‘Dependence Mustn’t Turn Into Compulsion’: RSS Chief’s Swadeshi Call Amid US Tariffs
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat on Thursday delivered a strong message on self-reliance, urging the nation to embrace ‘swadeshi’ (indigenous goods) in the face of global economic pressures, including the ongoing tariff war initiated by US President Donald Trump on Indian goods. Speaking at the annual Vijayadashami Utsav from the RSS headquarters in Nagpur, Bhagwat asserted that while interdependence is a reality of the modern world, it should not transform into a compulsion that compromises India’s autonomy.
In his closely-watched address, the RSS Sarsanghchalak stated that becoming ‘aatmanirbhar’ (self-reliant) is the only way for India to “act according to our own will.” He emphasized that there is “no substitute for swadeshi and swavalamban” and that India’s harmony must be its own. “The world functions on interdependence.
No nation can live in isolation. This interdependence should not be turned into compulsion,” he said, making a clear case for strengthening domestic production and reducing over-reliance on foreign trade partners.The address followed the traditional ‘Shastra Puja’ (worship of weapons), a key ritual of the Vijayadashami celebrations for the RSS.
In a notable display blending tradition with modernity, replicas of advanced Indian weaponry, including the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher systems and drones, were part of the puja alongside traditional arms. The event was attended by several high-profile dignitaries, including former President Ram Nath Kovind, who was the chief guest, as well as Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
