'Dependence mustn't turn into compulsion': RSS chief amid US tariffs
What's the story
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has reacted to the United States's tariff policy on Indian goods. Speaking at the Vijayadashami event in Nagpur, Bhagwat said the new tariff policy implemented by the US was "done keeping in mind the interest of their own." He said while global interdependence is a reality, it shouldn't turn into compulsion. "We must move towards swadeshi and self-reliance; there is no alternative. Our harmony must be our own," he said.
Regional stability
On Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh
Bhagwat also spoke about recent unrest in Nepal and other neighboring countries, warning that such events could lead to foreign interference. He said violent uprisings only lead to anarchy. He said forces wanting to create such disturbances in Bharat are active both "inside and outside our country." "Democratic movements bring change; violent uprisings don't...France rose against its king and Napoleon became emperor. So many so-called socialist movements happened, all these socialist countries are now capitalist," he said.
National harmony
On recent attack in Pahalgam
The RSS chief also spoke about India's diversity and the need to embrace differences within the law. He condemned provoking communities and stressed on fair administration. "The administration must act fairly, but the youth must also stay alert and intervene if needed. The grammar of anarchy needs to be stopped," he said, adding that the 'us' vs 'them' mentality is "not acceptable."
Economic focus
Modi's push to buy local products
In his recent addresses, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also reiterated his push to promote swadeshi items, asking Indians to become self-sufficient and minimize their dependency on foreign-made goods. "Often, we don't even know if the comb in our pocket is made in India or abroad, we should buy products that are Made in India, crafted through the hard work of our country's youth, products that carry the sweat of our sons...daughters," he said in one of his speeches.