Prime Minister Narendra Modi Makes Big ’Swadeshi’ Pitch Amid Tariff Tests

Mangalore Today News Network

Varanasi, Aug 3, 2025: Days after former US President Donald Trump announced a steep 25% tariff and an additional penalty on Indian exports due to energy imports from Russia, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a strong push for ‘swadeshi’ (indigenous) products, calling for national unity in strengthening India’s economic self-reliance.

Addressing a rally in his parliamentary constituency Varanasi on Saturday, the Prime Minister said the global economy was passing through an uncertain phase, and it was crucial for India to prioritise its economic interests.

"Today, there is uncertainty in the global economy. Every country is prioritising its own interests. India, too, is poised to become the third-largest economy in the world, and we must remain vigilant about our economic priorities," Modi said, urging citizens to adopt the ‘vocal for local’ mantra and support domestically produced goods.

Calling it a collective responsibility, he said, “This is not just about Modi – every citizen, political party, and leader who dreams of seeing India as the third-largest economy must promote ‘swadeshi’. Whenever we purchase something, we must ask: was it made by the people of India, with their skill and sweat?”

Modi also made a direct appeal to businesses and shopkeepers to promote and sell locally made products in light of the global economic turbulence. “This will be a true service to the nation and a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. The spirit of ‘swadeshi’ in every action will shape India’s future,” he said.

The government is currently assessing the impact of the tariff move announced by Trump, who also controversially referred to India and Russia as "dead economies". India has strongly reacted to the development.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, speaking in Parliament on Thursday, confirmed that the government is examining the implications of the US move and is in talks with stakeholders. He also stated that negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement are ongoing.

“The government is committed to protecting the interests of our farmers, workers, entrepreneurs, MSMEs, exporters, and all segments of the industry. All necessary steps will be taken to safeguard and advance India’s national interest,” Goyal said.

The sharp tariff escalation by the US has cast a shadow over India’s export sector, prompting renewed emphasis on economic self-reliance and domestic production as key strategic responses.