Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a resolute message in Ahmedabad, vowing to shield India’s farmers, cattle-rearers, and small entrepreneurs from the economic fallout of impending 50% U.S. tariffs on Indian goods, set to take effect on August 27. Speaking at a massive rally in the Nikol area after a 2-km roadshow, Modi emphasized that India would not bow to global economic pressures, invoking the spirit of Mahatma Gandhi’s “swadeshi” movement to promote self-reliance. “No matter how much pressure comes, we will bear it. Your interests will never be harmed,” he declared, addressing small businesses and farmers.

Modi’s remarks come amid escalating tensions with the U.S., following President Donald Trump’s imposition of an additional 25% tariff on Indian exports, citing India’s purchase of Russian oil, on top of an existing 25% duty. The Prime Minister accused the Congress party, which governed India for decades, of fostering dependency through “import scams” and neglecting Gandhi’s principles of self-reliance. He urged businesses to display “swadeshi” boards, promoting Indian-made goods to counter global trade challenges and boost local economies.

During his two-day Gujarat visit, Modi inaugurated projects worth Rs 5,477 crore, including infrastructure developments like the SP Ring Road widening, stormwater drainage systems, and railway enhancements such as the Mehsana-Palanpur line doubling. He also launched 1,449 houses and 130 shops for slum dwellers in Ramapir Tekra, highlighting his government’s commitment to uplifting the poor, with 25 crore people lifted out of poverty in the last 11 years.

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Modi celebrated India’s strength, referencing “Operation Sindoor,” a military response to the Pahalgam terror attack, as a testament to the nation’s resolve against threats. He contrasted Ahmedabad’s past struggles with riots and curfews to its current status as a safe commercial hub. Looking ahead, Modi announced plans for GST reforms as a “Diwali gift” to ease burdens on traders and families, reinforcing his vision for a self-reliant “Viksit Bharat.” On August 26, he will launch Maruti Suzuki’s first electric vehicle, the e-Vitara, at their Hansalpur facility, marking a step toward sustainable innovation.

As the U.S. tariff deadline looms, Modi’s defiance signals India’s readiness to navigate global trade challenges while prioritizing its farmers and entrepreneurs, setting the stage for a robust response to protect national interests.

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