As the deadline for US President Donald Trump’s additional 25% tariff on India approaches, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sent a strong self-reliance message. Speaking at an event in Ahmedabad on August 25, PM Modi urged businessmen to proudly put up big boards outside their shops, declaring they sell ‘swadeshi’ goods.
He asked citizens to adopt the habit of buying only Indian-made products during the upcoming festive season, including Navratri, Vijayadashami, Dhanteras, and Diwali. “For Modi, the interests of farmers, cattle rearers, and small-scale industries are paramount. The pressure on us may increase, but we will bear it all,” he said.
US Tariff Threat Over India-Russia Oil Trade
The tariff dispute between India and the US has escalated after Trump imposed a 25% tariff on India in July and announced another 25% tariff on India’s oil trade with Russia. He warned that other nations could face similar penalties.
Earlier, the US had paused tariffs in April and given countries 90 days to strike a trade deal. With no agreement reached, India is now facing back-to-back tariff hikes.
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India has described the move as “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.” The Ministry of External Affairs stated that India will continue to make trade decisions based on “its national interests.”
Modi Stands Firm With Farmers
PM Modi has repeatedly stressed that his government will never compromise on the interests of farmers, fishermen, and small businesses. On August 7, at the MS Swaminathan Centenary International Conference, he said, “For us, the interest of our farmers is our top priority. India will never compromise on the interests of farmers, fishermen, and dairy farmers. I know personally, I will have to pay a heavy price for it, but I am ready for it.”
He made a similar promise during his Independence Day speech on August 15, saying, “Modi will stand like a wall against any move that harms them.”
Self-Reliance: The Answer to Trade Pressures
PM Modi linked India’s economic strength to producing high-quality and affordable goods. He urged industries to follow the principle of “Daam kam, dum zyaada” (lower cost, higher value). He also invoked Lord Krishna, calling India a “chakradhari” symbolising protection and strength.
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