Amid the ongoing tension between India and the US over trade relations, a sharp and important statement has come out. This statement is from Baba Ramdev, co-founder of Patanjali Ayurveda. He has strongly condemned US President Donald Trump's economic policies, especially the heavy tariffs being imposed on various countries. Baba Ramdev termed the tariffs as “terrorism” and compared the “economic war” to World War III.
'Tariffs are terrorism': Baba Ramdev
Baba Ramdev used very harsh words while expressing his views on US economic policy. “Tariffs are like terrorism, they are very dangerous. After World War II, if World War III happens, it is this economic war,” he said. He also stressed that in this global economic struggle, at least the interests of poor and developing countries should be considered.
Baba Ramdev hit out at US policies, calling them “imperialist” and “expansionist”. He strongly criticized the system of controlling the power and wealth of the world by a few. They clearly believe that such a system will only lead to inequality, injustice, exploitation and conflict throughout the world.
He warned, “Everyone should live within their limits and strengthen the tradition of moving forward with everyone. If a handful of people control the power, wealth, prosperity and power of the world, inequality, injustice, exploitation, conflict and bloodshed will only spread throughout the world.” This comment directly questions the global system, where economic policies are affecting the lives of common man.
'Indigenous' answer to this economic war
When Baba Ramdev was asked if the answer to such an economic war could be to adopt 'swadeshi' products, he vehemently endorsed it. He elaborated on Swadeshi's philosophy saying that it is not limited to buying local products, but its core principle lies in the spirit of uplifting all together (sarvodaya).
He said, “Swadeshi is a philosophy of self-reliance and upliftment of the last person in society.” Baba Ramdev reminded that many great Indian personalities from Maharishi Dayananda to Swami Vivekananda have advocated the idea of “swadeshi”.
What is the issue of Indo-US dispute?
Notably, the US has imposed a hefty 50 percent tariff on Indian imports, making it difficult for Indian products to compete in the American market.
Currently, negotiations for a new trade agreement between India and the US are in the final stages. There are reports from the US camp that India has agreed to reduce purchases of Russian oil. However, the Government of India has always maintained a consistent and sovereign stance on the issue.
India's Ministry of External Affairs has repeatedly emphasized that India is sovereign in determining its energy independence and needs. External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal has already clarified that India is a major importer of oil, and protecting the interests of Indian consumers in this volatile global energy scenario is the government's top priority. India's import policies are entirely driven by this objective, including diversifying energy sources to meet its needs.
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