Prime Minister Narendra Modi is intensifying his push for the "Make in India" and "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliant India) initiatives, urging widespread participation to propel India towards becoming the world's third-largest economy. This call to action comes amidst global economic uncertainty and rising protectionist measures from other nations.
Speaking at the inauguration of Kartavya Bhavan, the new premises for key ministries, Modi emphasized the importance of strengthening India's capabilities as a shared pursuit and personal mission for all citizens. He highlighted that the policies and decisions formulated in modern complexes like Kartavya Bhavan will shape India's future during the "Amrit Kaal" era.
Modi's focus on domestic production and consumption aligns with the established "Make in India" program, which was launched to facilitate investment, foster innovation, enhance skill development, protect intellectual property, and build best-in-class manufacturing infrastructure. The initiative rests on four pillars: new processes, new infrastructure, new sectors, and a new mindset, all aimed at boosting entrepreneurship and transforming India into a global manufacturing hub.
The Prime Minister's renewed emphasis on "Atmanirbhar Bharat" also seeks to make India a more significant and self-sustaining participant in the global economy. This vision involves pursuing efficient, competitive, and resilient policies that promote self-sufficiency.
Several recent developments reflect the government's commitment to these initiatives. The commissioning of India's first indigenously developed green hydrogen plant at Deendayal Port in Kandla, Gujarat, was hailed by Modi as a significant step towards the nation's clean energy goals and a testament to the "Make in India" initiative. Container Corporation of India Ltd (CONCOR) successfully executed the shipment of AMUL Ghee to Sharjah using its own container fleet, showcasing India's growing capabilities in managing end-to-end logistics solutions and reducing reliance on foreign entities.
However, the path towards self-reliance isn't without its challenges. The United States has shifted its stance towards India, with President Trump now targeting the nation as part of his strategy. Trump's recent criticism specifically addressed India's participation in BRICS and its continued Russian relations, even imposing a 25% duty on Indian exports. Despite these pressures, India has maintained its independent foreign policy and continues to prioritize its economic interests, including the import of Russian oil.
In response to these challenges, Modi has encouraged citizens to prioritize locally made products. Addressing a rally in Uttar Pradesh, he stated that "whatever we buy, there should be only one scale: we will buy those things which have been made by the sweat of an Indian". This sentiment has resonated across political and trade circles, with the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) announcing a national campaign titled "Indian Goods – Our Pride" to promote the sale and consumption of Indian-made products. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has also urged citizens to commit to the nation by choosing products made in India.
By promoting "Make in India" and "Atmanirbhar Bharat," the government aims to create a robust domestic market, generate employment opportunities, and enhance the country's overall economic resilience. While global challenges persist, the focus on self-reliance and indigenous production is expected to play a crucial role in India's journey towards becoming a leading global economy.
