Narendra Modi Urges Indians to Build Self-Reliant Bharat on Independence Day

PM Modi emphasized the importance of self-reliance and working towards a prosperous India, urging the nation to become "aatmanirbhar" in various sectors such as manufacturing, electric vehicles, and artificial intelligence. He also noted the rising trend of "economic selfishness" globally and asserted that India must empower itself during this time.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has underscored the importance of self-reliance in various sectors, including manufacturing, electric vehicles (EVs), and artificial intelligence. His emphasis on making India "aatmanirbhar" (self-reliant) comes amidst a global trend of "economic selfishness," where countries are prioritizing their own economic interests. This article explores India's strategic moves to achieve self-sufficiency in rare earth magnets and automotive technology, focusing on the latest initiatives and industry responses.

Rare Earth Magnets: A Critical Step Towards EV Self-Reliance

A report by advisory firm Primus Partners outlines a comprehensive five-pillar strategy to localize rare earth magnet production in India. This initiative aims to reduce India's near-total dependence on Chinese imports, which control over 90% of global magnet manufacturing [1]. The strategy includes market assurance through government-backed price guarantees and long-term offtake agreements, establishment of integrated pilot-scale clusters in mineral-rich states, and the formation of a Magnet Ecosystem Coordination Cell to align ministries and fast-track clearances.

The report suggests that recycling could supply up to 40 kt of rare earth magnets' global demand by 2030, emphasizing the importance of R&D in recycling, magnet efficiency, and process technology. The central government has earmarked Rs 1,345 crore to incentivize rare earth magnets production in India, reflecting a strong commitment to this sector [1].

Automotive Technology: Localizing Production for Future Growth

US-based chip major Qualcomm is actively localizing automotive module production in India, supporting its ecosystem partners in shifting manufacturing to the country. Nakul Duggal, group general manager for automotive, industrial and embedded IoT at Qualcomm Technologies, highlighted the company's efforts to support local automotive companies and build modules in India instead of relying on foreign manufacturing hubs like Taiwan, China, or Korea [2].

Qualcomm's Snapdragon Elite chipset platform is set to be deployed in a dozen vehicles by 2026, indicating a significant shift towards local production. The company aims to double its total revenue from the automotive business to about USD 8 billion by 2029, reflecting its commitment to the Indian market [2].

AI and Humanity: A Future of Mutual Empowerment

Trushant Mehta, CTO of OpenEyes Technologies Inc., emphasizes that AI is not an antagonist but a dynamic partner in shaping a future where human and machine intelligence work together. According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025, while 92 million jobs could be displaced by 2030 due to technological change, 170 million new roles are projected to emerge, resulting in a net gain of 78 million jobs [3].

AI is transforming sectors beyond tech, catalyzing productivity, revolutionizing drug discovery and healthcare, advancing space exploration, and optimizing renewable energy. The most successful organizations will integrate AI wisely, blending machine power with human empathy, creativity, and ethics.

Conclusion

India's strategic push towards self-reliance in rare earth magnets and automotive technology, coupled with the transformative potential of AI, positions the country for significant growth and resilience. By localizing production and fostering innovation, India can mitigate global supply chain vulnerabilities and empower itself during a time of economic selfishness.

References:
[1] https://auto.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/auto-components/indias-five-pillar-strategy-for-self-reliance-in-rare-earth-magnet-production/123283349
[2] https://auto.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/auto-technology/qualcomm-boosts-automotive-module-production-in-india-ahead-of-2026-rollout/123260786
[3] https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbestechcouncil/2025/08/15/ai-and-humanity-designing-a-future-of-mutual-empowerment/