Examine the nature of coalition politics in India since the 1990s.

The nature of coalition politics in India since the 1990s has been marked by a departure from single-party dominance to a scenario where multiple political parties come together to form alliances or coalitions to secure a majority in the parliament. Several factors contribute to the prevalence and dynamics of coalition politics during this period:

1. Fragmentation of Political Landscape:
   The 1990s witnessed a significant fragmentation of the political landscape in India. The decline of the Congress party's dominance created space for regional and smaller parties to emerge. This led to a situation where no single party could easily secure a majority on its own, necessitating alliances.

2. Era of Coalition Governments:
   Starting from the 1996 general elections, coalition governments became a norm rather than an exception at the national level. No single party, including the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress, could secure a clear majority, leading to the formation of governments through post-election alliances.

3. Regional Parties' Influence:
   The rise of regional parties played a crucial role in the dynamics of coalition politics. Many regional parties, representing specific states or communities, became kingmakers, often holding the balance of power in coalition formations. Their support was crucial for the stability of the central government.

4. Issue-Based Alliances:
   Coalition politics in India is often driven by pragmatic considerations rather than ideological alignment. Parties with disparate ideologies come together based on common minimum programs or shared interests to form governments. This flexibility allows for the accommodation of diverse regional and ideological concerns.

5. Instability and Short Tenures:
   Coalition governments in India have often been associated with political instability and shorter tenures. Frequent realignments, internal conflicts, and the need to satisfy the demands of coalition partners can lead to uncertainties in governance and policy continuity.

6. Post-Poll Alliances:
   Post-election alliances, where parties come together after the results are declared, have become a common feature. These alliances are often necessitated by the absence of a pre-poll coalition or when no single party secures a clear majority. The formation of governments in states like Karnataka and Maharashtra exemplifies this trend.

7. Coalition Dharma and Power Sharing:
   The concept of "coalition dharma" has been emphasized, highlighting the need for coalition partners to adhere to a common agenda for governance. Power-sharing arrangements, including the distribution of ministerial portfolios, are crucial for maintaining the stability of coalition governments.

8. Role of Regional Leaders:
   Regional leaders and strong personalities often play a decisive role in coalition politics. Their ability to consolidate regional support and negotiate effectively makes them key players in the formation and sustenance of coalitions.

9. Challenges and Opportunities:
   While coalition politics brings challenges in terms of stability and policy coherence, it also presents opportunities for consensus-based decision-making and accommodation of diverse voices. It reflects the federal and pluralistic character of Indian politics.

In conclusion, the nature of coalition politics in India since the 1990s is characterized by a shift from single-party dominance to the emergence of multi-party alliances. This trend is shaped by the fragmentation of the political landscape, the influence of regional parties, issue-based alliances, and the role of strong regional leaders. While coalition politics has its challenges, it has become an integral part of India's democratic governance, reflecting the diversity and complexity of its political environment.