Mantra of swadeshi to get new energy,” says PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his greetings to the nation on the first day of Shardiya Navratri, emphasizing the renewed importance of the Swadeshi movement. Speaking in a post on X, the Prime Minister said, “This time, this auspicious occasion of Navratri is very special. Along with the GST Savings Festival, the mantra of Swadeshi is going to receive a new energy during this period.”

Linking the festival to the implementation of new GST reforms, Modi urged citizens to prioritize Made-in-India products. He called for every home and shop to become a symbol of Swadeshi, noting that these products represent the hard work and sweat of India’s youth. The Prime Minister described the GST initiative as a “Bachat Utsav” (Savings Festival), highlighting how reduced taxes on homes, vehicles, appliances, and hotel stays would make essential goods more affordable while promoting domestic consumption.

Political critics, however, have questioned the authenticity of Modi’s Swadeshi push. AAP MP Sanjay Singh publicly alleged that Modi uses foreign-made items,including Swiss watches, Italian glasses, American phones, and German cars, while advocating for indigenous products. Singh also criticized the GST, claiming that the tax burden over the past eight years has been significant for ordinary citizens.

While these claims are largely part of political discourse and lack official verification, they highlight the ongoing debate over the consistency of public messaging and personal practices in promoting domestic products.

In summary, PM Modi’s Navratri message ties cultural celebration to economic policy, aiming to inspire citizens to buy Indian-made goods and support domestic industry. Whether this translates into a substantial boost for production depends on supply-side factors, consumer behavior, and long-term government support for local manufacturing.