India (Commonwealth Union)_ With economic tensions growing between India and the United States, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reiterated his call for citizens to support domestically made products and reduce reliance on foreign brands. Speaking to the nation, just ahead of major tax reforms set to take effect, Modi emphasized the importance of building a self-reliant economy through the promotion of “Swadeshi,” the use of goods made in India.
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The timing of his address is notable. It comes just after the US, led by President Donald Trump, enforced a 50% tariff on many Indian exports, exacerbating bilateral trade tensions. Although Modi did not mention the US directly, his remarks pointedly addressed the growing presence of foreign goods in the Indian market. “A lot of the products we use every day are made outside India — often without us even realizing it,” Modi said. “It’s time we change that. We should buy what’s made in India and take pride in it.”
A shift towards economic self-reliance
India, with a population of more than 1.4 billion, remains one of the world’s largest consumer markets. American corporations such as Amazon, Apple, McDonald’s, and PepsiCo have a significant presence in the country. In recent weeks, some groups supportive of Modi’s economic program have launched campaigns asking residents to boycott international companies in favor of domestic alternatives. Modi’s message is part of a bigger campaign for “Atmanirbhar Bharat,” or a self-sufficient India, which he has promoted since 2020. His address reiterated that vision, urging citizens to support Indian businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), which he described as the backbone of the economy.
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GST reforms roll out
The prime minister also highlighted the latest Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms, calling them a “next-generation reform” designed to simplify India’s tax structure and spur economic growth. Under the new system, which took effect on Monday, there will be only two main tax slabs: 5% and 18%. According to the government, 99% of consumer goods will fall under the lower 5% bracket, a move aimed at reducing prices, boosting savings, and increasing consumer spending.
“These reforms will bring relief to the middle class, the youth, and to families across the country,” Modi said. “It will lower the cost of living and make life easier for everyone — from homemakers to small business owners.” He stressed that the new system reflects the vision of “One Nation, One Tax,” and is expected to make doing business in India more straightforward and investment more attractive.
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Festival season with a ‘Swadeshi’ spirit
With Navratri and other major festivals like Diwali approaching, Modi encouraged citizens to choose Indian-made goods for gifts, clothing, and home decorations. “Our festivals are a time of joy and togetherness. Let’s make them a celebration of Indian craftsmanship too,” he said. “When we wear clothes woven in India, give gifts made in India, and decorate our homes with Indian-made items, we are not just celebrating tradition — we are supporting our economy,” he added.
Vision for a self-reliant India by 2047
Modi concluded his address by tying the push for local products to his long-term goal of making India a developed and self-reliant nation by 2047, the centenary of India’s independence. He urged every citizen to take part in that mission by making mindful choices in daily life. “Let us take pride in our products, our skills, and our industries,” he said. “By choosing Made in India, we are choosing a stronger future for our country.”
