How does self-reliance extend beyond import and export in the context of India's development?

Self-reliance, as emphasized by the Prime Minister, goes much deeper than simply reducing imports and increasing exports. It is about empowering the nation to build on its own strengths, resources, and capabilities across various sectors. This broader vision of self-reliance aims to make India resilient, innovative, and globally competitive.

• Strengthening Domestic Industries: Encouraging local manufacturing, technology development, and entrepreneurship to reduce dependency on foreign products and create jobs within the country.
• Innovation and Research: Investing in scientific research, education, and innovation to develop indigenous solutions for national challenges in health, agriculture, defense, and technology.
• Human Resource Development: Skilling and upskilling the workforce to meet the demands of modern industries, thus making India a hub of talent and productivity.
• Infrastructure Development: Building robust infrastructure—roads, railways, digital networks, energy systems—to support economic activities and improve quality of life.
• Food and Energy Security: Ensuring self-sufficiency in food production and renewable energy to reduce vulnerabilities in times of global crisis.
• Promoting Local Businesses: Supporting MSMEs, start-ups, and cottage industries through policy incentives, easier credit, and market access to boost the local economy.
• Social Inclusion: Ensuring that the benefits of growth reach all sections of society, especially marginalized communities, through targeted welfare schemes and inclusive policies.
• Environmental Sustainability: Focusing on sustainable development practices to protect natural resources and ensure long-term prosperity.
• Governance and Policy Reforms: Improving ease of doing business, transparency, and efficiency in governance to create a conducive environment for self-reliance.

Thus, self-reliance for India is a holistic approach that covers economic, social, technological, and environmental dimensions, aiming for a strong, confident, and sustainable nation.