Modi in Vadodara urges Indians to skip gold, cut imports, boost local spending
Synopsis
PM Modi used his Vadodara address to make an unusually direct appeal to Indian households — skip gold for now, avoid destination weddings abroad, carpool, and go local. The message signals growing concern about India's foreign exchange outflows and import dependency amid global economic headwinds.
Key Takeaways
PM Modi addressed citizens in Vadodara on 11 May 2025 , urging financial discipline and reduced import dependence.
He asked Indians to hold off on gold purchases , saying: "Gold is not necessary at this time." Modi called for a revival of the 'Vocal for Local' movement to support domestic industries and reduce pressure on foreign exchange reserves .
He urged citizens to avoid overseas destination weddings and foreign holidays, suggesting India's own sites — including the Statue of Unity — as alternatives.
On mobility, he encouraged the use of public transport , electric vehicles , and carpooling to cut petrol and diesel dependency.
Farmers were urged to adopt natural farming and reduce chemical fertiliser use for long-term soil health.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, 11 May called on Indians to exercise financial discipline and embrace greater self-reliance in consumption habits during an address in Vadodara. Speaking directly to citizens, Modi urged reduced dependence on imported goods, gold purchases, foreign travel, and fossil fuels — framing the appeal as a national economic imperative amid global uncertainty.
Key Developments
Modi made a pointed appeal on gold imports, stating:
Point of View
And destination weddings abroad represent a growing — if hard-to-quantify — foreign exchange drain. The appeal to citizens to voluntarily curb consumption is a softer lever than policy tools like import duties, but it also carries no enforcement mechanism. Whether 'Vocal for Local' can be revived as a genuine mass movement — rather than a slogan — depends on whether domestic alternatives are price-competitive and accessible, which remains an open question.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did PM Modi say about gold in his Vadodara speech?
PM Modi said that a large amount of national resources is spent on gold imports and urged citizens to exercise restraint, stating: "Gold is not necessary at this time." He suggested postponing such purchases until global conditions stabilise.
Why is PM Modi urging Indians to reduce imports?
Modi said increased use of foreign goods places pressure on India's foreign exchange reserves. He framed reduced consumption of imported items — including gold, edible oil, and fuel — as both an individual and national economic benefit.
What did Modi say about destination weddings and overseas travel?
Modi said overseas weddings and foreign holidays lead to significant foreign exchange outflows and urged people to consider India instead. He specifically recommended the Statue of Unity in Gujarat as a wedding venue, saying Sardar Patel would bless those who celebrate there.
What transport changes did PM Modi recommend?
Modi reiterated his appeal to reduce dependence on petrol and diesel, encouraging citizens to use public transport, electric vehicles, and shared mobility options. He also suggested carpooling as a practical step for households with multiple vehicles.
What did Modi say to farmers in his Vadodara address?
Modi urged farmers to adopt natural farming practices and reduce chemical fertiliser use, stating that soil protection and sustainability are essential for long-term agricultural health.
