Introduction
Nirmala Sitharaman is a senior Indian politician from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and has played a crucial role in India’s political landscape. She has held key ministerial positions, including Defence Minister (2017-2019) and Finance Minister (2019-present). Her journey from a spokesperson to one of India’s most influential policymakers is remarkable. This article explores her political career, achievements, and leadership in the Indian government.
Early Political Career
Entry into Politics & BJP Spokesperson (2006-2014)
- Nirmala Sitharaman joined the BJP in 2006, starting her political journey as a party spokesperson.
- She became known for her articulate defense of BJP’s policies on television debates and press conferences.
- In 2010, she was appointed as BJP’s national spokesperson, becoming one of the party’s most recognizable faces.
- Her rise in the BJP was credited to her sharp debating skills, strategic communication, and strong ideological commitment.
Ministerial Roles and Achievements
Minister of State for Commerce and Industry (2014-2017)
- In May 2014, after BJP’s historic victory, she was inducted into Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s cabinet as the Minister of State for Commerce and Industry (Independent Charge).
- Key Achievements:
- Promoted “Make in India” to boost domestic manufacturing.
- Strengthened India’s trade relations with global partners.
- Focused on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) reforms to attract more investment.
India’s First Full-Time Woman Defence Minister (2017-2019)
- On September 3, 2017, Nirmala Sitharaman was appointed as India’s Defence Minister, succeeding Arun Jaitley.
- She became India’s first full-time woman Defence Minister, marking a historic moment in Indian politics.
- Key Achievements:
- Finalized the Rafale fighter jet deal to strengthen the Indian Air Force.
- Led India’s response to the Pulwama attack, resulting in the Balakot airstrikes in February 2019.
- Boosted India’s defense manufacturing sector under the Make in India initiative.
- Strengthened strategic partnerships with the US, Russia, and France.
Union Finance Minister (2019-Present)
- In May 2019, after BJP’s second consecutive victory, Nirmala Sitharaman was appointed as India’s Finance Minister, succeeding Arun Jaitley.
- She became India’s first full-time woman Finance Minister.
- Key Achievements:
- Presented India’s Union Budgets with a focus on economic reforms, infrastructure, and digitalization.
- Led India’s economic recovery post COVID-19 pandemic through stimulus packages and financial reforms.
- Spearheaded policies like Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) and corporate tax cuts to boost investment.
- Focused on privatization of public sector enterprises and banking sector reforms.
Challenges Faced
- Managed economic slowdown and inflation during global economic challenges.
- Handled criticism over GST implementation and job creation.
- Balanced defense budget constraints while ensuring national security as Defence Minister.
Conclusion
Nirmala Sitharaman’s political career showcases her determination, leadership, and policy-making skills. From being a BJP spokesperson to holding top ministerial portfolios, she has played a crucial role in shaping India’s economic and defense policies. Her tenure as Defence Minister and Finance Minister highlights her ability to lead in high-pressure environments. She remains one of India’s most influential women politicians and continues to shape the country’s economic and financial future.
Reference Websites
- The Hindu – www.thehindu.com
- Times of India – www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com
- NDTV – www.ndtv.com
- Economic Times – www.economictimes.indiatimes.com
- Hindustan Times – www.hindustantimes.com