NDA and INDIA: All you need to know about both political alliances

As India braces for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, 26 opposition parties have come together to form an alliance named Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) to challenge the incumbent Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). This significant reshaping of the political landscape represents a unified response from the opposition parties for the first time.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, unperturbed by the emergence of this new opposition front, has launched a scathing attack against INDIA, criticising it as a 'negative' coalition and contrasting it with the NDA's focus on development and inclusivity.

Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA)

The INDIA alliance is a new political coalition, previously known as the United Progressive Alliance (UPA), and comprises 26 opposition parties, including the Indian National Congress and the Trinamool Congress (TMC). The new name was proposed by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee during an opposition meeting in Bengaluru on Tuesday, July 18. The alliance aims to establish a structure and a common agenda to challenge the BJP in the upcoming elections.

Transition from UPA to INDIA

The transition from UPA to INDIA signifies the opposition's intent to present a united front against the NDA in the forthcoming elections. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge made the announcement, and Sonia Gandhi, former Congress President, is currently chairing the ongoing meetings. There are indications that Sonia Gandhi may be appointed as the chairperson of the alliance.

National Democratic Alliance (NDA)

The NDA, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is a time-tested alliance focused on national progress and regional aspirations. Currently, NDA includes 38 constituents, including many smaller regional outfits. It has significant partnerships with key allies such as the AIADMK, Lok Janshakti Party, and Shiv Sena. Narendra Modi often emphasises the NDA's focus on the country's development and highlights its achievements. His government criticises opposition parties for allegedly promoting corruption, division, and nepotism. According to Modi, in the NDA, 'N' stands for New India, 'D' for Developed Nation, and 'A' for the aspirations of people and regions, symbolising contribution rather than compulsion.