Divya Delhi : On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said India is on track to become the world's third-largest economy but must stay focused on its own economic interests amid global economic turbulence. Just days before, U.S. President Donald Trump labeled India a "dead economy" after imposing a 25% duty on Indian imports and an undisclosed "penalty" for buying Russian military equipment and crude oil. Modi told a public forum in Varanasi, his parliamentary seat, on Saturday (August 2, 2025), "As we discuss economic progress, I want to call your attention to the global situation. Global economic upheaval is looming. Countries prioritize their own interests in such times. India is also on track to become the world's third-largest economy and must prioritize its economy." The prime minister reiterated that "we want India to become the third-largest economy" and that every party, leader, and citizen must promote 'Swadeshi'. The prime minister urged traders and shopkeepers, "In a time of uncertainty, let us commit to sell only Swadeshi goods from our shops and markets. Promoting Indian-made goods will benefit the nation most."