PM Modi Urges Swadeshi Shopping Push Ahead of Festive Season

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged citizens to maintain their support for locally-made products as the festive shopping season approaches for Christmas and New Year celebrations. During his monthly ‘Mann Ki Baat’ radio address, the Prime Minister emphasized that the ‘vocal for local’ movement has become integral to Indian consumers’ lives.

Swadeshi Movement Gains Momentum

Modi expressed satisfaction that millions of Indians have embraced the ‘vocal for local’ spirit. “People’s preferences, and the goods brought into their homes, clearly indicated that the country was returning to Swadeshi,” said Modi. “People were willingly choosing Indian products.”

The Prime Minister noted that even small shopkeepers have noticed this shift, with youth particularly driving the campaign forward.

Economic Boost from Domestic Consumption

India’s economy registered robust 8.2% growth in the July-September period, marking the fastest expansion in six quarters. This follows 5.6% growth in the same quarter last year and 7.8% in the preceding April-June quarter.

The growth surge was driven by manufacturing, financial services, and increased consumption, supported by GST reforms implemented in September that reduced tax rates on numerous products and services.

Agricultural Achievements

India achieved a record 357 million tonnes of food grain production in 2025, representing a 100-million-tonne increase over the past decade. Kharif food grain output is projected to reach 173.33 million tonnes in 2025-26, boosted by favorable monsoon conditions.

Other agricultural highlights include:

• Honey production doubled from 76,000 to over 150,000 tonnes in 11 years
• Honey exports increased three-fold during the same period
• Sulai honey from Jammu and Kashmir received GI tag in 2023
• Progress in natural farming methods across southern regions

Global Showcase of Indian Craftsmanship

Modi highlighted his gifts to world leaders as examples of India’s rich craftsmanship:

• Bronze Nataraja statue from Thanjavur to South African President
• Silver horse replica from Udaipur to Canadian Prime Minister
• Silver Buddha showcasing Karimnagar craftsmanship to Japanese Prime Minister
• Brass urli from Mannar, Kerala to Australian Prime Minister

“My aim was to make the world aware of Indian crafts, art, and traditions, and to provide a global platform to the talent of our artisans,” Modi stated.

Technological and Defense Advancements

India’s technological prowess was demonstrated through ISRO’s complex drone-maneuvering competition, where a Pune-based team successfully navigated a drone in simulated Mars-like conditions. The Chandrayaan-3 moon mission success further highlighted the dedication of Indian youth.

In defense, the induction of INS Mahe strengthens India’s naval capabilities. The warship’s design incorporates traditional elements, with its crest resembling the Urumi flexible sword from Kalaripayattu.

Winter Tourism Promotion

Modi encouraged Indians to explore Himalayan destinations during winter, highlighting the country’s potential for winter tourism. Popular spots include Auli, Munsyari, Chopta, and Deyara. The ‘Wed in India’ campaign is also gaining traction, with hill stations becoming preferred destinations for winter weddings.

“We have mountains, culture, and endless possibilities for adventure,” Modi said, promoting domestic travel opportunities.