**Our Real Enemy Is Dependence on Other Countries: Modi**
*By Snehil Singh | Sep 20, 2025, 04:50 PM*
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday underscored the importance of self-reliance in India, describing it as a matter of national pride and a cornerstone for the country’s future.
Speaking at a public event in Bhavnagar, Gujarat, Modi stated, “We have no major enemy in the world. Our only real enemy is our dependence on other countries.” He emphasized that reducing foreign dependence is critical for India’s strength and sovereignty.
**National Strength Linked to Self-Reliance**
Modi stressed, “The greater the foreign dependence, the greater the nation’s failure.” He highlighted self-reliance as essential not just for India’s progress but also for maintaining global peace and prosperity.
His remarks come amid rising concerns over recent U.S. policy changes affecting India. On Friday, U.S. President Donald Trump signed a proclamation imposing a $100,000 fee on H-1B visa applications starting September 21—a move that is expected to disproportionately impact India, which accounts for 71% of H-1B visa holders.
Moreover, India continues to face the repercussions of a 50% tariff imposed by the U.S. on Indian imports, underscoring the need for economic independence.
**Economic Independence: From Chips to Ships**
In his address, Modi called for India to become self-reliant across various sectors. “From chips to ships, we must make everything,” he said, reinforcing the drive to boost domestic manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign goods.
**Harnessing Maritime Strength**
The Prime Minister also highlighted India’s potential as a global maritime powerhouse. He described ports as the “backbone of our nation’s rise” and announced the launch of the reform initiative “One Nation, One Document” aimed at simplifying trade through Indian ports and enhancing efficiency.
**A Shift from Past Restrictions**
Modi criticized previous Congress-led governments for stifling India’s potential through restrictive policies like the license raj, which held back talent and innovation.
**Advancing Self-Reliance in Defense**
Turning to defense, the Prime Minister cited INS Vikrant—a domestically built aircraft carrier—as an example of India’s indigenous manufacturing capabilities. “More than 40 ships and submarines have been introduced, and except for a few, all of them have been made in India,” he said, highlighting strides toward defense self-sufficiency.
He also remarked on the high cost of shipping goods via foreign companies, noting that expenses incurred are nearly equal to India’s entire defense budget, further strengthening the case for boosting Indian capabilities.
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Prime Minister Modi’s call for self-reliance comes at a pivotal time as India navigates global economic challenges and seeks to assert its strategic and industrial independence on the world stage.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/dependence-on-other-countries-is-india-s-biggest-enemy-pm-modi/story