The prime minister cautioned that relying on other nations poses a threat to the national economy.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that the nation’s true adversary is not another country but rather its reliance on foreign powers.
Speaking at an event in Gujarat, where he inaugurated maritime projects valued at over $40 billion, Modi affirmed that India is “advancing with the spirit of being a global friend” and has no major opponents.
“Truly, if we have any enemy, it is the dependence on other countries,” he added.
Modi stressed that India must achieve self-reliance to secure prosperity and ensure “peace and stability.” He advocated for boosting domestic production and reducing external reliance.
“As long as we remain beholden to others, our self-respect will also suffer… We cannot jeopardize our future generations by depending on others,” he remarked.
Highlighting the maritime sector, Modi urged a resurgence of domestic shipbuilding and high-tech industries. He noted that five decades ago, 40% of India’s trade was transported on Indian ships, compared with just 5% today. The billions of dollars annually paid to foreign shipping companies now rival the country’s defense budget, he stated, adding that this dependence has already inflicted significant harm.
“Whether chips or ships, we need to produce them in India,” he declared.
Modi’s statements come amidst rising trade tensions with the US. Last month, Washington imposed a 25% tariff on most Indian imports over Russian oil purchases, in addition to duties introduced after trade discussions collapsed in August. The White House also announced a new $100,000 annual fee on H-1B visa applications, a move that industry group Nasscom said would specifically target skilled Indian workers.