‘Vocal for local’: PM Modi renews call for swadeshi push amid global instability

This was the Prime Minister’s 51st visit to Varanasi since assuming office in 2014.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday renewed his call for economic nationalism, urging citizens to adopt the 'vocal for local' mantra and commit to buying swadeshi (indigenous) products.

Speaking at a rally in his Lok Sabha constituency, Varanasi, he appealed to all political parties to set aside differences and collectively resolve to promote Indian-made goods, especially in light of rising global uncertainty and economic pressures.

“Those who want the best for the country and want to see India as the third biggest economy in the world, be it any political party, should leave their differences aside and instill a resolution for 'swadeshi' products,” he noted.

Further stressing the importance of self-reliance amid rising global uncertainties, PM Modi stated, "There is an atmosphere of global instability. All countries are focusing on their individual interests. India is going to become the third biggest economy in the world, and that is why India will have to stay alert as far as its economic interests are concerned".

With the U.S. recently imposing a 25 percent tariff on Indian goods and hinting at further penalties over India's ties with Russia, the Prime Minister’s remarks also signal a strategic pivot toward strengthening domestic production and economic resilience.

He underlined the government’s commitment to farmers, small-scale industries, and youth employment, adding, “Our farmers, our small-scale industries, the employment for youth... their interest is our top priority.”

Earlier in the day, PM Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated development projects worth around Rs 2,200 crore, including road widening works, a railway overbridge at Hardattpur, and rural-urban infrastructure upgrades. He also reviewed flood preparedness and relief measures in Varanasi, directing officials to ensure displaced families receive full support.

This was the Prime Minister’s 51st visit to Varanasi since assuming office in 2014.