparent, effective, involving and encouraging 10
Open government and accountable administration 10
E-governance: easy, efficient and effective
Institutional reform – administrative, judicial, police and electoral
Better judicial system
Reform police force
Electoral reforms
Bridge the gap and uplift the poor and downtrodden
Food security for all
Social justice and empowerment for SCs, STs, OBCs and other weaker sections
Equal opportunity for minorities
Meet aspirations of neo-middle class
High priority for rural areas
Make urban areas high growth centres
Social security – a caring government, passionate society
Focus on children – the future of the nation
Security for senior citizens
Special emphasis on specially abled
Promotion of sports
Focus on women – the nation builder
Improvement of education system, school education, higher and professional education
Focus on vocational training
Skill development- focusing on productivity and employability
Health services – increase the access, improve the quality, lower the cost
Economic revival
Abolition of NPAs
Simple Taxation system
No foreign direct investment in multi-brand retail
Make agriculture more productive, scientific and rewarding
Make industry modern, competitive and caring
Focus on reviving manufacturing sector
Special emphasis on MSMEs (micro, small and medium enterprises)
Focus on handicrafts and artisans
Services to be driven by quality and efficiency
Development of business and trade
To tap the tourism potential
labour force – the pillar of our growth
housing – no longer a mirage
physical infrastructure – better than the best
next generation infrastructure
Better transport
Improvement in railway system
Water – make it reach to all homes, farms and factories
Energy – generate more, use rationally, waste less
Science and technology – India innovates and India leads
Natural and national resources – use when required, protect where necessary
Secure Indians – zero tolerance on terrorism, extremism and crime
An independent and strategic nuclear programme
Foreign relations – nation first, universal brotherhood
Implement uniform civil code
Ram Temple in Ayodhya
Following is the full text of the manifesto:
Preface
India is the most ancient civilization of the world and has always been looked upon by the world as a land of wealth and wisdom. India has been credited to have developed, apart from philosophy and mathematics, science and technology of a very high order, which had attracted scholars from all over the world. Al-Andalusi, a Spanish scholar in the 11th Century, in his monumental work ‘Tabaqat al- Umam’ had discussed the state of science in different countries. He writes, “The first nation to have cultivated science is India… India is known for wisdom of its people. Over many centuries all the kings of the past have recognized the ability of Indians in all branches of knowledge.” Andalusi further states, “Indians, as known to all nations for many centuries, are the metal (essence) of wisdom, the source of fairness and objectivity. They are the people of sublime pensiveness, universal apologues, and useful and rare inventions.”
India’s contribution to the march of civilization goes back to several thousand years before the Christian era. From the Vedas to Upanishads and Gautam – the Buddha and Mahavira – the 24th Jain Tirthankara and then to Kautilya and Chandra Gupta and down up to the eighteenth century, India was respected for its flourishing economy, trade, commerce and culture. It had an international outreach from Korea to Arabia, from Bamiyan to Borobudur and beyond. Before the advent of Britishers, Indian goods were internationally recognized for their quality and craftsmanship. India had a much bigger role and presence in industry and manufacturing than any nation in Europe or Asia. It had a well-developed banking system and equally renowned businessmen, along with its financiers, who were contributing to create a flourishing and progressive economy. According to Sunderland, India was also one of the greatest shipbuilding nations and consequently had an access to international markets. Indian prosperity held the world in thrall. It was this wealth which attracted the foreigners – from Alexander to the Britishers.
Historical records establish the level of progress and prosperity attained by India before the advent of the Europeans. Indian advancement in mathematics, astronomy, physics and chemistry along with the biological sciences has been well recognized. India was a land of abundance, prosperity, affluence, a land of sharing and caring living in perfect harmony and peace with the nature. From ancient times almost all religions practiced in different parts of the world, have existed peacefully in India and will continue to do so. India thus provides the most ennobling experience in spiritual co-existence.
BJP recognizes that no nation could chart out its domestic or foreign policies unless it has a clear understanding about itself, its history, its roots, its strengths and failings. In a highly mobile and globalized world, it is imperative for a nation to know its roots that provide sustenance to its people.
Indian freedom struggle, which was inspired by Tilak, Gandhi, Aurobindo, Patel, Bose and others, had a clear vision of the civilizational consciousness of India. These leaders had directed the freedom movement, keeping the Indian ways and thoughts in the centre of their action. They had a vision to reconstruct the political and economic institutions of India as a continuum of civilizational consciousness, which made India one country, one people, and one Nation.
After achieving independence, the leaders at the helm of affairs lost the spirit and the vision, which the freedom movement had evoked. They discarded the vision and adopted the institutional framework of administration created by the Britishers which was quite alien to India’s world-view. It is unfortunate that these leaders could not comprehend India’s inner vitality, which was the main force responsible for India’s survival despite several attacks and prolonged foreign rule and thus, failed to rekindle the spirit of India.
Even after nearly seven decades of our independence, the country has not been able to discover its innate vitality, the sense of time and the will to act. As a result, in spite of being the oldest civilization and a young republic, we are engulfed by a multi-dimensional crisis. A crisis, which has encompassed all walks of life. The rising disparities, social and communal divide and terrorism leading to a fractured society, are worsening the situation rapidly. The present crisis is the result of this confusion and disconnect from the seekings and sensibilities of the people. This is worse confounded by the weak and spineless leadership of the UPA Government. The tragedy is further heightened by their failure to diagnose the malady and find the remedy. Instead of creating a socio-economic and political paradigm of governance drawn from the civilizational consciousness of India, the leaders tried to follow whatever was being practiced in this or that western country.
Thus, we have wasted more than half of a century. Many other countries, even with smaller size and lesser resources, have surpassed us in development parameters. Another reason for this is that the Governance in these decades was marred by lack of trust, leading to excessive controls. It was also marked by lack of openness in Government and lack of people’s participation. This has led to concentration of power in a few hands and lack of transparency breeding corruption and nepotism on a massive scale. The so-called ‘liberalization’ came in 1990s, but it was half-hearted. It didn’t work because the rest of the eco-system remained the same. However, the beginning of the 21st century showed some light under the NDA rule. India started being reckoned as an economic superpower. The six-year rule of NDA had given the Nation many firsts, building an image in the International community. However, many of the hopes, potentials and projects have not been fully realized in the subsequent years. But after 2004, UPA came into power and the situation started worsening again. We missed a historic national opportunity once more.
UPA’s biggest blow to the Indian political system is that they have taken out Genuineness from Governance; Authenticity from Administration. UPA has shown Governance of Enactment, not Action. It has given an Administration of Entitlement without Delivery. We have become a polity of Promises, and not Performance. We represent an economy of deficits, a work culture of delays and an asset base of deficiency. Worse, Congress-led UPA has made India a global synonym of Corruption, Scandal and Stagnation. To make it even worse, today, we are passing through total Decision and Policy Paralysis. Sluggish economic growth, unprecedented price rise and unstable Currency are its most visible facets.
The following demand urgent solutions; economy including agriculture, energy, environment including natural resources, education and health, employment, external and internal threats to security, empowerment, Governance, and erosion of moral and societal values.
If India has to survive as a nation, which it has to, in order to play its destined role in the comity of nations, if it has to make its voice heard for creating a peaceful and egalitarian world order, then we must take up the challenges with urgency and determination and provide proper solutions for them. It is a pity that we have a demoralized leadership presiding over the state apparatus, which is incompetent to handle the present problems. What is needed today is to arrive at a consensus about the ‘Idea’ of India and also to think and redesign our approach in consonance with the seekings and preferences of the Indian people.
The situation in the country is deteriorating rapidly. Delay in resolving the crisis would be dangerous. What is needed is to take lessons from history, recognise the vitality and resilience of India, the power of its world-view and utilize its strength, which drove it to glorious heights and analyse its weaknesses, which led to this abysmal fall. Pick up the thread from the point where the continuum of our civilizational consciousness was lost and reorient the polity in consonance with those strong points of Indian psyche which will be the engine for our future glory. Let’s keep the windows open, have a clear understanding of the global scenario and how without destroying our uniqueness we can assimilate the best of the technological advancements.
We can achieve this goal provided the leaders seriously set to this task. What we need is a political party committed to deliver and a leadership with strong determination and political will. As Vivekananda had said, “All power is within you. You can do anything. Believe in that.” Yes, the power lies in the people of India, in the inner sanctum sanctorum of Mother India. What is needed is to ignite the spark and Mother India would rise in her full glory.
As Sri Ma had once said that India had become the symbolic representation of all the difficulties of modern mankind but India will also be the land of its resurrection to a higher and truer life. The BJP will leave no stone unturned to fulfill the dream of 1.22 billion Indians.
Today, India is blessed with the rare capacity and opportunity of Democracy, Demography and Demand. If we are able to consolidate and harness them, we will be able to reach the heights which India deserves. The biggest reason for a sorry state of affairs is bad intentions on the part of those who have ruled the country for sixty years. And that is where we would show the first difference. For BJP, the goal of the policies and practices would be: Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat! The path would be: Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas. This is our commitment to the Nation and to the People.
With this determination of the party under the charismatic leadership of Shri Narendra Modi, we enter the elections to the 16th Lok Sabha and would work whole-heartedly to give a stable, strong, visionary and progressive Government to India.
It is an opportunity to change our fate and of our nation. Glory to Mother India, glory to Her children.
March 26, 2014
Dr. (Prof.) Murli Manohar Joshi
Chairman
Manifesto Committee -2014
Attend the Imminent
Decade under the UPA – I and II can rightly be summed in one line, the ‘Decade of Decay’, in which India had a free fall on all fronts – be it governance, economy, diplomacy, foreign policy, border safety, etc. At the same time, corruption, scams and crime against women have reached to unacceptable levels. There has been gross misuse and total denigration of government and institutions. There has also been erosion of authority of the office of the Prime Minister. The Government dithered by each passing day, casting gloom and doom on the country that was once under the NDA regime called the ‘Emerging Superpower’. In 2004, NDA left the Government with a near double digit growth. The Congress- led UPA could not even maintain that growth and mismanaged the country so badly, that the growth rate declined to 4.8%, resulting the country falling in a deep mess. We have lost a wonderful opportunity and have pushed the country 20 years behind and rendered millions of men and women jobless.
Critical and urgent challenges facing the nation have been left unaddressed. Beyond impacting the immediate short-term, this is corroding the long-term potential of the nation. People feel frustrated and have lost hope in the system. Things must change, and they must change now. BJP will take immediate and decisive action to address these issues on a priority basis.
Price Rise
Runaway food inflation has crippled household budgets and contributed to the overall inflationary trend under the Congress-led UPA’s watch. Even worse, the food and nutritional security of millions is threatened. However, the Congress-led UPA government has remained insensitive and indifferent to the plight of the people; tying itself into knots with short-term, mis-directed steps. The committee of Chief Ministers, headed by Shri Narendra Modi, has already submitted a report on food inflation in 2011. The report was unfortunately not acted upon by the Congress-led UPA Government.
The BJP-led NDA Government’s record of holding the prices is a demonstration of our commitment to break the vicious cycle of high inflation and high interest rates. Our immediate task will be to rein in inflation by several steps, such as:
- put in place strict measures and special Courts to stop hoarding and black marketing.
- setting up a Price Stabilisation Fund.
- unbundle FCI operations into procurement, storage and distribution for greater efficiency.
- leverage on technology to disseminate Real time data, especially to farmers – on production, prices, imports, stocks and overall availability.
- evolve a single ‘National Agriculture Market’.
- promote and support area specific crops and vegetables linked to food habits of the people.
Employment and Entrepreneurship
The country has been dragged through 10 years of Jobless Growth by the Congress-led UPA Government. Under the broader economic revival, BJP will accord high priority to job creation and opportunities for entrepreneurship. We will:
- strategically develop high impact domains like Labour-intensive manufacturing (viz. textile, footwear, electronics assembly, etc.) and Tourism.
- strengthen the traditional employment bases of agriculture and allied industries, and retail – through modernization as well as stronger credit and market linkages.
- harness the opportunities provided by the upgradation of infrastructure and housing, for its job generating potential.
- encourage and empower our youth for self-employment – incubating entrepreneurship as well as facilitating credit.
- address the employability issue by initiating a multi-skills development programme in mission mode. Focus will be on job creation and entrepreneurship, in both rural and urban areas.
- transform our Employment Exchanges into Career Centres – connecting our youth with job opportunities in a transparent and effective manner through the use of technology; as well as providing counselling and training.
Corruption
Corruption is a manifestation of poor Governance. Moreover, it reflects the bad intentions of those sitting in power. All pervasive corruption under the Congress-led UPA has become a ‘National Crisis’.
We will establish a system, which eliminates the scope for corruption. We will do this through:
- public awareness
- technology enabled e-Governance – minimizing the discretion in the citizen-government interface.
- system-based, policy-driven governance – making it transparent.
- rationalization and simplification of the tax regime – which is currently repulsive for honest tax payers.
- simplification of the processes and procedures at all levels – bestowing faith in the citizens, institutions and establishments.
Black Money
By minimizing the scope for corruption, we will ensure minimization of the generation of black money. BJP is committed to initiate the process of tracking down and bringing back black money stashed in foreign banks and offshore accounts. We will set up a Task Force for this purpose and to recommend amendments to existing laws or enact new laws. The process of bringing back black money to India what belongs to India, will be put in motion on priority. We will also proactively engage with foreign Governments to facilitate information sharing on black money.
Decision and Policy Paralysis
The country has suffered a decade of maladministration and scams in addition to decision and policy paralysis; thus bringing growth and development to a grinding halt leading to a ‘Governance deficit’. This situation will be changed and the engine of Government will be ignited again with strong willpower and commitment to public interest. We will also encourage the bureaucracy to take right decisions and contribute their might in building a modern India.
Poor Delivery
Wherever we go, we encounter bottlenecks. We experience it on a daily basis – in government offices for even the simplest of public services, in our courts buried in high pendency and so on. Similarly, we are known by a culture of missing links and lack of last mile connectivity. We have water but no pipeline to carry it; we have schools but no teachers; we have computers and machines but no electricity; we have scientists but no labs; we have instruments but no one to work on them. This reduces the pace of our performance and results into wastage of time, money and energy. Intent to do the right thing and the will to do things rightly, is missing. This has to be attended to on a priority basis.
Whatever we do and provide for, the whole chain has to be kept in mind. With this in mind, we will:
- remove bottlenecks and missing links in all sectors, activities and services.
- focus on proper planning and execution for right outcomes.
- strive for scale and speed with futuristic vision.
- Build institutions for today and tomorrow.
Credibility Crisis
The biggest challenge that India faces today is to restore the credibility of, and trust in the Union Government. In recent years, the Union Government has lost every semblance of credibility. Its intentions, integrity and initiatives, all are questionable. The Congress party has not only lowered the dignity of the Government, but also the dignity of India. This is what is driving recent adversities like the falling rupee and countries riding roughshod over us. The BJP will work for restoring the trust and credibility of the Government. We will also ensure that the chain of responsibility and accountability is built in the system.
Team India
Centre-State Relations
Strengthen the Framework
India is a diverse country. Diverse communities settled in vastly different regions have their own aspirations. Taking these aspirations into consideration, the centre and the states therefore have to evolve a working system, which leads to harmonious relations. The genuine grievances of every state will be addressed in a comprehensive manner.
- We will place Centre-State relations on an even keel through the process of consultation and strive for harmonious Centre-State relations.
- Our Government will be an enabler and facilitator in the rapid progress of states. We will evolve a model of national development, which is driven by the states.
- Team India shall not be limited to the Prime Minister led team sitting in Delhi, but will also include
Chief Ministers and other functionaries as equal partners.
- Ensure fiscal autonomy of States while urging financial discipline.
- Create ‘Regional Councils of States’, with common problems and concerns, with a view to seeking solutions that are applicable across a group of states.
- We will encourage cooperation among states on security-related issues, inter-state disputes and for removing inter-regional economic disparities and promoting tourism.
- We recognize the special needs and unique problems of the hill and desert states. In consultation with the Governments of these states, state-specific developmental priorities/ models will be evolved so that the aspirations of the people are met.
- Given the unique status of Union Territories (UTs), they will receive special attention. We will focus on developing and strengthening the economy of UTs. Tourism will be promoted, tribal welfare and their rights will receive full attention, and infrastructure and coastal area development will be given top priority.
- We reiterate our commitment to the protection and integrated development of our island territories.
- The moribund forums like ‘National Development Council’ and ‘Inter-State Council’ will be revived and made into active bodies.
- Involve the state Governments in the promotion of foreign trade and commerce.
- Help the states mobilize resources through investments in industry, agriculture and infrastructure.
Integrating the Nation – Its Vastness and Voices
In a democracy, everyone is not only free, but also encouraged to voice his or her concerns. It is also necessary that these voices be heard and concerns redressed. However, all this should happen within the framework of our constitution and with the spirit of ‘India First’. We have to keep the Nation at the forefront of our thoughts and actions. Any activity, which disrupts the integrity of the nation, cannot be in the interest of any segment of the society or any region of the country. All Indians living in different regions of the country have an equal stake in the progress of the country and they have to be assured of the fruits of the progress.
- Presently, we see that there is a vast regional disparity between different regions of the country along developmental parameters, particularly between the western part and the eastern part. Despite their richness in both natural as well as human resources, eastern part of India still lags behind.
- We shall give the highest priority towards bringing the eastern parts of the country on par with the western parts. To that extent, there shall be special focus and emphasis on the development of the eastern side of India.
- Government will play the role of an enabler and a facilitator to the rapid progress of the states; planning along regional aspirations, strengths and potentials, evolving appropriate strategies for various zones of the country – hilly regions, plains, desert and coastal areas.
Regional aspirations: BJP has always stood for greater decentralization through smaller States.
Northeast : Resource rich North-Eastern states are lagging behind in development due to poor governance, systemic corruption and poor delivery of public services. NDA government had initiated concrete steps to address the issue of development of Northeast by setting up the Ministry of North- Eastern Region. We will empower this Ministry with a broader charter and non-lapsable funds for the rapid development of the region.
BJP will:
- put special emphasis on enhancing the connectivity within the region and to the rest of the country.
There will be special emphasis on massive infrastructure development, especially along the Line of Actual Control in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim.
- address the issue of Flood control in Assam and river water management.
- nurture more job generating opportunities like tourism and IT industry.
- address the issue of infiltration and illegal immigrants in the Northeast region on a priority basis.
This will include clear policy directions and effective control at the ground level.
- complete all pending fencing work along the India-Bangladesh and India-Myanmar border, stepping up border security.
- take measures for the safety of North-Eastern students studying across the country including setting up Hostels for North-Eastern students at various educational centres.
- deal with Insurgent groups with a firm hand.
Jammu and Kashmir: Jammu and Kashmir was, is and shall remain an integral part of the Union of India. The territorial integrity of India is inviolable. BJP will pursue an agenda of equal and rapid development in all the three regions of the state – Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh.
- The return of Kashmiri Pandits to the land of their ancestors with full dignity, security and assured livelihood will figure high on the BJP’s agenda.
- The long pending problems and demands of refugees from Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK) will be addressed.
- BJP reiterates its stand on the Article 370, and will discuss this with all stakeholders and remains committed to the abrogation of this article.
- All steps will be taken to provide good governance, better infrastructure, educational opportunities, healthcare and more job opportunities, leading to a better quality of life in the valley.
Seemandhra and Telangana: BJP is committed to do full justice to Seemandhra, and address the issues of development and governance of Seemandhra and Telangana.
Decentralization and People’s Participation
From Representative to Participatory Democracy
India is a country of immense diversity – a highly decentralized federal structure is thus crucial in meeting the varied ideas and aspirations of our diverse people. Power is currently concentrated in Delhi and the State capitals. We believe this power should be genuinely decentralized. BJP has stood for greater decentralization through devolving of powers to the states. A vast reservoir of People’s Power has not yet been tested in the real sense. We have not been able to involve the people in Governance as functionaries and facilitators.
- People’s Participation: Our developmental process will be a people’s movement – of Jan bhagidari.
We will make them the active drivers of development rather than mere passive recipients.
- People’s Engagement: Through Pro-active, Pro-people Good Governance, we will ensure the Government itself directly reaches out to the people, especially the weak and marginalized sections of society.
- We will further evolve the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model into a People-Public-Private
Partnership (PPPP) model.
- BJP is committed to strengthen self-Governance at the local level and we will empower Panchayati
Raj Institutions with extensive devolution of the 3 Fs – Functions, Functionaries and Funds.
- Good performers amongst the Panchayats will be rewarded with additional developmental grants.
- Strengthen the institution of the Gram Sabha, respecting their inputs and initiatives for development process.
- We will actively involve people in policy formulation and evaluation through various platforms.
- We will encourage Openness in the Government, involving all stakeholders in the decision-making processes.
Reform the System
Good Governance: Transparent, Effective, Involving and Encouraging
India First
BJP believes in India being one country, one people and one nation. BJP recognizes the importance of diversity in Indian society, and the strength and vibrancy it adds to the nation. The party believes in the principle of unity in diversity.
India constitutes of all its’ people, irrespective of caste, creed, religion or sex. It constitutes of all the communities – ethnic, social and cultural groups and also our culture, which is defined by tolerance and co-existence. The hallmark of India is “Unity in Diversity”. It constitutes of each and every inch of our land, its natural resources and mental and physical energy we possess. It constitutes of all the institutions made in the past and present.
India First simply means nurturing and protecting all the elements, which India is made of. It does not exclude anyone or anything – it only includes everything and everyone, which India is made of. It is complete India; without exclusion, without exception. It also means that whatever is in the interest of India will be in the interest of all the elements that India is made up of, including its citizens.
The counter to the concept of ‘India First’ is what is happening today; appeasement of one, at the cost of the other, using Institutions for protecting the interest of a particular party or persons. It is reflected in the thinking that whatever is not in the interest of a party is not in the interest of India. Clearly, Governance on these lines is not in the interest of India.
Simply speaking, ‘India First’ puts the national interest first while taking any decision or step both by Governments and citizens. Even more simply put, you have to just see the face of India and Indians when you are in doubt. This is what separates ‘India First’ from the present day politics and Governance of the Congress-led UPA.
For BJP:
- the only philosophy and religion of a Government should be India First.
- the only epic of a Government should be India’s Constitution.
- the only power of a Government should be the power of the people.
- the only prayer of a Government should be the welfare of its people.
- the only way of a Government should be ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’.
Open Government and Accountable Administration
Administrative reforms will be a priority for the BJP. Hence, we propose to implement them through an appropriate body under the PMO. The objective will be to bring in transparency in Government’s decision- making process. Government systems and processes would be relooked to make them citizen friendly, corruption free and accountable. Every effort will be made to meet the development aspirations of the people and make the Government agencies accountable to the citizens. We will set-up an effective Lokpal institution. Corruption at any level will be dealt with firmly and swiftly.
From birth certificate to school admission, from setting up business to paying of taxes, our present systems complicate the lives of our own people. We will reform it and make it easy in terms of access, efficiency and delivery. Following specific action will be initiated:
- digitization of Government records will be taken up on top priority so that they are easily accessible.
- performance review, social and environment audit would be mandated for all Government schemes and programmes.
- open up Government to draw expertise from the industry, academia and society into the services.
- government will be redefined by elimination of whatever is obsolete in laws, regulations, administrative structures, practices and would be purposive.
- we will generate ‘Kartavya Bhavna’ among public servants as lives and productivity of people is dependent on the quality and efficiency of public services.
On the whole, hallmarks of our Governance model would be:
- People-centric
- Policy driven
- Time bound delivery
- Minimum Government, Maximum Governance
E-Governance: Easy, Efficient and Effective
BJP believes that IT is a great enabler for empowerment, equity and efficiency. The NDA Government had made IT one of the major thrust areas. With the result, India is the IT capital for the whole world. But back home, the benefits of IT have not percolated down. This will be a high priority area for BJP that IT touches the lives of ordinary men and women. BJP has been known for good Governance and e- Governance will become the backbone for good Governance. BJP aims to nurture a Digital India – making every household and every individual digitally empowered.
Information Technology has made it possible to make information and services reach to the ordinary men and women even in remote areas, easily and effectively. Availability of information is the key to empowerment of the stakeholders. This also reduces the scope for discretion and manipulation.
We will:
- focus on increasing the penetration and usage of broadband across the country. Deployment of broadband in every village would be a thrust area.
- leverage technology for e-Governance and engage proactively with the people through social media for participative governance and effective public grievance redressal mechanism.
- generate IT based jobs in rural and semi-urban areas.
- make technology enabled products affordable for students.
- use technology to reduce the burden of books on children. Make all institutions and schools e- enabled in a phased manner. Digital learning and training to be used extensively.
- pursue a mission mode project under the ‘National Rural Internet and Technology Mission’ for use of telemedicine and mobile healthcare for rural healthcare delivery; use of IT for agriculture for real time information; Self Help Groups; retail trade and SMEs; and rural entrepreneurs, etc.
- initiate a National e-Governance Plan to cover every Government office from the centre to the panchayats. The ‘E-Gram, Vishwa Gram’ scheme in Gujarat to be implemented nationwide.
- promote e-Bhasha – National Mission for the promotion of IT in Indian Languages.
- focus to bring SC/ST, OBCs and other weaker sections of the society within the ambit of IT
enabled development.
- deploy IT to protect India’s priceless cultural and artistic heritage, which includes digitization of all archives and museology.
- promote ‘open source’ and ‘open standard’ software.
- mandate digitization of all government work to reduce corruption and delays.
- set up High-speed digital highways to unite the nation.
- use technology to reduce Transmission and distribution losses.
- use mobile and e-Banking to ensure financial inclusion.
BJP aims to make every household digitally literate with a goal to make India the Global Knowledge hub, with IT being a major driver and engine of growth.
Institutional Reform – Administrative, Judicial, Police and Electoral
Administrative
Today, people of this country are frustrated with the present system. Our administrative set up should be people-centric, responsive and result-oriented. With this in mind, we are committed to bring the following reforms:
- the administration and its members will be made truly accountable to their tasks as well as the people through rigorous evaluation process.
- good performance will be rewarded; non-performers will be given opportunities and training support to improve.
- rationalization and convergence among the Ministries, departments and other arms of the
Government will be ensured to focus on delivery.
- open up government to draw expertise from the industry, academia and society.
- services of youth in particular will be tapped to contribute in governance with Fellowship and
Internship programmes launched at various levels.
Judicial
BJP is committed to ensure Justice for All – justice which is prompt and accessible. Understanding that Justice Delayed is Justice Denied, we will adopt a multi-pronged approach to address the high pendency of cases in our judicial system.
We will:
- accord high priority to judicial reforms to address the issue of appointment of judges, filling the vacancies, opening new courts, setting up a mechanism for speedy clearance of the backlog of cases at various levels in the judiciary.
- initiate a mission mode project for filling the vacancies in the judiciary and for doubling the number of courts and judges in the subordinate judiciary.
- set up a National Judicial Commission for the appointment of judges in higher judiciary.
- create a fund for modernization of courts to improve the operational efficiency of courts.
- set up a separate class of courts for cases involving specified commercial laws which fast track the litigation process.
- reform the criminal justice system to make dispensation of justice simpler, quicker and more effective and after examining the recommendations of the earlier reports on this subject.
Initiate the computerization and networking of courts all over the country.
- extend fast track courts to all layers of the judiciary.
- expand alternative dispute redressal mechanisms through Lok Adalats and Tribunals.
- implement the National Litigation Policy in letter and spirit to reduce average pendency time of cases.
- review and reduce significantly the number of cases, in which the Government is a litigant in the next five years.
- periodically review and refine/ scrap outdated laws.
- create courts specially equipped to deal with IPR cases.
- give special emphasis to the development of Alternate Dispute Resolution mechanisms – like
Lok Adalats, Arbitration and Conciliation centres.
- set up a comprehensive National e-Library, empowering Lawyers.
- aim to enhance the number of women in the Bar as well as Bench, reducing the gender gap in judiciary.
- evolve a national network of specialized universities having expertise in complementary domains
- like Forensics, Arbitration, IPR, International Law, etc.
- develop India into a Global Hub for Arbitration and Legal Process Outsourcing.
We will simultaneously reform the legal system to make it more accessible to the common man. We will:
- undertake a comprehensive review of the legal system to simplify complex legislations – converge overlapping legislation, as well as remove contradictory and redundant laws.
- establish an institutional mechanism to periodically review and give suggestions for refining our laws.
- simplify legal procedure and language.
- make legal information open and freely accessible.
- run legal awareness programmes and introduce in school curriculum – making the common man aware of his rights and duties.
Police
Our police forces are entrusted with the crucial responsibility of maintaining law and public order, which forms one of the central pillars of our democracy. We will work with the states to empower them with the authority, independence and resources necessary to deliver:
- Roll out a comprehensive strategy for bringing the Indian Police at par with international standards.
- Facilitate training and capacity building of Police forces.
- Modernize the police force, equipping them with the latest technology.
- Initiate the networking of police stations across the country for intelligence sharing and crime control.
- Strengthen Investigations, making them Swift, Transparent, Fair, Clear and Decisive – acting as an inescapable deterrent to wrong- doers and a protective shield to the innocent.
- Develop specialized expertise in investigation; through continuous training, especially in evolving competencies.
- Overhaul our intelligence set up, with special focus on coordination and integration of human and technological intel – comprehensively gearing it towards collecting real time, specific and actionable inputs.
- Modernize our Prison system with technology and infrastructure; to strengthen the security as well human rights and correctional dimensions.
- Work towards evolving common national standards and protocols.
- Train and technologically enable the police to track, pursue, as well as prevent Cyber Crime.
- Bring Coastal States together on a common platform to discuss issues of Marine Policing.
- Reinterpret the age-old concept of community policing in modern times; evolving ways for the police to reach out to the people, building bonds of trust and friendship – including spreading out into areas of public safety and public wellness.
- Give special emphasis for improving the working conditions and welfare of police personnel.
Electoral
BJP is committed to initiate electoral reforms to eliminate criminals. The BJP will seek, through consultation with other parties, to evolve a method of holding Assembly and Lok Sabha elections simultaneously. Apart from reducing election expenses for both political parties and Government, this will ensure certain stability for State Governments. We will also look at revising expenditure limits realistically.
Widen the Platform
Certain segments of India have been historically disadvantaged. Due to a lopsided development approach and skewed allocation of resources, they continue to lag behind the rest of the country in socio- economic indicators in spite of having abundant natural resources and talent. Consequently, our demographic dividend is not being fully actualized. It is the duty of the government to enable every Indian to realize his or her full potential, ensuring equitable growth and development. We are committed towards this end, and will ensure the same by:
- Empowering each and every Indian through health and education.
- Increasing Opportunities by making Job creation central to our economic model.
- Ensuring a basic level of Infrastructure to all – Home, Electricity, Water, Toilets and Access.
Poor and Marginalized – Bridge the Gap
Our Government will be a government of the poor, marginalized and left behind. Every Indian has a right over everything that India has. From this, he or she is free to weave his or her own dreams. The India of tomorrow will have 125 crore such dreams, and will be built on the same. We will not only empower our citizens with the ability to dream; we will enable them with the capability to actualize their dreams.
The real test of the success of a development process lies in the happiness of the common man. The fruits of growth and development must reach the weakest, most deprived and remotest of people. With firm belief in the concept of Antyodaya – uplifting the poorest of the poor – Extreme Poverty and malnutrition will be treated as a National priority, and will be addressed on Mission Mode.
We will:
- strengthen Delivery of poverty alleviation programs through convergence, transparency and efficiency.
- identify 100 most backward districts of the country to bring them at par with other districts through prioritized and integrated development.
- strengthen the natural resource base of the people to tide over natural calamities.
- aim to gainfully employ rural poor in agriculture and allied activities.
- enable the urban poor to develop skills so that they take advantage of the emerging opportunities.
- facilitate partnership across all levels of government, civil society, academic and financial institutions in this national mission of poverty alleviation.
Food Security
BJP has always held that ‘universal food security’ is integral to national security. BJP will take steps to ensure that the benefits of the scheme reach the common man and that the right to food does not remain an act on paper or a political rhetoric. BJP will review all the laws and schemes, in consultation with the states, to ensure a corruption-free efficient implementation of food security, which would be a priority.
BJP will:
- review the successful PDS models, and incorporate the best practices to revise the existing PDS, for benefitting the common man.
- address the issue of under-nutrition and malnutrition.
- encourage the production of cereals, pulses and oils.
- radically transform the Food Corporation of India (FCI).
- ensure contingency stocks for any exigencies arising due to natural calamities or external factors.
- seek the participation of voluntary organizations in running community kitchens.
SCs, STs, OBCs and Other Weaker Sections – Social Justice and Empowerment
The BJP is committed to bridge the gap, following the principles of Samajik Nyay (social justice) and Samajik Samrasata (social harmony). This social justice must be further complemented with economic justice and political empowerment. Instead of pursuing identity politics and tokenisms, we will focus on empowering the deprived sections of society. Steps will be taken to create an enabling ecosystem of equal opportunity – for education, health and livelihood. We will accord highest priority to ensuring their security, especially the prevention of atrocities against SCs STs.
We believe that accelerated social justice and integrated development is the key to the progress of our country and success of our democracy. The BJP is committed to bridge the divide following the principle of social justice (Samajik Nyay) and social harmony (Samajik Samrasata). Instead of pursuing identity politics and tokenisms, which have not led to any tangible results for the SC, ST, OBCs and other weaker sections of our society, the BJP will focus on tangible development and empowerment.
- A high priority for SC, ST, OBCs and other weaker sections would be to create an ecosystem for education and entrepreneurship.
- BJP is committed to the eradication of untouchability at all levels.
- BJP is committed to eliminate manual scavenging.
- BJP will look at more effective ways to pull these people out of the poverty line.
- BJP will ensure that the funds allocated for schemes and programmes for SC, ST, OBCs and other weaker sections are utilized properly.
- A mission mode project would be made for housing, education, health and skills development.
- Special focus would be on the children, especially the girl child, with regards to health, education and skills development.
Tribal development will be one of the focus areas. BJP believes that half-hearted, incremental and piecemeal attempts for the development of tribals have not helped. So the BJP commits to make a comprehensive, all-encompassing long-term strategy to empower tribals and ensure their welfare. The goal would be to ensure tribal development while preserving the unique identities of this community. The Governments of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh have successfully implemented the tribal welfare and development schemes and their model would be used for tribal welfare and development.
BJP will initiate a ‘Van Bandhu Kalyan Yojna’ at the national level to be overseen by a ‘Tribal Development Authority’. This scheme will focus on:
- Setting up the entire education network for tribals.
- Upgrading housing, water and health facilities.
- Electrification of tribal hamlets and provision of all – weather roads.
- Initiating new economic activities.
- Promoting the products associated with the tribal culture by setting tribal haats in tourist towns and other centres.
- Ensure that the tribal land is not alienated.
- Facilitating access to minor forest produce and creating a network of rural haats (markets).
- Establishing the National Centre for Tribal Research and Culture to preserve the tribal culture and languages.
- Enhancing the funds for tribal welfare and development.
Minorities – Equal Opportunity
BJP believes that in India’s ‘Unity in Diversity’ lies India’s biggest strength. We cherish the depth and vibrancy that the diversity in Indian society adds to the nation. BJP is thus committed to the preservation of the rich culture and heritage of India’s minority communities; alongside their social and economic empowerment.
It is unfortunate that even after several decades of independence, a large section of the minority, and especially Muslim community continues to be stymied in poverty. Modern India must be a nation of equal opportunity. BJP is committed to ensure that all communities are equal partners in India’s progress, as we believe India cannot progress if any segment of Indians is left behind.
We will:
- Ensure that the young, and the girl child in particular get education and jobs without discrimination.
- Strengthen and modernize minority educational systems and institutions; dovetailing them with modern requirements. National Madrasa modernization programme would be initiated.
- Empower with vibrancy in Livelihood and Entrepreneurial opportunities.
- Augment their traditional artisanship and entrepreneurial skill, which are a backbone of our cottage and small-scale industry – strengthening these sectors through better market linkages, branding and access to credit.
- Empower Waqf Boards in consultation with religious leaders; taking steps to remove encroachments from and unauthorized occupation of Waqf properties.
- Curate their rich heritage and culture – maintenance and restoration of heritage sites; digitization of archives; preservation and promotion of Urdu.
- Ensure a peaceful and secure environment, where there is no place for either the perpetrators or exploiters of fear.
- Facilitate the setting up of a permanent Inter-faith Consultative mechanism to promote harmony and trust, under the auspices of religious leaders.
Neo-Middle Class – Meet their Aspirations
India has a large middle class with immense understanding, talent and purchasing power. In addition, a whole new class has emerged. Those who have risen from the category of poor and are yet to stabilize in the middle class, the ‘neo middle class’. This class needs proactive handholding. Having moved out of poverty, their aspirations have increased. They want amenities and services of a certain standard. They thus now feel that Government facilities and services are not up to the mark, and hence resort to the private sector for things like education, health and transport. This is obviously costly, putting the neo middle class into a daily dilemma. As more and more people move into this category, their expectations for better public services have to be met. We have to strengthen the Public Sector for providing efficient services to our citizens. In particular attention will be paid on government providing:
- Educational scholarships and educational facilities.
- Medical insurance and quality healthcare services.
- Middle-income housing.
- Efficient public transport systems.
Rural Areas – High Priority
Two-thirds of our people live in villages. Lack of amenities to live and opportunities to work, however, are restricting our rural life. Both these factors are the result of prolonged neglect. A full-fledged programme for ‘Rural Rejuvenation’ will be made and implemented which will comprise of integrated strategies for personal, economic and social well being of the villagers. Through the idea of Rurban, we will bring urban amenities to our rural areas, while retaining the soul of the village.
Agriculture, rural development and poverty alleviation go hand in hand. Major thrust area for rural development would be to improve village level infrastructure in terms of roads, potable water, education, health, supply chain, electricity, broadband, job creation, security in rural areas and linkage to markets.
Urban Areas – High Growth Centres
More than one-third of our population is already living in our cities and towns. Soon, the urban areas will cover half our people. Moreover, our cities should no longer remain a reflection of poverty and bottlenecks. Rather they should become symbols of efficiency, speed and scale.
- We will look at urbanisation as an Opportunity rather than a Threat.
- Major steps will be undertaken in Transport and Housing for ‘Urban Upliftment’ in India.
- We will initiate building 100 new cities; enabled with the latest in technology and infrastructure – adhering to concepts like sustainability, walk to work etc, and focused on specialized domains.
- The approach to urban development will be based on integrated habitat development – building on concepts like Twin cities and Satellite towns.
- Upgrade existing urban centres, transitioning focus from basic infrastructure to public utility services like Waste and Water Management – for a clean and healthy city life.
- Cleanliness and Sanitation will be given priority – efficient Waste and Water management systems will be set up. Model towns will be identified for rolling out integrated waste management infrastructure.
- Wi-Fi facilities will be made available in public places and commercial centres.
- Urban poverty alleviation scheme would be a key thrust area.
- Use technology for scientific, strategic and long term town planning – including GIS based mapping.
- Build quality integrated Public Transport systems, discouraging usage of private vehicles.
Leap Forward
We have to give the taste of a developed country to this very generation. We have to take a quantitative and qualitative leap. The time of knee jerk reactions and incremental changes has gone. What we need is a quantum jump and a total change. We also believe that development has to be holistic, uniform and all pervasive. Further, we have to make the people active partners in whatever is happening and empower them to take advantage of the development process. W