Reimagining Self-Reliance

Rising global protectionism and US trade barriers highlight why India must embrace a modern Swadeshi— anchored in innovation, self-reliance, and domestic strength—to secure long-term economic resilience

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Today, Swadeshi means strengthening domestic industries, generating youth employment, and ensuring India's future is shaped at home, not abroad

The word Swadeshi recalls India’s independence struggle, when leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Mahatma Gandhi urged boycotts of foreign goods and promotion of indigenous industries. More than a slogan, it was an economic philosophy rooted in self-reliance, dignity of labour, and community empowerment. Today, amid global protectionism, tariff wars, and US measures like higher tariffs and H-1B visa fees, Swadeshi regains relevance. Its modern form—’Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’—carries the same essence: reducing dependence on external markets and building a resilient domestic economy to withstand global shocks.

Changing global trade landscape

The US, once a staunch advocate of globalisation, is now increasingly adopting protectionist measures. The recent hike in tariffs on select imports and the steep increase in H-1B visa fees ordered by US President Donald Trump on September 20 represent a clear signal: countries are prioritising domestic interests over global commitments. For India, these developments carry both challenges and opportunities.

‘Tariff hikes make it more expensive for Indian exporters—particularly in sectors like steel, textiles, and pharmaceuticals— to access the American market. This could directly affect foreign exchange earnings and job creation in India.

H-1B visa fee hikes of over $100,000 annually put an additional burden on Indian IT companies, which rely heavily on sending skilled professionals to the US. With costs going up, competitiveness comes down, and opportunities for young Indian engineers shrink.

Both steps taken by the US highlight the vulnerability of India’s economic dependence on foreign markets and immigration-driven employment opportunities.

Why Swadeshi matters today