How Modi Captured the Indian Mind and the State
The Use of Fifth-Generation Warfare (5GW) in Politics
Image courtsey: Bhavin Patel
Key References:
Qureshi, W.A., 2019. Fourth-and fifth-generation warfare: Technology and perceptions. San Diego Int'l LJ, 21, p.187.
Qureshi, W.A., 2020. The rise of hybrid warfare. Notre Dame J. Int'l Comp. L., 10, p.173.
Introduction:
In the era of modern technology and instant communication, warfare has transcended traditional battlefields. While 5GW is primarily a military theory, its principles—such as information manipulation, psychological operations, and the use of technology—have increasingly been applied in the realm of politics and governance. Fifth-generation warfare (5GW) is not fought with guns and missiles but with information, narratives, and psychological manipulation. Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India, and his political strategies have often been analysed in the context of modern warfare concepts, including fifth-generation warfare (5GW). Narendra Modi has proven to be a master tactician in this domain, using sophisticated tools to shape public perception, control narratives, and consolidate power while the people and his political opposition took a long time to realise what was going on. While his approach has garnered immense political success, it raises significant concerns about the health of Indian democracy.
Warfare in the past
As described by Dr Waseem Ahmad Qureshi in one of his research papers, the nature of warfare is undergoing significant transformation. Traditional methods of waging war are evolving, with conventional techniques declining and being replaced by newer tactics and tools such as information warfare, asymmetric warfare, media propaganda, and hybrid warfare. These developments are increasingly blurring the distinctions between combatants and non-combatants, as well as between wartime and peacetime.
First-generation warfare, occurring between 1648 and 1860, established the state's monopoly on waging war, a domain previously open to tribes and businesses. This era was characterized primarily by mass manpower.
The second generation of warfare, introduced by the French military and concluding with World War I, saw the advent of artillery, airplanes, and heavy gunfire, while maintaining the established order from the first generation. Soldiers were relieved of direct hand-to-hand combat, and strict adherence to rules took precedence over individual initiative. Firepower became the dominant force during this period.
Third-generation warfare, or manoeuvre warfare, developed by Germany and employed during World War II, introduced tactics emphasizing surprise and the strategy of "bypassing and undermining" the enemy. In this era, self-discipline and individual initiative were valued over strict obedience. Manoeuvre tactics dominated the warfare of this generation.
Fourth-generation warfare (4GW), which gained prominence over the last five to six decades, brought about the most radical changes since the Peace of Westphalia by incorporating non-state actors such as Al Queda, ISIS, Naxalites, the Taliban, into warfare, thereby challenging the state's exclusive right to wage war.
Fifth-generation warfare (5GW) focuses on perceptions and information, representing a moral conflict aimed at distorting public perception to present a manipulated view of the world and politics.
Understanding Fifth-Generation Warfare
Fifth-generation warfare operates in the shadows, focusing on influencing the minds of individuals rather than engaging in direct conflict. It relies heavily on the weaponization of information, propaganda, and technology to manipulate emotions and behaviour. Unlike previous generations of warfare, it is intangible, indirect, and often undetectable, making it a powerful tool for political leaders seeking to consolidate influence.
In the context of Indian politics, Modi's rise has coincided with the rise of 5GW tactics. From expertly managing the media to leveraging cutting-edge technology, his leadership style exemplifies the successful use of these unconventional strategies.
5G warfare encompasses a broad range of strategies and tools that leverage advanced technology and unconventional methods to influence or disrupt opponents without direct physical confrontation. Here are some key components and characteristics of 5G warfare in the context of conflict between nations and groups:
Information Warfare: This involves the use of information and communication technologies to manipulate public opinion, spread propaganda, and control the narrative. Techniques include disinformation campaigns, fake news, and social media manipulation.
Cyber Warfare: Cyberattacks are used to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to computer systems, networks, and infrastructure. This can include hacking, denial-of-service attacks, and malware deployment.
Psychological Operations (PsyOps): These operations aim to influence the emotions, motives, and behaviour of target audiences. They can include the dissemination of misleading information, psychological manipulation, and the use of fear tactics.
Economic Warfare: This strategy involves using economic means to weaken an opponent. Tactics can include sanctions, trade wars, and economic blockades. Example: The use of SWIFT system and sanctions against Russia following its war with Ukraine.
Hybrid Warfare: This blends conventional and unconventional methods, such as combining traditional military force with cyberattacks, information warfare, and economic pressure to achieve strategic goals.
Use of Emerging Technologies: Advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, big data analytics, and the Internet of Things (IoT) play a significant role in 5G warfare. These technologies can enhance the ability to gather intelligence, conduct surveillance, and execute precise operations. Example: Israel’s pager attacks on Hezbollah resistance fighters and the Lebanese citizens during its war with Hamas and the axis of resistance.
Non-State Actors: 5G warfare often involves non-state actors, such as terrorist groups, hacktivists, and private corporations, who can carry out sophisticated attacks independently or in collaboration with state entities. Example: use of Islamic terrorist groups to weaken non-submissive states such as Iran, Syria, Russia etc by the US and the West, using similar Islamic entities to create terror in India by Pakistan and vice versa.
8. Asymmetry: It emphasizes asymmetric tactics where smaller, less powerful entities can effectively challenge larger, more powerful adversaries through innovative and unconventional methods. These tactics include guerrilla warfare, terrorism, and the exploitation of weak points in an adversary's system. Example: Hamas and Hezbollah against Israel. The Taliban against the Soviet and US occupation of Afghanistan.
Overall, 5G warfare represents a shift from the traditional battlefield to more covert, indirect, and multifaceted forms of conflict, where the lines between war and peace, combatants and civilians, and military and non-military domains are increasingly blurred.
The Modi Playbook: Fifth-Generation Warfare in Action
1. Mastering the Media Landscape
One of Modi’s most significant achievements has been his ability to dominate mainstream media and even the alternate media. Since Modi took power in Delhi news channels and print media outlets have been coerced to align with the government’s narrative, portraying Modi as a decisive, nationalist leader who can steer India to greatness. It was even alleged that Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) decides and orders the news outlets what agenda to focus on and what manner of debate should take place on news channels every day. Using this level of control his carefully managed public appearances, such as his speeches at iconic venues or his participation in cultural and religious ceremonies, have reinforced his image as a leader deeply connected to India's Hindu traditions and Hindus’ supremacist aspirations.
Meanwhile, critical voices in the media have been marginalized. Journalists who question government policies often face harassment, threats, job loss or legal action, creating a chilling effect on independent reporting. Those who comply will be compensated generously through government advertisements and those who wouldn’t be punished either by depriving them of revenue or through tax raids, and in some cases through hostile takeover of them through Modi’s cronies such as Gautam Adani or Mukesh Ambani. Here one can recall the takeover of the one last independent media house NDTV which was not ready to toe the Modi line and was taken over by Adani. This control over the media ensures not only that Modi's narrative remains unchallenged in the public eye but also ensures depriving the political opposition and dissenting voices from getting any space.
2. Social Media as a Weapon
In the digital age, social media platforms have become crucial tools for political influence. Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has mastered the use of platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and WhatsApp to reach millions of Indians directly and drown out opposition voices. Through these channels, the government disseminates carefully curated content that appeals to voters’ emotions, whether it is invoking national pride, promoting anti-Muslim propaganda, highlighting government achievements, or attacking political opponents.
The rise of BJP “IT cells” has been particularly noteworthy. These teams are tasked with spreading pro-government messages, amplifying Modi’s policies, and discrediting critics. Fake news and doctored narratives are often circulated to manipulate public opinion, to polarise voters, and to foster an environment of loyalty and unquestioning support. Anyone who opposed the government narrative is branded antinational or Urban Naxals.
3. Psychological and Perception Management
Cult of Personality: Modi's leadership is often portrayed as charismatic and transformative, with a focus on his personal story of rising from humble beginnings to becoming a global leader. This narrative is reinforced through constant media coverage, public events, and social media and by spending enormous amounts of money on advertisements to promote his image as a Vishwaguru (global leader). His obsession with his image is such that on one occasion he even claimed himself to be non-human (non-biological in his own words). There were even occasions when some of his bhakts (devotees) built temples for Modi and some of his own party men spoke of him as an avatar (manifestation) god which he quietly relished.
4. Nationalism and Identity Politics
The BJP has successfully used nationalist rhetoric, such as the promotion of Hindu identity (Hindutva) and national security issues (e.g., the Balakot airstrike, the building and inauguration of Ram Temple at Ayodhya), to evoke emotional responses and consolidate support
Modi’s leadership has harnessed the power of cultural pride and Hindu nationalism to create a deep emotional connection with his voter base. By invoking India’s rich heritage, historical figures, and religious symbols, Modi has constructed a narrative of national renewal that appeals to millions.
Policies like the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir are framed as bold moves to assert India’s sovereignty and identity. While these policies have received widespread support among Modi’s followers, critics argue they have polarized society and marginalized minority communities.
5. Global Perception Management
International Image Building: Modi has actively worked to project India as a global power under his leadership, using platforms like the G20, UN, and bilateral visits to enhance his image as a statesman.
Diaspora Engagement: The BJP has effectively mobilized the Indian diaspora to support its agenda and counter criticism of the government on international platforms.
6. Managing Crises and Controlling Narratives
Modi’s ability to manage public perception during crises is another hallmark of his 5GW strategy. Whether it was the abrupt demonetization policy in 2016, the introduction of Goods and Services Tax (GST), the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, or the economic challenges faced by the country, the government has often redirected public attention by emphasizing external threats, blaming past governments, or highlighting unrelated achievements.
This narrative control ensures that Modi’s leadership remains unblemished in the eyes of his supporters, even when faced with significant challenges. Thus, the clear failure of the demonetisation, the introduction of GST, the nearly 50 million covid deaths, unprecedented unemployment and rising poverty have all been deflected through focussing on Muslims and manufacturing psyops.
7. The Role of Technology and Data
Under Modi’s leadership, technology has been harnessed not just for governance but also for voter outreach and influence. Data analytics, artificial intelligence, and digital platforms are used to study voter behaviour, predict trends, and create targeted campaigns. Recent allegations, after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and the subsequent state elections, especially Haryana and Maharashtra, of the use of technology and data to delete opposition supporters’ names from the voter list and to add substantial number of fake voters to the electoral roll have created suspicions about Modi’s intentions about Indian democracy itself.
Digital initiatives like Aadhaar and the Digital India program have enabled the government to connect with citizens directly. While these programs have many benefits, their integration with political strategies raises questions about the misuse of personal data for electoral gains.
Critics argue that the government has used technology to monitor dissent, control information flows, and suppress opposition voices, particularly through internet shutdowns and surveillance tools such as Pegasus and other surveillance software.
8. Hybrid Tactics in Politics
Combining Traditional and Modern Methods: The BJP combines traditional grassroots campaigning (e.g., rallies, door-to-door outreach) with modern digital strategies (e.g., targeted ads, data analytics) to maximize its reach and influence.
Use of Proxy Actors: The BJP is often accused of using affiliated organizations (e.g., RSS, Bajrang Dal) to advance its agenda indirectly, particularly in cultural and religious domains.
Intimidation and blackmail: Intimidation and blackmail tactics have been used against individuals, groups, communities, businesses, non-governmental organizations, media, the opposition party leaders and even conducting intelligence operations and alleged murders across the globe. There are strong allegations that Modi used law enforcement agencies to intimidate and blackmail organisations and individuals to collect huge funds for the party under the Electoral Bonds scheme. Intimidation and blackmail were also allegedly used to help Adani takeover rival businesses. There were also intimidation, blackmail and bribes offered to break the Opposition Parties and the governments that they ran. The case of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka where these tactics were used to force opposition lawmakers to resign and join the BJP to form its government in these states.
9. Economic and asymmetric war on the Opposition
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has strategically leveraged economic warfare and asymmetry to gain a competitive edge in Indian elections. His approach combines state resources, financial regulations, and policy manoeuvres to create an uneven playing field, favouring his party, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), over its political rivals.
One of Modi's most notable tactics was demonetization in 2016. While officially aimed at curbing black money and corruption, the move disproportionately affected opposition parties, many of whom relied on cash-based funding. The sudden withdrawal of high-value currency notes disrupted their financial networks while the BJP, reportedly forewarned, adapted quickly. This economic disruption weakened opposition campaigns in subsequent elections.
Another key tool has been the Electoral Bonds scheme, introduced in 2018. These anonymous political donations overwhelmingly benefited the BJP, allowing it to outspend rivals in elections. With corporate donors channelling vast sums through these bonds, Modi’s party gained a significant financial advantage, enabling high-tech campaigns, mass outreach, and social media dominance.
Asymmetry in economic policy has also played a role. Welfare programs such as free food grains, cash transfers, and subsidized housing have secured voter support and reduced the opposition's policy options.
Modi’s government has also used state institutions—such as tax agencies and investigative bodies—to target opposition leaders and their funding sources, creating an atmosphere of financial insecurity among rivals. Through these strategies, Modi has effectively used economic warfare to consolidate power and dominate India’s electoral landscape.
10. Impact on Indian Democracy
While Modi’s use of 5GW tactics has solidified his political position, it has also had far-reaching consequences for Indian democracy:
Polarization and Division: The weaponization of narratives has deepened societal divides, fostering mistrust among communities.
Weakening of Opposition: Dissenting voices, whether political parties or activists, are often labeled as “anti-national,” stifling constructive criticism.
Erosion of Democratic Institutions: Institutions like the judiciary, Election Commission, and media have faced increasing scrutiny for perceived bias or influence under the Modi government.
Lessons for the Future
India’s experience with fifth-generation warfare under Modi’s leadership offers important lessons:
Media Literacy: Citizens must be educated to recognize propaganda, misinformation, and emotional manipulation.
Strong Institutions: Independent institutions must act as safeguards against overreach, ensuring checks and balances in governance.
Accountability: Leaders must be held accountable for their actions through free press, active civil society, and informed voters.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Modi’s use of fifth-generation warfare techniques has redefined Indian politics. By mastering the art of narrative control, emotional manipulation, and technological influence, he has secured his position as a dominant, authoritarian political figure. However, these tactics also pose significant challenges to the principles of democracy, pluralism, and transparency.
As India moves forward, it is imperative to reflect on the long-term consequences of such strategies. Will they strengthen the nation’s global standing, or will they erode the democratic values that form the foundation of the Republic? Signs of India falling in its global standing are very evident as a recent report from Forbes magazine does not include India among the top ten influential countries in the world. While the democratic institutions are systematically destroyed and elections are allegedly won through fraudulent methods Modi, with his authoritarianism, is proving to be a dangerous person for Indian democracy.