Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday stressed that India’s primary challenge is its dependence on other nations, calling it the country’s “real enemy.” Addressing the public in Bhavnagar, he urged citizens and policymakers alike to embrace self-reliance (Atmanirbharta) to safeguard national strength, dignity, and global respect.
Dependence as a Threat to National Strength
Modi elaborated on the risks of relying heavily on foreign countries, stating, “The greater the foreign dependence, the greater the nation’s failure.” He emphasized that India, as the world’s most populous country, must prioritize self-sufficiency to secure peace, stability, and prosperity both domestically and globally.
He underscored the connection between national pride and economic independence, asserting that reliance on others undermines the country’s self-respect. “If we remain dependent on others, our self-respect will be hurt. We cannot leave the future of 1.4 billion countrymen to others,” Modi said.
Context: H-1B Visa Fee Hike and Trade Tariffs
The Prime Minister’s remarks come in the wake of rising concerns over US policies impacting India. On Friday, US President Donald Trump signed a proclamation imposing a $100,000 fee on H-1B visa applications, effective September 21, 2025. With Indians accounting for 71% of H-1B visa holders, this move is expected to disproportionately affect Indian professionals in the United States.
At the same time, India continues to face sweeping 50% tariffs imposed by the US on key exports, heightening the urgency for domestic self-reliance and reduced foreign dependence.
Call for Atmanirbharta
Modi reiterated that India’s development and the welfare of future generations cannot be contingent on foreign powers. “There is only one medicine for a hundred sorrows, and that is a self-reliant India,” he said, linking Atmanirbharta directly to national security, economic growth, and long-term global influence.
