President Murmu Urges 'Buy Local' Amid Tariff Woes

In her address on the eve of India’s 79th Independence Day on August 14, 2025, President Droupadi Murmu called for a renewed commitment to buying local products, linking the modern “Make in India” and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives to the Swadeshi movement championed by Mahatma Gandhi.

Speaking against the backdrop of escalating US tariffs, which have imposed a 50% duty on Indian goods effective August 27, President Murmu emphasized the importance of self-reliance to protect artisans in industries like jewelry, handicrafts, and textiles, which face significant challenges due to the tariffs. “Let us resolve to buy and use Indian products,” she urged, noting the celebration of National Handloom Day on August 7, which honors the legacy of Indian weavers and the Swadeshi movement launched in 1905.

President Murmu also highlighted the need to improve the “ease of doing business” alongside the “ease of living” to uplift the common citizen. “We are increasing our self-reliance in every area possible, adding to our self-confidence and momentum toward Viksit Bharat,” she said, echoing calls from industrialists like Anand Mahindra for radical reforms to make India a top investment destination amid global trade tensions.

The President’s remarks align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent push for “Vocal for Local,” where he urged citizens to prioritize indigenous goods to bolster India’s ambition to become the world’s third largest economy. Traders’ groups have pledged support for this Swadeshi revival to strengthen economic resilience.

The President praised Operation Sindoor as a testament to India’s self-reliance in defense, calling it a “landmark achievement” in indigenous manufacturing. “The outcome proves we are on the right path, achieving critical self-sufficiency in meeting security needs,” she stated, underscoring the operation’s success in dismantling terrorist infrastructure without crossing borders, as noted by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

This focus on homegrown technology reflects India’s broader strategy to counter external pressures, including US tariffs impacting 55% of its merchandise exports, while fostering economic growth, with July 2025 exports rising 7.29% to $37.24 billion.

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