Prime Minister Narendra Modi has recently emphasized the critical need for India to reduce its dependence on other countries, identifying this reliance as the nation's "biggest enemy". Speaking at a public event in Bhavnagar, Gujarat, Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for development projects worth ₹34,200 crore, underscoring the importance of self-reliance for India's future and global standing.
Modi articulated that excessive foreign dependence hurts national self-respect and jeopardizes the future of 1.4 billion Indians. He stressed that India cannot leave its development trajectory to the whims of other nations or risk the well-being of future generations. Modi proclaimed that "There is only one medicine for a hundred sorrows, and that is a self-reliant India".
These remarks come at a time when concerns are growing over tariffs and H-1B visa policies, particularly in the United States. Recently, the US imposed a $100,000 fee on H-1B visa applications, a move expected to disproportionately affect Indian tech workers, who constitute a significant percentage of H-1B visa holders. Additionally, there has been no easing of the 50% tariffs imposed by the US on Indian imports. These developments highlight the vulnerabilities associated with relying heavily on other countries and add urgency to India's push for self-sufficiency.
The Prime Minister's focus on self-reliance aligns with the "Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan" (Self-Reliant India Mission), which was launched in May 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This initiative aims to promote domestic manufacturing, enhance economic resilience, and increase India's participation in global supply chains. The five pillars of Atmanirbhar Bharat are economy, infrastructure, technology-driven systems, vibrant demography, and demand.
The Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan is not about isolating India but about building self-confidence and increasing exports and technological expertise. The government has introduced reforms to lower business costs, support industry clusters, improve labor participation and skills, and attract investments.
The government has also launched Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes across 13 sectors to boost domestic manufacturing and attract investment. These schemes provide incentives on incremental sales of goods manufactured in India.
PM Modi's emphasis on self-reliance reflects a broader strategy to insulate India from external shocks and ensure its long-term growth and stability. By reducing dependence on other nations, India aims to safeguard its interests, promote its industries, and secure a brighter future for its citizens.
