Union Minister Smriti Irani, renowned for her dynamic presence in Indian politics and her passionate advocacy on various crucial social issues has become a prominent figure in Amethi through her relentless efforts, consistent local engagement and several development initiatives. All of her endeavours in the constituency have been reflective of her commitment to the region.
Development Initiatives Under Irani’s Tenure
During her tenure as the Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Irani had spearheaded several significant policy reforms and initiatives aimed at empowering women and protecting children’s rights. Her proactive governance approach and strong advocacy for social welfare programs have garnered widespread praise, enhancing her popularity among Amethi’s electorate.
Irani has been vocal about addressing longstanding issues in Amethi. According to reports, Sixteen lakh people out of a population of 23-24 lakh in Amethi did not have access to toilets, and 1.5 lakh families did not have electricity connections. These issues have been resolved in the five years during Smriti Irani’s tenure in the constituency.
She has also overseen the fulfillment of projects that were demanded for the last 30 years, like bypasses and expressway connections. Trauma centers were build from scratch under her governance in the constituency along with administrative units like the chief medical officer’s office, police lines, the first dialysis center, and the first CT scan machine.
It has also been reported that 19 lakh people in Amethi are beneficiaries of the free ration scheme under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, indicating “inter-generational poverty” in the region, which Smriti Irani and the BJP have been combating.
Economic Growth and Employment
Irani emphasized the strides made in employment and economic development. Amethi has been have 13,000 MSMEs registered, Asia’s largest Coca-Cola bottling plant, and Uttar Pradesh’s largest poultry and feedstock plant in Amethi. During her tenure 5,200 street hawkers were provided with loans like the Mudra loans to 1 lakh people, with NPAs below 2.5%.
She also brought to light the several benefits of the Prime Minister’s cash transfer scheme for reproductive and maternal health, which has allegedly supported 90,000 women in her constituency.
The Opposition’s Challenge
Irani faces a formidable opponent in Congress leader Kishori Lal Sharma, who has a strong and old connection with the constituency and focuses his campaign on unemployment, agrarian distress, and healthcare. Sharma’s presence adds a significant challenge, as he resonates with the local population’s concerns.
Election Dynamics and Future Implications
The upcoming election in Amethi, scheduled for May 20 in the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha Elections, is anticipated to be a fierce face off between Smriti Irani and Kishori Lal Sharma. Irani’s robust track record in the constituency and her proactive approach in addressing the needs of the locals residing there have positioned her as a formidable contender. In contrast, Sharma’s experience and deep-rooted connection with the grassroots make him a significant challenger.
Smriti Irani’s achievements in Amethi reflect her dedication to development and social welfare, making her a powerful force in Indian politics. The electoral battle in Amethi is a microcosm of the larger political landscape, and its results will be keenly watched across the country.
