Prime Minister appealed to people across the country to mark the upcoming festive season by embracing Swadeshi goods and walking the path of Aatmanirbhar (self-reliant) Bharat to realise the vision of Viksit Bharat.

• Vocal for Local is for the nation to be self-sufficient in their production and supply and to utilize self-consumption of commodities created.

Why there is a need for ‘Vocal for Local’ and Aatmanirbhar Bharat for India?

• Economic imperatives: A self-reliant economy can better withstand global disruptions such as the ongoing geopolitical conflicts and trade wars such as the recent imposition of disproportionate tariffs by the US.
• Demographic dividend: Strengthening domestic manufacturing, MSMEs, and agriculture provides large-scale employment opportunities for India’s young population.
• National Security: Enhancing domestic tech capabilities is key to ensure data security and protects against imminent cyber threats.
• Sustainable development: Indigenous capabilities may promote resource efficiency, recycling, and reduced carbon footprint supporting climate commitments.
• Diplomatic: Self-reliance doesn’t mean isolation; it means building strength to compete globally. India can become a reliable supplier of pharma, IT, green energy, and digital solutions.

Conclusion

A self-reliant India is not about isolationism but about building domestic capabilities to ensure economic strength, social inclusivity, technological advancement, and strategic autonomy, while still integrating with the global economy.