Mohan Bhagwat’s Vijayadashami Speech Highlights: Call for Atmanirbhar Bharat Amid US Tariff Impact

On the occasion of Vijayadashami, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat delivered his annual speech in Nagpur, marking 100 years of the organization’s founding. His address combined a call for national self-reliance—Atmanirbhar Bharat—with sharp observations on India’s economic and geopolitical challenges, particularly the implications of rising US tariffs on Indian goods.

Bhagwat emphasized that India’s cultural strength, economic independence, and social unity remain the backbone of its growth. His remarks come at a time when New Delhi is grappling with external economic pressures and internal demands for policy reforms.

What Did Mohan Bhagwat Say?

The RSS chief touched on multiple themes in his Vijayadashami address:

1. Atmanirbhar Bharat Vision – A renewed push for domestic industries, innovation, and rural empowerment.
2. Global Economic Pressures – Warning against over-dependence on imports, highlighting the US tariff hike as a wake-up call.
3. Cultural Identity – Stressing India’s civilizational ethos as the guiding light for modern development.
4. National Security – A reminder that external threats require both military preparedness and social cohesion.
5. Social Unity – A strong appeal against divisive tendencies, urging Indians to “stand as one nation in spirit and action.”

Atmanirbhar Bharat in Focus

Bhagwat reiterated that India cannot rely solely on global supply chains. The US decision to impose steep tariffs on several categories of Indian exports, particularly pharmaceuticals and IT-related products, has exposed economic vulnerabilities.

He argued that self-reliance does not mean isolation but the ability to withstand shocks:

• Boosting local industries through policy support and consumer awareness.
• Investing in skill development so that youth become job creators rather than seekers.
• Strengthening agriculture with modern practices to reduce import dependency.

This message echoes Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s push for manufacturing resilience under Make in India and Digital India.

The Tariff Impact: A Reality Check

The US tariff hike—reportedly touching as high as 100% on certain pharmaceutical and branded goods—has sent tremors through Indian industry. IT companies, too, fear that visa restrictions combined with trade barriers could affect business expansion.

For India, this isn’t merely an economic disruption but also a reminder of why global reliance can become risky. Bhagwat framed it as a chance to accelerate India’s domestic innovation.

RSS at 100 Years: A Symbolic Moment

The Vijayadashami speech was particularly significant this year as the RSS marked a century of its existence. Founded in 1925, the RSS has grown into one of the most influential socio-cultural organizations in India, shaping debates on nationalism, cultural pride, and governance.

Bhagwat used the centenary to remind Indians that “self-reliance is not a choice—it is the only path to sovereignty.”

Political and Public Reactions

The speech sparked wide-ranging responses:

• BJP Leaders welcomed Bhagwat’s call, linking it with government policies on Make in India.
• Opposition Parties accused the RSS of using economic anxiety for political positioning.
• Industry Associations cautiously supported the Atmanirbhar call but asked for tax reforms, GST simplification, and infrastructure investment to make it practical.

Public opinion appeared divided—while some praised the vision of resilience, others questioned whether rhetoric will translate into real jobs and growth.

Historical Context of Vijayadashami Address

The Vijayadashami speech has historically been a platform where RSS chiefs set the tone for ideological and national debates. Past addresses have focused on issues like Article 370, social reform, and national security.

This year’s speech, however, placed sharper emphasis on economics and global trade—an indication that the RSS sees economic sovereignty as the next battleground for India’s future.

Global Angle: India’s Balancing Act

With the US hardening its trade stance and China expanding its economic footprint, India finds itself in a delicate balancing act. Bhagwat’s words echoed concerns about not being “trapped” between superpowers.

• India-US Ties: Essential for technology and defense collaboration but vulnerable to economic disputes.
• India-China Competition: Both opportunity and threat, as India must protect its industries while engaging in global supply chains.
• Global South Leadership: Bhagwat highlighted India’s moral responsibility to be the voice of developing nations seeking fair trade.

Bigger Picture: From Economy to National Morale

Beyond economics, the speech carried a deeper message: national morale is as important as GDP. Bhagwat argued that a confident, self-reliant India can withstand global challenges better than a dependent one.

His focus on unity suggested that internal divisions could weaken India more than any foreign policy shock.

Conclusion

Mohan Bhagwat’s Vijayadashami address was not merely ceremonial—it was a roadmap calling for India to secure its economic and cultural sovereignty. At a time when the world is facing trade wars, shifting alliances, and rising nationalism, his call for Atmanirbhar Bharat resonates as both a warning and an opportunity.

The speech signaled that self-reliance must now go beyond slogans and translate into structural reforms, innovation, and national solidarity. For India, the path forward will depend on how effectively it turns this call into tangible action.