As someone deeply engaged in workers’ education, rural banking, and trade union leadership, I have spent decades witnessing the struggles and dreams of India’s middle class. Whether serving as the Regional Advisory Chairman of the Dantopant Thengadi National Board for Workers’ Education and Development, my 37 years of association with Rural Banking, or a trade union leader with Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh (BMS), I have observed in today’s India, where the hopes of millions hinge on responsive governance, one leader stands apart as the true voice of the common citizen – Shri Piyush Goyal. Through my decades of engagement with workers’ education, rural banking, and trade union leadership, I’ve witnessed how his unique blend of visionary policymaking and personal commitment has transformed middle-class aspirations into tangible realities.
A Leader Who Understands Middle-Class Struggles
The middle class forms the backbone of India—hardworking, tax-paying, and aspirational. Yet, for years, this segment was neglected, crushed under inflation, unemployment, and policy stagnation. Piyush Goyal, however, emerged as a leader who not only empathizes with these struggles but has actively worked to resolve them.
From his early career as an investment banker to his transformative roles as Union Minister for Railways, Commerce & Industry, and Consumer Affairs, Goyal has consistently pushed policies that benefit the common man. His leadership in implementing the Goods and Services Tax (GST)—despite initial hurdles—simplified taxation, easing the burden on small businesses and middle-class consumers.
My First Encounter with Piyush Goyal’s Extraordinary Work Ethic
I first witnessed Shri Goyal’s exceptional governance style in 2014, when he was the Power Minister. At the time, I did Facebook post for a remote place in Bihar complaining about the unavailability of LED bulbs under the government’s UJALA scheme.
On a whim, I tagged Shri Piyush Goyal in the post, not expecting much. To my astonishment, within 48 hours, the issue was resolved—LED bulbs reached the area, and the local electricity department was instructed to ensure proper implementation.
This incident left a lasting impression on me. Imagine a Union Minister personally ensuring the delivery of LED bulbs in a far-flung village based on a social media complaint! This is the kind of responsive, hands-on leadership that sets Piyush Goyal apart. His ability to penetrate the deepest layers of bureaucracy to deliver results is unmatched.
Piyush Goyal’s Vision for Bihar: From Makhana to Global Markets
As Commerce Minister, Shri Goyal didn’t just implement policies – he reimagined Bihar’s economic potential. His visionary proposal for a National Makhana Board promises to revolutionize the lives of thousands of farmers in the Mithila region, where this ‘aquatic gold’ has been cultivated for generations but never received its due recognition. Through my interactions with smallholder farmers in Darbhanga and Madhubani as part of my rural banking work, I’ve witnessed firsthand how this initiative – once implemented – will transform the entire value chain from pond to global markets. This, combined with his successful push for GI tags for Shahi Litchi and Katarni Rice, has already begun changing Bihar’s agricultural narrative. His special focus on Bihar’s unique products through the ODOP scheme – whether it’s Bhagalpuri silk weavers or Muzaffarpur’s litchi growers – demonstrates an unprecedented understanding of our state’s grassroots economic realities. The proposed Makhana Board stands as testament to his unique ability to identify Bihar’s hidden gems and elevate them to national priority – a quality that makes him not just a minister, but truly a champion of Bihar’s middle-class entrepreneurs and farmers.
Empowering Workers and Entrepreneurs
As a trade union leader, I value leaders who balance economic growth with workers’ welfare. Goyal’s tenure as Railway Minister saw record modernization—new trains, better safety, and improved employee conditions. His push for ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ has generated millions of jobs, giving hope to young professionals and skilled workers.
In rural banking, where I work closely, Goyal’s policies on digital banking, financial inclusion, and MSME growth have been revolutionary. The PM SVANidhi Scheme for street vendors and the PLI (Production Linked Incentive) Scheme have empowered small entrepreneurs, ensuring that the middle class benefits from India’s growth.
A Man of Integrity and Vision
What makes Piyush Goyal extraordinary is his unshakable integrity and clear vision. In a political environment often clouded by corruption and empty rhetoric, Goyal’s transparent, result-driven governance resonates with the middle class. His direct engagement with citizens—whether through social media or public forums—reflects his commitment to accountability.
The Personal Touch That Defines His Leadership
In my three decades of public service, I’ve never encountered a leader who combines large-scale governance with such personal grace. Just last week, I received a letter of appreciation from Shri Goyal himself, acknowledging my work in workers’ education. This wasn’t some generic note but a personalised one.
This extraordinary gesture reveals the essence of Piyush Goyal’s leadership: a rare blend of macro-level vision and micro-level attention. How many Union Ministers today take time to personally thank grassroots workers?
The Future of India’s Middle Class
As India races toward becoming a $5 trillion economy, leaders like Piyush Goyal ensure that growth is inclusive and sustainable. His policies on affordable housing, digital empowerment, and skill development align perfectly with middle-class aspirations.
For someone like me, who has spent years fighting for workers’ rights and rural upliftment, Piyush Goyal is more than a politician—he is a symbol of hope. Hope that the middle class will no longer be sidelined. Hope that India’s progress will be equitable. And hope that honest, efficient leadership can indeed transform lives.
In Piyush Goyal, the aspirational middle class has found its champion. And as India advances, I am confident that under leaders like him, the dreams of millions will become reality.
Jai Hind!
