Testing times for Modi's fiscal reforms vs BJP's Hindu agenda

Banka, India

INDIAN Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on the campaign trail in a state election that could define the rest of his term, promising jobs and development in one of the country's most backward areas, while his right-wing party pushes a Hindu agenda.

Braving the scorching sun, thousands of men and women clad in bright shirts and saris trudged miles to Mr Modi's campaign rally last week in the state of Bihar. Voting to the legislature there will start on Monday and the result will be out on Nov 8.