Kohima: Political veteran SC Jamir has offered a unique comparison between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. As Modi surpasses Nehru to become India's longest-serving elected Prime Minister with 4,399 days in office, Jamir highlights a fundamental shift in leadership styles. He observes that while Nehru operated as a philosopher, the current Prime Minister prioritizes a practical approach to governance.
Reflecting on his time as a parliamentary secretary under Nehru, Jamir notes that administrative culture was once heavily influenced by British systems. He contrasts this with today's environment, stating, "Panditji was a philosopher. Modi ji is a practical man. That's the difference." Jamir argues that Nehru relied primarily on institutions and official channels, whereas Modi engages directly with issues to gain firsthand insight into challenges facing the country, including those in the North-East.
Jamir credits the current administration with transforming economic development and the political climate in the North-East. He points to a significant increase in funding for the region compared to the era when he served as Chief Minister of Nagaland. Additionally, he highlights the progress made in the Naga peace process, noting that underground groups have engaged in landmark political agreements under Modi's leadership.
The former Chief Minister also critiques the economic model favored by the Nehru government, which he describes as a controlled, Russian-style planned economy restricted by licensing. In contrast, he views the current shift in economic policy as a primary driver behind India's emergence as one of the world's fastest-growing major economies.
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