Trade union leader Thengdi's Swadeshi vision key to India's economic self-reliance: Traders body

Bhopal: The Swadeshi philosophy of eminent trade union leader late Dattopant Thengdi, with its emphasis on local production, indigenous industries and the welfare of farmers and workers, holds the key to India's economic self-reliance, said an official of a national traders outfit on Tuesday.

Balkrishna Bhartia, national convenor of the Swadeshi Vyapari Manch, said Thengdi was not merely an organiser, but a thinker who gave a distinct direction to Indian economic thought.

Speaking online at an event organised by the Swadeshi Vyapari Manch and the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) to mark Thengdi's 106th birth anniversary, Bhartia said his economic philosophy placed local production, indigenous industries and the prosperity of farmers and workers at the centre of national economic strength.

The occasion was observed as Swadeshi Sankalp Diwas, with participants pledging to promote Indian-made products, local businesses and industries and contribute to building a self-reliant India.

Bhartia stated that Thengdi devoted his life to the welfare of the nation and worked relentlessly for the interest of farmers, workers and traders.

At a time when the world was exploring alternatives between capitalism and communism, Thengdi presented an economic vision rooted in Indian culture, national requirements and social harmony, Bhartia maintained.

He cited the establishment of the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh in 1955, the Bharatiya Kisan Sangh in 1979 and the Swadeshi Jagran Manch in 1991 as examples of Thengdi's contribution to the country's economic and social life.

Bhartia said Swadeshi was not merely about using goods manufactured in India, but also encompassed economic independence, employment generation, protection of local enterprises and national self-respect.

He said empowering small traders, promoting Indian products and safeguarding the interests of farmers and workers would be a meaningful way of carrying forward Thengdi's vision.

CAIT Bhopal unit president Dharmendra Sharma said Thengdi's economic philosophy remained relevant in the present business environment, as he regarded indigenous production, local trade and the economic participation of every section of society as essential to national strength.

He urged people to give priority to Indian products, shop at local outlets and encourage small and cottage industries.

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