LOCAL HANDS, GLOBAL IMPACT: HOW SWADESHI REVIVES BHARTIYA LIVELIHOODS

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has been urging the citizens of the country for the past 3-4 months to adopt Swadeshi use ofindigenous products) and self-reliance.

- SHIVPRAKASH

Infact, eversince his government came to power in 2014, he has given the nation the mantra of reducing dependence on foreign goods and embracing self-reliance through initiatives like “Make in India” and “Make for the World.” Continuing this effort, during the COVID-19 pandemic, he also gave the call for “Vocal for Local.” Based on his farsighted vision that the instability in the global economy would also affect Bharat, he once again reiterated before the people ofthe country, his resolve to adopt Swadeshi and Aatmanirbharta (Self-Reliance). Inhis Independence Day address, Mann Ki Baat radio program, and various other events held at different places, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has, in different ways, appealed to the people toembrace Swadeshi.

Across the country, the period of 2-3 months is considered a season of festivals. Festivals such as Ganesh Utsav, Vijayadashami, Deepawali, Chhath Pujaand many other socio-religious celebrationsassociated with them, the beginning of the New Year in some states, and Eid celebrated by the Muslim community—all bring joy and enthusiasm to society. Lighting homes, exchanging greetings and sweets, wearing new clothes, and giving gifts to one another are natural traditions ofsociety.During this period, October2, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, is also celebratedas Khadi Day. ‘Tomake these traditionsand celebrations the foundation of Swadeshi and Aatmanirbharta Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi urged people with the message: