From Bengal Partition to Viksit Bharat: How NCERT Maps India’s Journey to Self-Reliance

New Delhi is buzzing with news as the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) introduces new modules on ‘Swadeshi.’ These materials dive into the Swadeshi movement’s journey from its origins in 1905 to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent push for self-reliance.

In his Independence Day speech, PM Modi emphasized that a “self-reliant Bharat” is crucial for a developed India. He even encouraged teachers to spark campaigns promoting local products—aiming to boost both “Make in India” and “Vocal for Local” initiatives.

The NCERT’s modules, titled “Swadeshi: Vocal for Local” and “Swadeshi: For a Self-Reliant India,” highlight key points from the PM’s address about the importance of self-reliance in India’s progress.

The Swadeshi movement kicked off during India’s freedom struggle when the British divided Bengal in 1905. At that time, cheap British goods flooded Indian markets, harming local artisans and industries. The Swadeshi call urged consumers to support Indian products instead. It wasn’t just about rejecting imports; it was about fostering local alternatives.

This movement led to the establishment of key Indian enterprises, such as Bengal Chemical and Pharmaceutical Works and Tata Iron and Steel Company. These initiatives showed that self-reliance could lead to innovation and growth in local industries.

Prominent voices, like former Rajya Sabha MP Tarlochan Singh, have requested that NCERT acknowledge earlier contributors like Baba Ram Singh, who had championed the cause as far back as the 1860s.

The modules also celebrate India’s strides in space, defense, and health, showcasing successful initiatives. For instance, they mention Amul in dairy production, ISRO in space technology, and Ayurveda in wellness — all examples of how Indian brands can thrive globally.

Recent surveys show that a growing number of consumers prefer local products, reflecting a positive shift towards self-reliance. According to a 2023 survey by Nielsen, 70% of Indians are now more inclined to buy made-in-India goods, a significant increase from 50% just a few years ago.

In today’s tech-driven landscape, the modules argue that developing homegrown AI technologies is just as crucial as the raw materials like cotton and steel during the past. They highlight the importance of reducing reliance on foreign tech giants, which can also help safeguard data sovereignty.

Comparisons are made to countries like Vietnam and Israel, which have shown the strength of strategic self-reliance. The modules end with a powerful message: in 1905, the Swadeshi movement sparked resistance against colonial rule. Today, that spirit drives us toward self-sufficiency in a rapidly changing world, emphasizing the need for strong local industries in sectors like semiconductors and renewable energy.

Through these educational modules, NCERT aims to inspire a sense of pride in local products and a commitment to self-reliance that can shape India’s future.



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