Baba Ramdev
A big and sharp statement has come out amidst the ongoing tussle regarding trade relations between India and America. This statement has come from Baba Ramdev, yoga guru and co-founder of Patanjali Ayurveda. He has strongly condemned the economic policies of US President Donald Trump, especially the huge tariffs (import duties) being imposed on various countries. Baba Ramdev has directly termed this tariff as ‘terrorism’ and has compared the situation of this ‘economic war’ to the ‘Third World War’.
‘Tariff is a terror’: Baba Ramdev
Baba Ramdev used very strong words while expressing his views on American economic policy. He said, “Tariffs are terrorism, it is very deadly. After the Second World War, if there is a Third World War, it is this economic war.” He also emphasized that in this global economic tug-of-war, at least the interests of poor and developing countries should be kept in mind.
Baba Ramdev targeted the current policies of America and described them as having ‘imperialist’ and ‘expansionist’ tendencies. He strongly criticized the system of control of a few people over the world’s power and prosperity. He clearly believes that such a system will only give rise to inequality, injustice, exploitation and conflict across the world.
He said in a warning tone, “Everyone should live within their limits and strengthen the tradition of moving forward by taking everyone along. If only a handful of people control the strength, wealth, prosperity and power of the world, then inequality, injustice, exploitation, conflict and bloodshed will spread across the world.” This comment directly questions the global system where economic policies are affecting the lives of the common man.
The answer to this economic war is ‘Swadeshi’
When Baba Ramdev was asked whether the answer to such an economic war could be the adoption of ‘swadeshi’ (Indian made) products, he strongly supported it. Explaining the philosophy of Swadeshi in depth, he said that it is not limited to just buying domestic products, but its basic principle lies in the spirit of uplifting everyone together (Sarvodaya).
He said, “Swadeshi is the philosophy of self-reliance, self-reliance and upliftment of the last man in the society.” Baba Ramdev reminded that from Maharishi Dayanand to Swami Vivekananda, many great Indian figures have advocated the idea of ’Swadeshi’.
Explaining the basic idea of Swadeshi, he said, “All these great people have said that everyone should be uplifted. You remain dedicated, and along with yourself, also uplift the people around you, your environment. This is the root of Swadeshi.” His statement has come at a time when protectionist policies are dominating global trade and many countries are looking towards ‘self-reliance’.
What is the matter stuck between India and America?
It is noteworthy that America has imposed a heavy tariff of 50 percent on Indian imports, due to which it has become difficult for Indian products to compete in the American market.
At present, talks between India and America regarding a new trade deal (India-US trade deal) are in the final stages. There are reports from the American camp that India has agreed to reduce the purchase of Russian oil. However, the Government of India has always taken a firm and sovereign stand on this issue.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs has repeatedly stressed that India is sovereign to decide on 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 the Indian consumer in this volatile global energy scenario is the top priority of the government. India’s import policies are entirely driven by this objective, including diversification of energy sources (i.e. purchasing from different countries) to meet its needs.