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PM Modi Urges Spending Discipline, Says 'Gold Not Necessary Now'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed for greater self-reliance and financial discipline during his address in Vadodara. He urged citizens to support domestic products and make 'Vocal for Local' a mass movement. Modi advised restraint in non-essential purchases, including gold, saying "Gold is not necessary at this time." He also encouraged domestic tourism, weddings in India, and reduced fuel consumption to strengthen the national economy.

Key Points: PM Modi: 'Gold Not Necessary This Time', Urges Spending Discipline

  • PM urges reduced gold imports and spending discipline
  • Citizens asked to support domestic products via 'Vocal for Local'
  • Encourages domestic tourism and weddings in India
  • Calls for moderation in fuel, edible oil, and foreign travel
2 min read

'Gold not necessary this time': PM Modi urges spending discipline

PM Modi appeals for self-reliance, reduced gold imports, and domestic tourism. He urges citizens to make 'Vocal for Local' a mass movement.

"Today's need is to make 'Vocal for Local' a mass movement. - PM Narendra Modi"

Vadodara, May 11

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday appealed for greater self-reliance in consumption habits and financial discipline, including reduced dependence on imported goods, gold purchases, and fuel consumption, during his address in Vadodara.​

He urged citizens to support domestic products and strengthen local industries, stating: "Today's need is to make 'Vocal for Local' a mass movement."​

He said increased use of foreign goods places pressure on India's foreign exchange reserves.​

On gold imports, he said a large amount of national resources is spent on the metal.​

He appealed for restraint in non-essential purchases, stating, "Gold is not necessary at this time," and suggested postponing such expenditure until global conditions stabilise.​

He also mentioned edible oil consumption, urging moderation due to its impact on both health and imports.​

He said reducing consumption could benefit both individuals and the national economy. On fuel usage, he reiterated his appeal to reduce dependency on petrol and diesel.​

He encouraged citizens to use public transport, electric vehicles, and shared mobility options. He also suggested carpooling as a practical step for households with multiple vehicles.​

The Prime Minister further spoke about overseas travel and destination weddings, saying, "Such practices lead to significant foreign exchange outflow. People must consider India for weddings and holidays."​

He stated that India has many culturally significant and scenic locations suitable for such events, adding that domestic tourism should be prioritised.​

Referring to the Statue of Unity, he said that India offers world-class destinations within the country.​

"There can be no better place than India for weddings. I would urge all of you to get married at the Statue of Unity. Sardar Patel will also bless you," he said, encouraging citizens to celebrate major life events domestically.​

He also urged farmers to adopt natural farming practices and reduce chemical fertiliser use, stating that "soil protection and sustainability are essential for long-term agricultural health".​

- IANS

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Reader Comments

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James A
As someone who moved to India for work, I think this is a genuinely smart economic strategy. In the US, there's a similar push for "Buy American." The difference here is that Indians are deeply sentimental about gold and destination weddings. PM Modi is right about domestic tourism though - I took my family to Kerala last year and it was incredible! 🇮🇳
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Priya S
I agree with the sentiment, but this feels a bit tone-deaf. My family's been saving for my wedding for years - gold is part of our tradition, not just an expense. And suggesting wedding at Statue of Unity? 😂 That's going to cost more than a small village wedding! The fuel and edible oil points are practical though, I've started carpooling with neighbors.
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Michael C
Interesting to see this approach from an Indian leader. In Australia, we have similar campaigns for local produce. The emphasis on natural farming is particularly important - we've seen positive results with organic farming back home. Though I wonder how practical it is for small farmers who depend on chemical fertilizers for higher yields. 🤔
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Rajesh Q
Gold not necessary? Sir, please understand - for many of us, gold is our only savings and security! We buy it not just for marriage but as investment. But I appreciate the "Vocal for Local" push. I've been buying more from local artisans recently. And yes, we should think before spending on foreign trips - Hum Bharat ke hi tourist spots ghumenge! 🌍
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Sarah B
Coming from Canada, I find it interesting how personal consumption choices are linked to national pride

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