Saturday, March 29, 2025
India Must Strengthen Economy and Technology to Become ‘Vishwaguru,’ Says Nitin Gadkari
Nagpur, August 10, 2025 – Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has made a pointed remark amid ongoing tariff tensions with the United States, stating that countries showing “bullying tactics” on the world stage are able to do so because they are economically strong and technologically advanced. Speaking at the Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology (VNIT) in Nagpur, Gadkari emphasized that India too must strengthen its economy and technological capabilities if it aspires to become a “Vishwaguru” (global leader).
Highlighting the importance of reducing dependency on other nations, Gadkari said that India needs to cut down imports and boost exports to build a robust economy. “If our exports and economy grow rapidly, I don’t think we will ever need to bow before anyone. Those who are flexing their muscles are doing so because they are financially strong and have advanced technology,” he remarked.
Gadkari’s comments come in the backdrop of increasing trade friction between India and the United States, particularly over tariffs. He underlined that economic resilience and innovation in technology are key to safeguarding national interests.
The minister further stressed that India’s approach to global leadership would remain rooted in its cultural ethos. “Even if we become economically and technologically strong, we will never bully others, because our culture teaches us that the welfare of the world is paramount,” he said.
Calling for a coordinated national effort, Gadkari urged research institutions, IITs, and engineering colleges to work towards innovations aligned with India’s needs. He asserted that by leveraging science, technology, and knowledge, India’s economy could potentially triple in size.
His remarks signal a dual message—while India must prepare itself to stand firm against global economic pressures, it must also lead with principles of cooperation and mutual growth, in contrast to the aggressive posturing seen in some developed nations.
