The Swadeshi Jagran Manch (SJM), an economic wing of the RSS, is urging Indian citizens to prioritize domestic education and avoid the "temptation" of studying abroad, particularly in light of increasing trade tensions with the United States. This call is rooted in the organization's broader campaign promoting self-reliance ('Swavalamban') and the use of indigenous products ('Swadeshi').
The SJM's stance comes amidst rising concerns over protectionist measures, with the US imposing what it deems "unethical and unreasonable" tariffs on Indian goods. These tariffs are seen as part of a larger trend of weaponizing global value chains, payment systems, and currencies, prompting the SJM to advocate for strengthening India's domestic capabilities and reducing dependence on foreign economies.
By discouraging students from pursuing education overseas, the SJM aims to retain talent and resources within the country, fostering a stronger national intellectual and economic base. This aligns with the Prime Minister's call for "Swadeshi" and the vision of making India great again through self-reliance. The organization believes that buying and selling Swadeshi products is a service to the nation.
The SJM's campaign includes a nationwide movement to encourage the use of indigenous products and boycott foreign goods. This initiative, named 'Swadeshi, Suraksha and Swavalamban Abhiyaan', involves protests and awareness campaigns across numerous districts, echoing the spirit of the Quit India movement. The goal is to inspire a mass movement that champions domestically produced goods and reduces reliance on imports.
The organization has also voiced concerns about the impact of digital monopolies like Amazon and Walmart, accusing them of undermining Indian retail trade and flouting rules to favor their monopolistic ambitions. The SJM is calling on the government to regulate e-commerce giants and prevent them from indulging in predatory pricing.
Furthermore, the SJM has been critical of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) that could compromise India's interests, particularly in sectors like agriculture and small-scale industries. It has urged the government to protect farmers, promote food security and data localization, and prioritize long-term economic self-reliance. The SJM has also advocated for diversifying trade partnerships, focusing on countries in Latin America, Africa, the BRICS alliance, and the Global South.
In addition to trade and economic issues, the SJM has also weighed in on matters related to healthcare and pharmaceuticals. It has urged the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) to ensure the production of high-quality and cost-effective biosimilars in India, safeguarding the domestic industry from international pressures that favor multinational companies.
The SJM's broader message is one of economic patriotism and techno-nationalism, urging India to pursue policies that prioritize national interests and reduce dependence on foreign powers. By promoting domestic education, indigenous products, and self-reliance, the organization aims to build a stronger and more resilient India in an increasingly uncertain global landscape.
