Clear signals suggest that the Trump tariff shocks have jolted India awake, wounded its self-respect, and eroded trust in friendships. The positive aspect is that self-reliance will pave the way for a new India.

Soon, alternatives to all American brands and services will be sought. George Fernandes of the Janata Party had once kicked out Coca-Cola to open the market for the ‘Double Seven Cold Drink’. Hindu nationalist organisations and activists linked to the ‘Swadeshi’ movement must now step up and join the campaign to reduce dependence on America. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his longest-ever Independence Day speech on August 15, lasting 103 minutes, emphasised’Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and national security amid the Trump administration’s tariff war. The speech presented a roadmap for ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047, prioritising indigenous technology, energy security, and economic resilience. 

India’s goal of self-reliance in defence production is also a response to the US-China conflict, as Trump’s restrictions on Chinese technology have disrupted global supply chains. The PM announced a ₹1 lakh crore ‘Viksit Bharat Employment Scheme’ and GST reforms to sustain India’s growth despite global economic instability. 

India is focusing on self-sufficiency in semiconductors and electric vehicles, with the announcement of its first indigenous semiconductor chip marking a major milestone. Additionally, self-reliance in jet engines and AI technology will position India as an independent player in the global tech war. 

Modi has set a target of increasing nuclear energy capacity tenfold by 2047, contrasting Trump’s reliance on oil and gas imports. While US sanctions on Russian oil and tariffs on Chinese solar panels have destabilised energy markets, India is advancing in green energy. 

The ‘Samudra Manthan Mission’ and ‘Hydrogen Mission’ will shield India from the global energy crisis, as Trump’s policies have driven up fuel prices. Expansion of the ‘PM-KISAN’ scheme and digital agricultural loans will provide relief to farmers. Eighty per cent of ‘Mudra Loan’ benefits will go to women, with a target of 50 per cent women in leadership roles by 2030. These measures position India as a model in addressing the global food crisis and women’s empowerment. 

Modi’s vision of a self-reliant India is a strong counter to Trump’s tariff war. By focusing on domestic production, energy independence, and tech innovation, India is forging ahead. 

The dream of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047 can only be realised if India strengthens its economy amid global turbulence. Modi’s policies chart a course toward a self-reliant, powerful, and just nation. Guided by the principle of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas’, India is carving a distinct identity on the global stage.