The 156th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi was marked with solemn tributes and renewed pledges to live by his ideals of truth, non-violence and selfless service. On this occasion, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha rightly reminded citizens of the importance of Swadeshi, which stands out as not only a moral principle but also an economic necessity in today’s testing times. The Swadeshi mantra is not new to India. During the freedom struggle, it was this very call-“boycott foreign goods and promote indigenous products”-that shook the foundations of British rule. Gandhi understood that political freedom could not be sustained without economic self-reliance. Khadi became the fabric of resistance, but beyond symbolism, it was an instrument of empowerment for millions. That lesson is as relevant in the 21st century as it was in the early 20th.
Today, India is confronted with complex economic challenges-global volatility, job creation needs, rural distress, and competition from cheap imports. In such a scenario, “Make in India and consume in India” is not just a slogan; it is a survival strategy. Every rupee spent on an indigenous product strengthens the ecosystem of self-help groups, MSMEs and small-scale industries. These are not fringe contributors; they form the backbone of India’s economy, employing crores and driving inclusive growth. By prioritising Swadeshi consumption, we ensure that the money circulates within our economy, empowering artisans, farmers, women entrepreneurs, and local manufacturers. It provides a multiplier effect-boosting demand, generating employment, and enhancing self-confidence in our economic systems. On the contrary, an overdependence on imported goods drains resources, weakens local industries and strengthens foreign economies at our expense.
The Government has already taken significant steps-from promoting Vocal for Local to incentivising MSMEs and rural enterprises. But real transformation requires people’s participation. Citizens must consciously prefer indigenous products, even when imported alternatives seem more attractive. As Gandhiji taught, consumption itself can become a form of constructive nationalism. Swadeshi is not a matter of charity but of enlightened self-interest. The path shown by Bapu continues to be the most practical roadmap: an economy rooted in self-reliance, equity, and moral force. Swadeshi was a game-changer once. It can be the game-changer again.
The post Adopt Make in India appeared first on Daily Excelsior.