NCERT rolls out 'Swadeshi: Vocal for Local' modules inspired by PM’s call for self reliance

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has introduced two new modules titled 'Swadeshi: Vocal for Local,' which featured Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speech excerpts from Independence Day. In his speech, he emphasised that ‘self-reliance’ is the bedrock of national strength and encouraged citizens to use India-made goods, not out of compulsions but as an act of pride.

According to the Tribune media reports, the new modules talk about the ‘Swadeshi Movement’, which began in Calcutta Town Hall in 1905, when leaders such as Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai, and Bipin Chandra Pal encouraged people to stop using British goods and only support India-made products.

Later, Mahatma Gandhi called the ‘Swadeshi’ movement the ‘soul of swaraj’ and made it a bigger movement that focused on social and spiritual self-reliance.

The lessons also connect this idea to today’s efforts. Students are introduced to India’s Semiconductor Mission, which aims to give India more self-reliance, reducing the import dependence and building capacity that powers everything from smartphones to automobiles and defense systems.

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NCERT’s Swadeshi module

The NCERT's module has excerpts from the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative, wherein the government had identified 1,200 unique products from more than 750 districts across the country, from various sectors such as agriculture, food processing, handloom, handicrafts, and others. The initiative aimed to promote value addition, marketing, and connecting local products with global markets.

Along with high-tech progress, the modules also share inspiring stories of local entrepreneurs who are building businesses in their communities—showing how the spirit of “Vocal for Local” is growing.

Channapatna: Land of toys

For example, ‘Channapatna’ are traditional wooden toys made in Channapatna, Karnataka are renowned for their vibrant colours, smooth finish, and simple yet elegant designs. These toys are a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship.

Bodhi Sathwa Coir Works

In Kerala’s Alappuzha district, a woman from Mayithara turned her struggles into success in the coir industry. She started a business called ‘Bodhi Sathwa Coir Works' with a dream to support women workers.

She gave jobs to 30 skilled women who make handmade coir mats and helped women earn a steady income. Their mats are now sold in many countries. With her experience as a member of the Coir Board, she grew her business and became well-known across India and even in other countries.

The lessons used are examples given to help students understand the idea of Swadeshi goods. The modules show how children can choose traditional Indian toys like Channapatna dolls from Karnataka, and using the local handmade coir mats, support Indian artisans, keep our traditions alive, and give us safe, eco-friendly options instead of imported goods.