India, one of the world's fastest-growing economies, has undergone significant transformations since 2014. While many reforms and developments have taken place, several challenges have also emerged. From economic slowdowns to social unrest, rising unemployment, and environmental concerns, various problems have intensified over the years. This article explores the major issues that have surfaced in India after 2014 and their impact on the country’s progress.
1. Economic Slowdown
India’s economic growth rate was once among the highest in the world. However, after 2016, GDP growth declined, especially post the implementation of demonetization and the Goods and Services Tax (GST). The slowdown was further worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
GDP Growth Rate: Before and After 2014
- Before 2014 (2009–2014): India’s GDP growth rate averaged approximately 6.7% annually.
- After 2014 (2014–2019): The economy witnessed an average annual growth rate of around 7.5%, but several economic disruptions contributed to slowdowns in later years.
Factors Contributing to Economic Slowdown
- Demonetization (2016): The sudden removal of 500 and 1000 rupee notes disrupted cash-based businesses, led to liquidity crises, and reduced consumer spending.
- GST Implementation (2017): While intended to simplify taxation, the rollout led to confusion among small businesses and temporarily slowed down economic activities.
- COVID-19 Pandemic (2020–2021): Lockdowns led to massive job losses, business closures, and contraction in industrial output.
- Declining Foreign Investments: Global investors started hesitating due to policy uncertainties and fluctuating market conditions.
2. Rising Unemployment
Unemployment in India has seen an upward trend, particularly among the youth. The job market has struggled to provide enough employment opportunities despite government initiatives like "Make in India" and "Skill India."
Unemployment Rate: Before and After 2014
- Before 2014: The unemployment rate was approximately 5.44%.
- After 2014: The rate fluctuated, reaching 7.86% in 2020 due to the pandemic's impact and was reported at 8.30% in December 2024.
Reasons Behind Rising Unemployment
- Lack of New Industries
- Automation and AI
- Educational-Industry Gap
- Decline in Informal Jobs
3. National Debt and Fiscal Challenges
Central Government Debt: Before and After 2014
- Before 2014 (2013–14): ₹55.87 lakh crore
- After 2014 (2022–23): ₹153 lakh crore
Debt-to-GDP Ratio
- Before 2014: 23.3%
- After 2014: 81.59%
The rising debt-to-GDP ratio raises concerns about India’s ability to manage debt efficiently, requiring effective fiscal strategies to avoid economic crises.
4. Social and Religious Tensions
Key Issues Leading to Tensions
- Rise of Hate Speech
- Religious Intolerance
- Social Media Misinformation
5. Declining Press Freedom and Media Bias
Concerns in Indian Media
- Suppression of Dissent
- Paid News
- Censorship on Social Media
6. Agricultural Crisis and Farmers' Protests
Challenges Faced by Farmers
- Low Crop Prices
- Lack of Irrigation Facilities
- Climate Change
- Debt Burden
7. Environmental Degradation
Major Environmental Issues
- Air Pollution
- Deforestation
- Water Crisis
- Climate Change
8. Rising Crime Rates Against Women
Reasons Behind Increasing Crime
- Lack of Strong Implementation of Laws
- Delayed Justice System
- Patriarchal Mindset in Society
9. Political Instability and Corruption
Challenges in Politics
- Frequent Electoral Disputes
- Corruption in Public Sector
- Use of Religion in Politics
10. Digital Divide and Cybersecurity Threats
Issues in the Digital Sector
- Rise in Cyber Crimes
- Data Privacy Issues
- Digital Divide
Conclusion
While India has achieved significant progress in many sectors, the challenges discussed above pose serious hurdles to its growth. Addressing these problems requires strong policy measures, better governance, and active participation from citizens. India’s future depends on how effectively these issues are tackled to ensure sustainable and inclusive development.