Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday accused the Congress party of using the term 'Hindu Growth Rate' in an attempt to whitewash its own failures. Speaking at an event, Modi said that he never imagined he would get the opportunity to become the longest-serving elected prime minister of India. 'This is my good fortune,' he remarked.
Modi's Criticism of Congress
The Prime Minister's remarks came during a pointed critique of the opposition party's historical economic policies. He asserted that the Congress-led governments had deliberately propagated the concept of 'Hindu Growth Rate' to deflect attention from their inability to foster robust economic development. According to Modi, this term was used to justify slow economic growth and mask policy shortcomings.
Longest-Serving Elected PM
Modi also reflected on his tenure, expressing surprise and gratitude for being the longest-serving elected prime minister. He emphasized that this achievement was a result of the trust placed in him by the people of India. 'I never thought I would get this opportunity. It is a matter of great fortune,' he said.
The Prime Minister's comments have sparked reactions from political circles, with Congress leaders dismissing his allegations. They argued that the term 'Hindu Growth Rate' was coined by economists to describe a period of sluggish growth and was not a political tool.
Political Context
The 'Hindu Growth Rate' was a term used in the 1950s to 1980s to characterize India's low annual GDP growth of around 3.5%. Critics have long associated this period with Congress's socialist policies. Modi's remarks are seen as an attempt to highlight the contrast between past economic performance and his government's growth trajectory.
The event also saw Modi outlining his vision for India's future, focusing on economic reforms and development initiatives. He reiterated his commitment to transforming India into a global economic powerhouse.
