Modi, BJP play up India's rising global status to woo voters

Foreign policy achievements being touted to bolster PM’s image ahead of elections

- Nirmala Ganapathy

India's foreign policy achievements continue to be played up by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his party as they court voters ahead of a general election expected to be held in April and May.

On Feb 18, at a meeting of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) cadres, he said all countries around the world are seeking to court him, in a sign of India's global standing.

He added that his government is getting invitations from foreign governments for meetings, even after the election, where he is seeking a third term in office.

"They also know aayega toh Modi hi (only Modi will return)," he added.

The ruling BJP has also touted as successes India's deepening ties with the United States, its tough posture against Pakistan and China, and closer links with the Middle East, particularly the United Arab Emirates.

Party spokesman Tom Vadakkan said: "This is our track record. It will figure in our interface with people and speeches."

Political analysts said the tactic is one way the BJP can further bolster the Prime Minister's image as a strong leader, and the party has been keen to highlight the feelgood factor in India's foreign policy and how the country's global standing is aiding Indians.

"I think what BJP is trying to do is to campaign as if ordinary Indians should care about foreign policy. And that is why you keep hearing the narrative about the value of the Indian passport and India rising on the global stage," said Mr Rahul Verma, a fellow at the Centre for Policy Research.