Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Criticizes US Tariffs, Affirms India’s Path to Superpower Status and Self-Reliance
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh delivered a strong message addressing global powers, particularly targeting US tariffs and political attitudes. At a recent event in Madhya Pradesh, Singh took a pointed dig at US President Donald Trump with a subtle “Sabke Boss” reference, asserting that no country can halt India’s rapid progress toward becoming a global superpower.
Key Highlights from Rajnath Singh’s Speech
- Criticism of US Tariffs:
Singh condemned the over 50% tariffs imposed by the US on India for importing Russian oil, calling them “unfair and unreasonable.” He described these tariffs as attempts to make India-made products expensive and less competitive in global markets. - India’s Unstoppable Growth:
“Some people are unable to accept India’s progress,” Singh stated. “But the pace at which India is progressing, no global power can stop us from becoming a superpower.” - ‘Sabke Boss’ Reference:
Using the phrase “Sabke boss toh hum hain” (I am everyone’s boss), Singh highlighted the irony in how some global leaders struggle to accept India’s fast growth.
Boost to ‘Make in India’ and Self-Reliance
- Singh laid the foundation stone for Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML)’s ‘Bramha’ Rail Hub in Raisen district, Madhya Pradesh, as part of India’s push for self-reliance and defence manufacturing.
- He highlighted the success of Operation Sindoor, which used indigenous equipment, reflecting India’s growing defence capabilities.
- “Our defence production and exports have surged from Rs 600 crore in 2014 to over Rs 24,000 crore today,” he proudly noted.
India’s Economic and Industrial Transformation
- Singh compared India’s economy today to 2014, noting it has risen from the 11th to the 4th largest economy globally.
- India’s growth rate of 6.3% is among the fastest worldwide, with expanding defence exports and manufacturing.
- He announced a new Rs 1,800 crore Greenfield Rail Coach Factory in Raisen, expected to create 5,000 direct jobs and support high-speed train projects.
Madhya Pradesh’s Role in India’s Growth Story
- Praising Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, Singh highlighted the state’s Rs 30 lakh crore investment commitments and vast land bank of 18,000 hectares.
- He emphasized the importance of balancing industrial development with environmental preservation, calling Madhya Pradesh “Modern Pradesh” due to its rapid growth and infrastructure improvements.
Rajnath Singh’s speech reinforces India’s firm stand against international economic pressures and celebrates the country’s strides in self-reliance and economic growth. His words send a clear message that India’s rise is unstoppable, driven by domestic innovation and global ambition.