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Key Points

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat delivered a significant address on the importance of Swadeshi and self-reliance for India's future. He clarified that being self-reliant doesn't mean stopping imports but engaging with the world without external pressure. His remarks came on the same day US President Trump's steep tariffs on Indian goods took effect. Bhagwat also emphasized India's traditional values of restraint, inclusivity, and the concept of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.

Key Points: Mohan Bhagwat Swadeshi Aatmanirbharta Key to Self-Reliant India

  • Bhagwat calls for an economy engaging with the world on India's own terms
  • Stresses Swadeshi is about voluntary global engagement, not isolation
  • Links remarks to current global challenges like US tariffs on Indian goods
  • Emphasizes diversity and ideologies must not become causes of division
2 min read

Mohan Bhagwat stresses 'Swadeshi' as key to self-reliant India amid global pressures

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat emphasizes Swadeshi and self-reliance as central to India's global strength, advocating for voluntary engagement over external pressure.

"Swadeshi means not importing goods we already have or can easily manufacture. Bringing outside goods hurts local vendors. - Mohan Bhagwat"

New Delhi, Aug 27

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Wednesday underscored the importance of Swadeshi and Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance), calling them central to India’s future strength.

Speaking at the RSS centenary lecture series – '100 Years of Sangh’s Journey: New Horizons' at Vigyan Bhavan, Delhi, he said India must build an economy that engages with the world on its own terms, free from external pressure.

“Aatmanirbharata or Swadeshi is important. Being self-reliant does not mean stopping imports. The world moves because it is interdependent. Export-import will continue, but there should be no pressure on it. Swadeshi means not importing goods we already have or can easily manufacture. Bringing outside goods hurts local vendors,” Bhagwat said.

His remarks came on the same day US President Donald Trump’s steep 50 per cent tariffs on Indian goods took effect. Linking his call to current global challenges, Bhagwat stressed that “true Swadeshi” is about voluntary global engagement, not compulsion. The RSS chief also reflected on India’s ethos of restraint and inclusivity.

“Bharat has always exercised restraint, overlooking its own losses. Even when harmed, it has offered help, even to those who caused harm. Individual ego creates enmity, but beyond that ego lies Hindustan,” he said.

Bhagwat highlighted that diversity and different ideologies must not become causes of division.

“After seeing someone, if their caste comes to our mind, this is problematic, and this will have to go. Water, crematorium, and temple are for everyone. There should be no discrimination among them,” he noted.

Emphasising Hindu thought rooted in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (world is one family), Bhagwat said the Sangh seeks no credit for its work but wants Indian society to take the country to a level that can influence global change.

He also praised the role of RSS shakhas abroad in shaping three generations of Hindus through discipline, family values, and community service.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
His point about discrimination is important. We can't talk about self-reliance while still practicing caste discrimination in our society. True progress means progress for all Indians.
A
Aman W
Good timing with Trump's tariffs. Shows why we need to be self-reliant. Other countries will always put their interests first - we should do the same. Make in India should be our priority.
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Sarah B
While I appreciate the sentiment, we need practical policies to support local manufacturers. Just saying "buy Indian" isn't enough - we need better infrastructure, easier loans, and less bureaucracy for small businesses.
Vikram M
Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam is such a beautiful concept. If we can balance self-reliance with this universal outlook, India can truly lead the world. Our ancient wisdom has answers to modern problems.
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Nikhil C
Hope this translates into actual support for local artisans and small businesses. Too often they struggle while big corporations get all the benefits. Real swadeshi means empowering every Indian entrepreneur.

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