Brief by Shorts91 NewsDesk / 10:24am on 17 Aug 2025,Sunday India Global
In a modern echo of Mahatma Gandhi's Swadeshi movement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "Vocal for Local" campaign is being presented as India's answer to global trade challenges. The initiative, along with "Make in India" and "Atmanirbhar Bharat," aims to strengthen the domestic economy by encouraging citizens to prioritize indigenous products. This strategy is designed to boost local consumption, support artisans and small businesses, and reduce import dependence. Speaking at an inauguration event in Delhi, PM Modi said, “Have faith in Indian goods. If you are Indian, buy only goods made in India. You should decide to choose only those items that are made in India, by Indians." Though Modi’s pitch for ‘Vocal for Local’ comes after US President Donald Trump has announced tariffs totalling to 50% on India. These include an additional 25% duty on Indian purchases of Russian oil, set to come into effect from 27 August. India has criticised the move, calling it “unjustified and unreasonable". (PC: India Today & The Economic Times)
