Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday emphasized the importance of India becoming self-reliant, asserting that the nation’s dependence on foreign countries undermines its growth and security. Speaking at the ‘Samudra se Samriddhi’ event in Bhavnagar, Modi also criticized historical economic policies implemented by the Congress party, which he said had limited India’s potential.
During the rally, the Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation for development projects worth over ₹34,200 crore, aimed at boosting infrastructure, regional development, and industrial growth in Gujarat. He described these initiatives as key steps toward making India globally competitive and economically independent.
Highlighting the central theme of the Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative, Modi stated, “The greater the foreign dependence, the greater the country’s failure.” He underscored that self-reliance is essential not only for economic growth but also for national pride, dignity, and security.
Modi further criticized successive Congress governments for policies that he said stifled India’s economic potential. He cited the era of “license-quota raj” and an over-reliance on imports as examples of policies that isolated India from global markets. The Prime Minister added that such approaches, combined with corruption, restricted opportunities for the youth and slowed the country’s progress.
Focusing on future growth, Modi stressed the need for India to strengthen capabilities in strategic sectors such as semiconductor manufacturing, shipbuilding, and high-end industrial technology. He urged domestic industries to innovate and reduce reliance on imports, ensuring India is self-sufficient in critical areas of the economy.
The rally also served as a platform for the Prime Minister to highlight the government’s commitment to regional development in Gujarat, including projects in ports, energy, and transport infrastructure, aimed at creating employment and promoting economic prosperity.
Concluding his address, Modi reiterated that self-reliance is not just an economic goal but a national mission. He called upon citizens, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to contribute toward building an Atmanirbhar Bharat capable of facing global challenges independently.
