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Decoding PM Modi’s ‘South push’: Will BJP’s ‘target 370’ shake regional bastions?

Analysing the factors and implications of PM Modi’s ‘South push’ strategically aimed at placing the BJP in the historically less-aligned region

PM Modi during a roadshow at Tamil Nadu’s Palladam. (File photo: PTI)

Munish Chandra Pandey
New Delhi,UPDATED: Mar 6, 2024 20:54 IST
Edited By: Sahil Sinha

PM Modi has significantly intensified his focus on the southern states
Southern states have been bastions of regional parties and the Congress
BJP’s successes in South has emboldened its efforts to expand its footprint

In recent times, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has significantly intensified his focus on the southern states, signaling a strategic shift in political outreach and governance priorities.
This ‘South push’ reveals a nuanced approach, seeking to consolidate political support, foster economic development, and address regional concerns in a historically less Bharatiya Janata Party-aligned region.

Analysing the factors and implications of this southward push provides insights into the evolving dynamics of Indian politics.

POLITICAL REALIGNMENT
PM Modi’s concerted efforts in the southern states reflect a recognition of the BJP’s historical under-representation in the region. Traditionally, the southern states, particularly Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh, have been bastions of regional parties and the Congress.

However, the BJP’s electoral successes in recent years, notably in Karnataka and to some extent in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, have emboldened its efforts to expand its footprint further southward.

The South push is also believed to bolster PM Modi’s confidence to win 370 Lok Sabha seats for the BJP and 400 for the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the 2024 general elections.

ECONOMIC IMPERATIVES
Beyond political gains, the South push aligns with India’s broader economic agenda. Southern states contribute significantly to the country’s GDP, boasting robust industrial sectors, thriving IT hubs, and a strong services economy. Recognising the region’s economic potential, PM Modi’s initiatives aim to leverage these strengths, promoting investment, infrastructure development, and job creation.

CULTURAL OUTREACH
Cultural symbolism also plays a crucial role in PM Modi’s South push. The Prime Minister has made efforts to engage with the unique cultural identities and sensitivities of southern states, fostering a sense of inclusivity and representation. From participating in regional festivals to promoting local languages, these gestures resonate with the populace, contributing to a sense of connect and belonging.

STRATEGIC GEOPOLITICAL CONSIDERATIONS
The South push is not confined to domestic politics but also holds geopolitical significance. With China’s increasing influence in the Indian Ocean region, the southern coastline assumes heightened strategic importance. Strengthening ties with southern states, particularly Tamil Nadu, offers India a strategic advantage in maritime security and regional cooperation.

CHALLENGES & OPPORTUNITIES
However, PM Modi’s South push is not without challenges. Lingual and cultural diversity, entrenched regional identities, and historical political affiliations present hurdles to the BJP’s expansion efforts. Moreover, addressing state-specific issues and sensitivities requires a nuanced and adaptive approach.

PM Modi made multiple visits to southern temples before the Ram Mandir ‘Pran Pratisthan’ ceremony in Ayodhya in January 2024:

Veerabhadra Temple, Andhra Pradesh – January 16

Guruvayur Temple, Kerala – January 17

Thriprayar Shree Ramaswami Temple, Kerala – January 17

Ranganathaswamy Temple, Tamil Nadu – January 20

PM’S RECENT VISITS & RALLIES
March 5

PM launched various projects in Sangareddy, Telangana. The PM laid the foundation stone and dedicated to the nation multiple development projects worth more than Rs 6,800 crore in Sangareddy, Telangana.

The PM offered prayers at Sri Ujjaini Mahakali Devasthanam, Telangana.

March 4

PM Modi witnessed the commencement of Kalpakkam.

February 29

The PM addressed the Viksit Bharat, Viksit Madhya Pradesh programme.

February 28

PM Modi addressed the laying of foundation stone/ inauguration/dedication of various projects at Thoothukudi (Tuticorin). He laid the foundation stone and dedicated multiple development projects worth more than Rs 17,300 crore in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu.

February 27

The PM offered prayers at Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple.

The PM addressed at the Digital Mobility Initiative for Automotive MSMEs in Madurai, Tamil Nadu.

He addressed the inauguration of various projects at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre in Kerala.

PM Modi’s South push represents a multi-faceted strategy aimed at political consolidation, economic development, cultural integration, and geopolitical positioning. While the road ahead may be fraught with challenges, the strategic imperative of engaging with the southern states underscores the evolving dynamics of Indian politics.
Published By:
Sahil Sinha
Published On:
Mar 6, 2024

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