Modi calls for self-reliance as Trump administration raises H-1B visa fee to $100,000 and imposes steep tariffs on Indian imports
Bhavnagar (Gujarat), Sept 21: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday declared that India’s “biggest enemy” is not any foreign power but its own dependence on other countries. His remarks came soon after the United States imposed steep tariffs on Indian imports and announced a massive hike in H-1B visa fees to $100,000.
Speaking at a public gathering in Bhavnagar, Gujarat, PM Modi said, “If we have any enemy, it is our dependence on other nations. This is our biggest enemy, and together we must defeat it.” He stressed that self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) is the only way forward for India to secure its economic independence and global respect.
US Tariffs and H-1B Visa Fee Hike Trigger Modi’s Response
The Prime Minister’s strong statement followed an executive order signed by US President Donald Trump that imposes a $100,000 annual fee on H-1B visa applications. The administration justified the move by citing concerns over American jobs being replaced by foreign workers and national security.
The H-1B visa program, which grants 85,000 slots per year, is heavily utilized by Indian IT professionals, who account for nearly three-quarters of the recipients. The fee hike—from less than $1,000 to $100,000—has sparked outrage among Indian tech companies, as it significantly increases the cost of hiring skilled workers.
In addition, Trump imposed steep tariffs on Indian imports, linking the decision to India’s continued purchase of Russian oil, which he said indirectly funds Moscow’s war in Ukraine.
India Must Build Chips and Ships Domestically: PM Modi
PM Modi underlined the urgent need to reduce India’s dependence on foreign manufacturing, especially in semiconductors and shipbuilding. Calling shipbuilding the “mother of all industries,” he said it supports growth in steel, machinery, textiles, IT, and other sectors, while also strengthening MSMEs.
Highlighting the economic cost of dependence, he revealed that India spends nearly ₹6 lakh crore annually on foreign shipping services, almost equal to the country’s entire defence budget. “This money could have stayed in India to strengthen our maritime industry,” Modi said.
Political Message: From License Raj to Atmanirbhar Bharat
Taking a swipe at past governments, Modi criticised the license-quota raj before 1991 and blamed Congress-era policies for making India excessively dependent on imports. He said that the present government is committed to building a truly Atmanirbhar Bharat, reducing reliance on external powers in critical sectors.
What’s Next in US-India Relations?
The escalating trade tensions between India and the United States are likely to affect technology firms, exporters, and professionals. With the H-1B visa fee now at $100,000, Indian tech workers may face reduced opportunities, while tariffs could impact bilateral trade.
PM Modi’s call for self-reliance reflects India’s push to insulate its economy from such external shocks and strengthen domestic industries for long-term resilience.
photo sources from social media.