Modi: Swadesi is about production in India

PM FLAGS OFF MARUTI'S FIRST BATTERY EV

- DEEPAK PATEL

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said investment might come from anywhere in the world, but if production took place in India, it was ultimately swadesi. Speaking at Maruti Suzuki's Hansalpur plant in Ahmedabad, where he flagged off the company's first global strategic battery electric vehicle (BEV)—the e-Vitara—Modi underlined self-reliance, manufacturing strength, and reforms aimed at making India a hub for emerging industries.

The statement comes even as Chinese firms have faced investment curbs in the country since the 2020 Galwan clashes, with tighter foreign direct investment (FDI) rules slowing approvals and new proposals. Some recent developments, however—including US President Donald Trump's tariffs on India and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi's visit to New Delhi—suggest a tentative reset, as the two neighbours explore limited cooperation while keeping sensitivities in mind.

The made-in-India e-Vitara will be exported to more than 100 countries, including advanced markets like Japan and Europe. Local sales in India by Maruti will begin later.