Amid escalating trade tensions with the United States, triggered by Donald Trump slapping 50% tariff on Indian goods, Modi warned against the dangers of excessive dependence on other countries. “Those who rely too much on others invite a big question mark over their freedom. The real misfortune begins when dependence becomes a habit,” he said. Reiterating that self-reliance is not just about imports, exports, or currency, Modi stressed it was tied to a nation’s capabilities.