Prioritise Local Production Over Avoidable Imports: Vice-President

Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar has called upon the people to embrace economic nationalism, urging the industry, trade, and commerce sectors to prioritise local production over avoidable imports. Emphasising the concept of economic nationalism as a facet of Swadeshi and a reflection of being vocal for local, the vice president highlighted the negative impact of unnecessary imports on the economy, including the drain of foreign exchange and the loss of job opportunities for Indian workers.

“Our reliance on imported items like carpets, garments, and toys is not only sending our foreign exchange abroad but also impeding the growth of domestic entrepreneurship,” he said and appealed to the industry to resolve this issue by supporting local production, which would, in turn, provide work for Indian workers and foster entrepreneurship.

Addressing a gathering at the Swarna Bharat Trust, Venkatachalam, Dhankhar underscored the critical need for optimal consumption of natural resources, urging citizens to use resources based on necessity rather than financial power. He emphasised that overuse of natural resources driven by economic strength poses a significant threat to future generations.

Cautioning against reckless expenditure, he remarked that such actions would jeopardise the well-being of future generations. "If we spend unnecessarily based on the power of money, we are putting the future generation in danger," he noted. Expressing concern over the export of raw materials, such as iron ore, without value addition, Dhankhar stated that this practice not only diminishes employment potential but also weakens the nation’s economic framework.

“It is painful to see our iron ore leaving the ports without added value. As a nation, we cannot afford to prioritise easy and quick money over long-term national interests,” he asserted. The VP called for a collective effort to prioritise the nation's well-being over political, self, and economic interests, expressing confidence that this shift in mindset will be achieved.

Quoting a Shloka from Rig Veda, which states "संगच्छध्वं संवदध्वं सं वो", he urged, "Let us move together. Let us speak in one voice, and always for the nation." Emphasising the importance of national unity, he said, "Let us always keep the nation above everything else." He also highlighted the urgent need for tangible actions that bring real change to the lives of ordinary citizens who have given up hope.

Expressing deep admiration and respect for the former Vice President, M. Venkaiah Naidu, he highlighted Naidu’s lifelong dedication to the welfare of the nation, particularly his unflinching commitment to the ideals that have shaped his public life.

“It is easy to emulate his principles and ideals, but difficult to get into his shoes. His is a life dedicated to welfare of the nation, unflinching commitment to ideals, and his heart is in rural India. Right from the time I stepped into the premises of the Swarna Bharat Trust, I saw civilisation in action!,” he added.