NEW DELHI: In a powerful address on the day Donald Trump’s steep 50 per cent tariffs on Indian goods took effect, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat articulated a vision of “true Swadeshi”—one that champions self-reliance as the bedrock of national strength. Dr Bhagwat delivered these remarks on the second day of the lecture series titled 100 years of Sangh Yatra.
The new tariffs, a major escalation in trade friction between the US and Bharat, have been imposed on a wide range of Indian exports, including textiles, gems, and seafood. This move is linked to India’s continued purchases of Russian oil and defence equipment, a point of contention with the Trump administration. According to the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI), the tariffs affect an estimated $60.2 billion worth of Indian exports, with some sectors facing a potential 70 per cent collapse in export volumes. This could lead to a significant decline in overall shipments to the US, putting hundreds of thousands of jobs at risk and potentially shaving 0.4–0.5 per cent off India’s GDP growth.
Bhagwat ji’s speech transcended economic policy, framing the current global turmoil as a deeper crisis of values. He pointed to the failures of international bodies like the League of Nations and the United Nations to prevent conflict, noting that the world remains on edge. He warned that rising unrest, intolerance, and “fanaticism” are eroding the core tenets of societies worldwide. In a notable comment, he described ideologies such as “wokeism” as a profound crisis for nations everywhere, unsettling both the older and younger generations. This critique extends a long-standing dialogue within the RSS about preserving traditional cultural values against what it views as a destabilizing Western influence.
Bhagwat emphasised that religion, in its truest form, is not merely about rituals but is Dharma—a universal principle that embraces diversity and teaches balance. He called for a return to fundamental ethical and moral principles, cautioning against what he termed the “seven social sins,” as articulated by MK Gandhi: wealth without work, pleasure without conscience, knowledge without character, commerce without morality, science without humanity, religion without sacrifice, and politics without principles.
In a crucial part of his address, Dr Bhagwat stressed the importance of discipline and adherence to democratic principles. He urged citizens to respect the Constitution, laws, and rules of the land. In moments of discontent, he said, peaceful protest must be the only way forward, cautioning against being provoked by “anarchist elements.” This call for disciplined and non-violent dissent reflects a commitment to a stable and orderly society, even when navigating complex political and economic challenges. By linking economic self-reliance with a broader ethical framework and a respect for democratic institutions, Dr Bhagwat presented a comprehensive vision for India’s future that seeks to merge nationalistic economic policy with a strong moral and civil foundation.
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