AHMEDABAD: Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his two-day visit to Gujarat on Monday with a roadshow and a public meeting in Nikol, Ahmedabad, where he inaugurated development projects worth Rs 5,477 crore. In a 52-minute address, the Prime Minister touched on a wide range of themes including self-reliance, tax reforms, and governance, while also making pointed references to India’s economic policies and political history.
Kicking off his speech, Modi stressed the importance of resilience and self-interest in global politics, asserting that India must remain focused on its own development and strength. While he did not directly name the United States, he alluded to the upcoming 50% tariff on Indian goods, due to take effect from 27 August, and assured small shopkeepers, farmers, and livestock rearers that the government would protect their interests. “We will bear any pressure. Modi will never allow you to be harmed,” he said.
The Prime Minister cited India’s social progress, claiming that 25 crore citizens have risen out of poverty, a development he said has gained global recognition. He promised continued empowerment for the neo-middle class and middle class, including proposed income tax exemption up to Rs 12 lakh and Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms. “This Diwali will bring a double bonus of happiness for traders and families alike,” he stated.
Modi also drew upon Gujarat’s cultural and spiritual legacy, describing the state as the land of “two Mohans”, Lord Krishna, symbolising strength through the Sudarshan Chakra, and Mahatma Gandhi, representing non-violence and self-reliance through the Charkha. “India’s strength today reflects both courage and self-sufficiency,” he said, referring to recent swift responses to terrorism.
Criticising the Congress, Modi accused previous governments of misrepresenting Gandhian values while using his name for political purposes. He contrasted this with his government’s focus on cleanliness, self-reliance, and indigenous growth. “Today, India is building a developed nation on the strength of farmers, fishermen, animal husbandry, and entrepreneurs,” he said.
Reinforcing the ‘Made in India’ initiative, Modi urged citizens and traders to adopt Swadeshi practices, suggesting that even gifts should be locally made. “Put up boards saying ‘My house sells only Made in India’,” he appealed, framing consumer choice as an act of national service.
To illustrate Gujarat’s progress, the Prime Minister cited examples such as the rail coach factory in Dahod, which exports metro coaches, and Gujarat’s dominance in the diamond polishing industry. “Nine out of ten diamonds in the world are polished in Gujarat,” he said, adding that both Indian and international companies are investing in the state.
Concluding his address, Modi emphasised that India's journey towards becoming a developed nation must rely on indigenous products. “Improve quality, reduce cost, and the people of India will choose nothing from outside. Let the world see India lead by example,” he said, expressing confidence that just as Gujarat stood by him, the entire nation would support the mission of building a self-reliant India.