Coalition govt good for India

Renowned economist JAGDISH BHAGWATI (90) is busy writing his memoir and is set to retire this academic year after a 65-year-long career in research and academia. In an exclusive interview with Ruchika Chitravanshi and Asit Ranjan Mishra on the sidelines of the Kautilya Economic Conclave in New Delhi, Bhagwati spoke on a wide range of issues, including trade protectionism, India's ambition to become a developed country, the 'middle-income trap' and the demographic dividend. The Columbia University professor also spoke about his 'inevitable' differences with his contemporary Amartya Sen. Edited excerpts:

- Ruchika Chitravanshi and Asit Ranjan Mishra

How do you see the first two terms of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government? Were they up to your expectations?

Of course. You need an Opposition for a functioning democracy, but I fear we don't have one. Without it, even a Prime Minister can develop an ego and make mistakes. The positive aspect is that he didn't secure a full majority, and within his coalition, he already has some opposition.

As you said, the Prime Minister is leading a coalition government for the first time. How big a drag can that be on policymaking?

I don't think so; many members share the same vision. For instance, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu is unlikely to act like the Opposition. Modi's initiatives, like building toilets for women, have broad support. He prioritises women's issues and continually seeks to improve. The women in his Cabinet, including the finance minister, and Smriti Irani, are impressive figures who have risen without dynastic connections. This is big, especially since women make up half of India's population. The Prime Minister understands their needs, marking a historic shift for women's empowerment. We're fortunate to have him, as he maintains a form of quasiOpposition within his coalition. I am suggesting that the coalition should be looked upon as something good. Proper Opposition can only emerge from within, given that the Congress party isn't providing it.

There is growing protectionism in the world, and the World Trade Organization is almost dysfunctional. Do you think this is a transitory phase? I think it is a passing phase.