Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Sunday urged the youth to become job creators rather than job seekers by combining traditional local skills with modern technology, asserting that the state government was fully committed to promoting entrepreneurship.
Addressing a gathering after inaugurating Swadeshi Mahotsav-2025 in Panchkula, Saini said the government was extending comprehensive support to aspiring entrepreneurs through schemes such as Mudra, Stand-Up India and special subsidies for the MSME sector.
“Youth-led development of swadeshi technology will not only give birth to new enterprises but will also play a decisive role in making India a global leader,” he said.
Highlighting the evolving meaning of swadeshi in the startup era, the Chief Minister said the concept was no longer limited to traditional products alone. “Today, swadeshi is making its presence felt in advanced sectors such as technology, software, defence manufacturing and semiconductors,” he said.
Saini informed that Haryana has more than 12 lakh registered MSMEs, which together provide employment to around 65,000 people and make a significant contribution to the state’s economy.
The Chief Minister said the government was working consistently to strengthen local manufacturing in line with global standards. Under this vision, the ‘Padma’ scheme has been launched to recognise and promote the unique products of every block. Through the initiative, products such as Ambala’s scientific instruments, Panipat’s handloom textiles and Rewari’s brass craft will be developed and marketed as Brand India at national and international platforms.
Referring to the Haryana State Startup Policy-2022, Saini said it aims to build a skilled and innovative youth force capable of generating employment. He said Haryana currently ranks seventh in the country in terms of the number of startups, with over 9,500 recognised startups operating across the state. To further boost the ecosystem, a Rs 2,000-crore Fund of Funds is being set up to provide financial backing, enabling young entrepreneurs to pursue innovative ideas without financial constraints.
Recalling the role of swadeshi in India’s freedom movement, Saini said Mahatma Gandhi had used it as a powerful tool for self-reliance. “Today, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, swadeshi has acquired a new direction through the vision of a self-reliant India,” he said.
He noted that India has emerged as the world’s fourth-largest economy and is on track to become the third largest. Achieving the target of a $5 trillion economy by 2030, he said, would require the active participation of village artisans, self-help groups and micro-entrepreneurs.
Emphasising women’s empowerment, the Chief Minister said when women engage in activities such as tailoring, dairy farming and handicrafts, they not only secure livelihoods but also shape society’s future.
Earlier, Saini visited stalls showcasing swadeshi products, offered prayers at the Bharat Mata Temple and participated in yajna rituals. A pledge was taken to adopt five swadeshi products and renounce five foreign items. Several dignitaries were present on the occasion.