The democratic process is alive and well. Hundreds of millions voted into power, Mr. Narendra Modi as the new Prime Minister of India. The new guard brings with it new hopes and aspirations for people of a largely developing nation where broken promises, political corruption and nepotism and have been the rule of the day.
Infrastructure has not kept up with the pace of growth — both economic and demographic — with rampant bureaucracy and antiquated systems being the norm.
I have fond memories of growing up in a privileged environment in India, and my family still calls it home. The human talent in the country is among the best in the world. My college friends often joked that I increased the IQ in both India and America when I came here to make a life for myself. Part tongue in cheek, part truth?
The unfortunate reality of India is that the more things change, the more they stay the same. The expectations from the electorate are simple. Build infrastructure, eliminate corruption, ensure safety for women, create jobs, and bridge the income divide between the “haves” and the “have nots.” These Herculean tasks are not for the faint of heart. Or the corrupt.
My advise to the politicians? Don’t crush the dreams of the people who got you here.
There are other promise-makers waiting in the wings!
About Hemant Rustogi
Totally agree with Heamant! The lackluster pace of infrastructure growth amid the burgeoning population defeats a lot of things. We sincerely hope the new government and Mr. Modi to bring in a tide of change in all spheres. Most importantly, I hope they institute measures and laws to put an end to the atrocities against woman. That is absolutely essential.