India’s path to development has been shaped by visionary leaders, including Deen Dayal Upadhyay Ji and Narendra Modi Ji. Both leaders have significantly influenced the country’s trajectory, and their philosophies converge in the pursuit of an inclusive and sustainable development model. This article explores the relationship between Antyodaya and the HIRA model of development, offering a comprehensive framework for India’s advancement.
Deen Dayal Upadhyay Ji and Antyodaya
The concept of Antyodaya, introduced by Deen Dayal Upadhyay Ji, focuses on the upliftment and empowerment of the most marginalized sections of society. Antyodaya, which translates to “rise of the last person,” aims to ensure that the benefits of development reach those who are often left behind. This principle is rooted in Integral Humanism, a philosophy that Upadhyay Ji propagated. Integral Humanism emphasizes the interconnectedness of human beings, nature, and the economy, guiding the development agenda to address the physical, mental, and spiritual needs of individuals.
Upadhyay Ji’s vision was not just about material prosperity but also about elevating human consciousness. As he wrote in his book “Integral Humanism”, “The ultimate goal of human life is not just economic prosperity, but the attainment of a higher level of consciousness, which enables us to realize our true potential as human beings.”
In line with Upadhyay Ji’s principles, Narendra Modi Ji has been a staunch advocate of Antyodaya, incorporating it into his policies. His government has launched numerous initiatives that focus on empowering marginalized communities, whether through social welfare schemes or access to services that improve their quality of life.
Narendra Modi Ji and the HIRA Model of Development
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has introduced the HIRA model of development, which is a comprehensive approach focused on infrastructure improvement. The acronym HIRA stands for Highways, Internet, Railways, and Airways. This model aims to modernize India’s infrastructure and is aligned with the broader vision of Integral Humanism, seeking to create a balance between economic growth and human well-being.
The key components of the HIRA model are:
- Highways: The development of modern highways is aimed at improving connectivity, reducing travel time, and increasing economic efficiency. Highways serve as essential lifelines for the transportation of goods and services, particularly in rural and remote areas.
- Internet: Expanding internet access is crucial for bridging the digital divide. Increased internet connectivity ensures that people across India, including those in rural areas, can access online services, education, health information, and government schemes.
- Railways: The expansion and modernization of India’s railway network are pivotal for ensuring efficient, affordable, and safe transportation for both passengers and goods. This is crucial for linking urban and rural areas, promoting trade and economic activities.
- Airways: The development of airports and air connectivity boosts trade, tourism, and the overall economy. Modernizing airways infrastructure facilitates national and international connectivity, providing both logistical advantages and growth opportunities for industries.
Viksit Bharat: A Vision for India’s Development
Shri Narendra Modi has articulated the vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India), set to be realized by 2047, marking the centenary of India’s independence. This vision includes not just economic prosperity but also a focus on social progress, environmental sustainability, and good governance.
The four pillars of Viksit Bharat are:
- Yuva (Youth): Empowering the youth of India to be the driving force behind the nation’s development.
- Garib (Poor): Uplifting the poor and marginalized sections of society, ensuring they have equal opportunities for growth and prosperity.
- Mahila (Women): Empowering women to be equal contributors to India’s development journey, ensuring their full participation in economic, social, and political spheres.
- Kisan (Farmers): Supporting the agricultural community through reforms, financial support, and technological advancements, ensuring food security and sustainable farming practices.
Convergence of HIRA and Antyodaya
The HIRA model of development and Antyodaya are intertwined in the pursuit of a balanced and inclusive growth model. While the HIRA model focuses on building the infrastructure necessary for economic growth and connectivity, Antyodaya ensures that these benefits are felt by the most vulnerable groups in society. By investing in infrastructure, the government seeks to foster employment, economic development, and improved living standards. At the same time, Antyodaya ensures that the most marginalized populations—whether in rural or urban areas—are not left behind.
For instance, improved highways and railways facilitate better access to markets, leading to increased incomes for rural farmers. The expansion of the internet provides rural communities with access to educational resources and government services, while the development of airports boosts tourism, offering new job opportunities.
The Viksit Bharat vision binds the two concepts, offering a roadmap for a developed India that is economically prosperous and socially inclusive.
Benefits to Rural India
The policies aligned with the HIRA model and Antyodaya have particularly benefited rural India, where the majority of the population resides. Some of the key benefits include:
- Employment Opportunities: Through infrastructure development projects, such as roads, highways, and railways, numerous rural Indians have gained access to job opportunities. Additionally, schemes like PM-KISAN and self-help groups have created avenues for income generation.
- Improved Connectivity: With better connectivity through roads, the internet, and mobile services, rural Indians can access essential services, healthcare, educational content, and information about markets and government schemes.
- Increased Income: Initiatives such as PM-KISAN (direct income support for farmers) have had a positive impact on the incomes of rural households, raising their standard of living.
- Empowerment of Women: Self-help groups and financial inclusion programs have given rural women the resources and training they need to start businesses, improve their households, and participate in local decision-making.
Conclusion
The HIRA model, Antyodaya, and Viksit Bharat form a unified framework for India’s development. These guiding principles ensure that India’s progress is inclusive, equitable, and sustainable. Under the leadership of Narendra Modi Ji, India is moving towards a future where prosperity and progress are accessible to all. By continuing to focus on infrastructure development, social inclusion, and economic empowerment, India is well on its way to achieving its goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047.
(The writer is a Delhi-based researcher.)