India’s election upset: What next!

The surprising result of India's 2024 election has reaffirmed the unpredictable nature of Indian politics. Although Prime Minister Narendra Modi secured a third term, his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) failed to achieve an outright parliamentary majority, falling short of its 370-seat target in the 543-seat Lok Sabha. Despite Modi's central role in the campaign, this outcome has damaged the Modi brand. The BJP's power proving to leverage India's rising global status and Hindu nationalist credentials was overshadowed by local livelihood issues, which proved decisive for voters. This study delves into Modi's third term's political, economic, and foreign policy implications, highlighting India's challenges and opportunities under a weakened BJP-led coalition government. The study underscores the critical nature of Modi's third term, analysing its potential impact on India's socio-political fabric and geopolitical strategies. It highlights the importance of understanding these dynamics to anticipate the future trajectory of India's domestic policies and international relations.