Economist Podcasts Which way UP: India’s bellwether election
Feb 10, 2022
In a captivating discussion, Max Rodenbeck, The Economist's South Asia bureau chief, and Mathieu Favas, a finance correspondent, dive into the political landscape of Uttar Pradesh, spotlighting its implications for Prime Minister Modi's Hindu-national agenda ahead of the 2024 elections. They also unravel the complexities of fossil fuel divestment in light of climate activism and investor pressures, highlighting the paradox of oil companies selling off polluting assets. Finally, they analyze shifting global democracy trends, revealing both alarming declines and unexpected resilience in various regions.
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UP Election Significance
- Uttar Pradesh's state election is a key indicator of Narendra Modi's popularity and his Hindu nationalist agenda's effectiveness.
- The election's outcome holds significance for Modi's 2024 re-election bid.
UP's Political Weight
- Uttar Pradesh, India's most populous state, holds significant political influence due to its size.
- Its demographics and timing make its elections crucial for national politics.
UP's Complex Political Landscape
- Uttar Pradesh's political landscape is complex, shaped by caste and religious divisions.
- Government handouts and development work influenced some villages' voting preferences.