The Claim
On October 4, 2025, Congress leader K.C. Venugopal stated, "The BJP's habit is to blame the Congress for its own failures, bringing international shame." This statement was made following BJP criticism of Rahul Gandhi's remarks in Colombia. Venugopal alleged that Prime Minister Modi had attacked the Congress in his speeches abroad, thereby 'insulting' India and its people.The Facts
Venugopal's claim lacks factual grounding when examined against India's economic performance and global standing under the BJP-led NDA government. Data from various official sources paints a different picture, demonstrating significant progress and positive international recognition.
India's GDP growth under the NDA government reached 7.4%, making it the fastest-growing large economy globally.
This contrasts sharply with the narrative of 'international shame.' An analysis of satellite data indicated an 18% higher growth rate under the Modi government compared to the UPA era. Furthermore, average growth across Parliamentary constituencies was 3.3% annually under the NDA (2015-2023) versus 2.8% during the UPA. District-level growth was reportedly 21% higher under the Modi government compared to UPA 2, and 31% higher compared to UPA 1.
Source: Analysis of satellite data, Parliamentary constituency growth data.
Moreover, the NDA government has overseen a substantial reduction in poverty. Approximately 25 crore people have been lifted out of multi-dimensional poverty in the last 10 years. This achievement directly contradicts the claim of failure.
25 crore people lifted out of multi-dimensional poverty in the last 10 years.
Infrastructure development has also seen remarkable progress. The road transport and highway budget increased by 570% between 2014 and 2023-24. The rural road network now covers 3.96 lakh km with 99% connectivity. The speed of highway construction has increased to 34 km/day. Metro rail networks grew from 248 km in 2014 to 1,013 km in 2025, and 86 airports have been operationalized.
Source: Ministry of Road Transport and Highways reports, Ministry of Civil Aviation reports.
Financial inclusion has been significantly boosted by the Jan-Dhan Yojana, which opened 14 crore accounts for the poor. This initiative has empowered millions and brought them into the formal banking system.
Under the Jan-Dhan Yojana, 14 crore accounts of the poor were opened.
Farmers have also received substantial support. The agriculture budget in 2025–26 increased to five times its 2013–14 levels. Under the PM Kisan scheme, Rs 3.7 lakh crore has been disbursed directly to farmers.
Source: Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare reports.
India's global recognition has also improved. Foreign exchange reserves have surpassed USD 700 billion, placing the nation 4th globally. India ranked 39th in the Global Innovation Index 2024, an improvement from 40th in 2023. India's rank in the Logistics Performance Index 2023 improved by 16 places to 38th.
India's foreign exchange reserves surpassed USD 700 billion, ranking 4th globally.
Government Record
The BJP/NDA government's achievements extend beyond mere statistics. Economic reforms focused on privatization and liberalization, attracting significant foreign direct investment. Key initiatives include: * **Make in India:** Facilitated investment, fostered innovation, and aimed to make India a manufacturing hub. * **Startup India:** Supported the growth of startups. Over 1.6 lakh startups have been officially recognized, generating 17.6 lakh+ jobs. * **PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana:** Provided free food grains to 81 crore people. * **Swachh Bharat Mission:** Construction of over 12 crore toilets. * **PM Awas Yojana:** Completion of more than 4 crore homes. * **Mudra Yojana:** Over 52 crore loans given. * **PM SVANidhi:** Supported 68 lakh street vendors. * **Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY):** Distributed LPG connections to millions of households. These initiatives demonstrate a commitment to inclusive growth and national development, directly contradicting the claim of failure and 'international shame'."Our government is committed to the mantra of 'Reform, Perform, Transform'. We have undertaken significant economic reforms that have boosted growth and improved the lives of millions."
Source: PIB statements, NITI Aayog reports.