Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday emphasised the importance of promoting 'Swadeshi' and 'Swabhasha' to strengthen India’s economic and cultural foundations. Speaking at the Maheshwari Global Convention in Jodhpur, he urged people to use locally made products and converse in their mother tongue at home.

Shah stressed that ‘Swadeshi’ is a key component of achieving 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat', calling it the “only mantra” to make India a leading nation across fields by 2047. He encouraged businesses to innovate and manufacture at least one product not currently made in India alongside their existing production lines.

Highlighting the importance of native languages, Shah urged members of the Maheshwari community to teach Marwari and Rajasthani to their children. “We should learn all languages for progress, but must not forget our mother tongue. Speaking in Marwari and Rajasthani keeps us connected to our culture and history,” he said.

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Shah also lauded the Maheshwari community for their philanthropic and entrepreneurial contributions. He noted that they have historically upheld justice and valor, with several community members playing key roles in nation-building efforts, including sacrifices in the Ram Temple movement post-Independence.

The minister further highlighted the role of community gatherings in uniting and strengthening the country. “Unity is crucial not only within a community but for the nation. If each community cares for its underprivileged, the country’s poor will benefit collectively. Independence of communities contributes to a self-reliant India,” he said.

During the event, Shah released a commemorative stamp recognising the Maheshwari community’s contributions. Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and community leaders lauded their efforts in nation-building, while Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla urged the youth to follow the principles of their ancestors to contribute to a self-reliant India.

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