PM Modi Counters Trump’s ‘Dead Economy’ Jibe, Says India Poised to Become World’s Third-Largest Economy

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a veiled response to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent remarks calling India’s economy “dead,” asserted on Saturday that India is on track to become the third-largest economy in the world and must remain vigilant in safeguarding its economic interests amid global instability.

Addressing a rally in Varanasi, Modi emphasized the need for economic self-reliance, underscoring the government’s focus on farmers, small industries, and employment for youth. His comments come just days after Trump announced a 25% tariff on Indian imports and warned of further penalties over India’s ongoing trade with Russia.

“There is an atmosphere of global instability. All countries are prioritizing their own interests. India too must stay alert to protect its economic interests as it moves toward becoming the third-largest economy,” said Modi.

While not naming Trump directly, Modi’s remarks were widely seen as a pointed rebuttal to the former U.S. president’s claims that India’s economy had “tanked” and was overly reliant on American markets.

Push for ‘Swadeshi’ and Economic Resilience

Reiterating his government’s ‘Vocal for Local’ campaign, the Prime Minister urged citizens and businesses to support indigenous manufacturing and products.

“We will buy only those things that are made by Indians. We need to become vocal for local,” Modi said, calling on people across political lines to set aside differences and unite in promoting ‘swadeshi’ (Made-in-India) products.

He appealed to India’s business community to prioritize domestic goods, especially in the face of global economic disruptions.

“To my brothers and sisters in business — the world is unstable. Let us commit to selling only swadeshi goods,” he said.

Focus on Grassroots Development

Modi reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening the foundations of the economy, stating:

“Our farmers, our small-scale industries, and employment for the youth are our top priority. The government is doing everything it can in the nation’s interest — but every citizen also has responsibilities.”

₹2,200 Crore Projects for Varanasi

Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for infrastructure projects worth ₹2,200 crore in Varanasi. These include:

• Widening and strengthening of key roads

• Railway overbridge construction

• Upgrades to urban and rural transport corridors

These initiatives are part of Modi’s ongoing efforts to modernize Varanasi, his parliamentary constituency since 2014.

As India positions itself on the global economic stage, Modi’s remarks appeared aimed not just at deflecting external criticism but also at rallying national support around domestic production and economic unity.