The post-liberalization era in India, beginning in the early 1990s, has indeed witnessed a discernible shift in political discourse and voter expectations, moving from what is often termed 'ascriptive politics' towards 'developmental politics.' Ascriptive politics traditionally refers to political mobilization based on pre-existing social identities such as caste, religion, ethnicity, or regional loyalties. While these identities remain significant, their salience as the sole determinant of political outcomes has been challenged.

Economic liberalization opened up new opportunities and aspirations, particularly among the burgeoning middle class and upwardly mobile sections of society. Voters increasingly began to demand tangible improvements in their quality of life, such as better infrastructure, education, healthcare, employment opportunities, and efficient governance. This shift has compelled political parties to recalibrate their strategies, moving beyond mere identity-based appeals to articulate a vision for economic growth and social development. Parties that successfully project an image of being pro-development and capable of delivering 'good governance' have often gained electoral advantage.

Examples of this shift include the focus on 'vikas' (development) in election campaigns, the emphasis on specific welfare schemes, infrastructure projects, and economic policies. State governments, in particular, have been increasingly judged on their performance in attracting investment, improving public services, and fostering economic growth. While caste and religious identities still play a role, especially at the local level, they are often intertwined with developmental promises. For instance, a caste group might support a party not just for identity reasons, but also because that party promises specific developmental benefits for their community. This evolution suggests a more mature electorate that holds its leaders accountable for performance and delivery, pushing Indian politics towards a more outcome-oriented and developmental agenda, even as identity politics continues to adapt and persist in various forms.