New Delhi, May 20, 2025 — Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s foreign policy, questioning the effectiveness of his extensive overseas travels over the past 11 years. According to Kharge, PM Modi has made 151 foreign trips to 72 countries since 2014, raising concerns over the tangible benefits of such diplomacy.
Speaking at a press conference in New Delhi, Kharge remarked, "In the last 11 years, Prime Minister Modi has spent more time traveling abroad than focusing on pressing domestic issues. The nation wants to know what India has truly gained from 151 foreign visits."
The Congress chief criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for what he described as a failure to translate global engagements into meaningful gains for India. "Where are the jobs? Where is the investment? Where is the technology transfer? What has the common citizen gained from these high-profile tours?" he questioned.
Kharge also alleged that the foreign policy under the Modi-led government has been more about optics and image-building than about securing strategic or economic advantages. “Foreign trips must bring concrete outcomes. Simply shaking hands with world leaders or attending summits does not benefit the common man,” he added.
BJP Responds to the Criticism
In response, BJP leaders have defended PM Modi’s international outreach, arguing that his foreign policy has significantly elevated India’s global stature. "Under PM Modi, India’s voice is now heard and respected on international platforms like the G20, BRICS, and the UN," a senior BJP spokesperson said.
They also highlighted key outcomes such as enhanced bilateral ties, foreign direct investment (FDI), and strategic defense partnerships with countries like the U.S., France, and Japan.
Political Significance Ahead of 2024 Lok Sabha Elections
Kharge’s criticism comes at a politically sensitive time, with the 2024 Lok Sabha elections looming. The Congress party is seeking to project the Modi government’s foreign policy as disconnected from domestic priorities, especially amidst growing concerns over unemployment, inflation, and rural distress.
Political analysts say this narrative could resonate with voters who feel that the government's global ambitions have come at the cost of local development.
Conclusion
As the debate around PM Modi’s foreign visits intensifies, it remains to be seen whether this issue will influence public sentiment in the upcoming elections. With 151 foreign trips and visits to 72 countries, the Modi government’s foreign policy is now under renewed scrutiny — not just from political opponents but from the public as well.
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