In a recent statement, former U.S. President Donald Trump described India as a “dead economy.” Shockingly, Indian political leader Rahul Gandhi echoed this sentiment, using it to attack the current government. What both these men fail to grasp — or deliberately ignore — is the reality of India’s economic and geopolitical strength.
Let’s start with the facts:
- 🇮🇳 India’s GDP growth in FY 2024-25: 7%
- 🇺🇸 U.S. GDP growth in H1 2025: 1.25%
- 🇷🇺 Russia’s GDP growth in 2024: -4.1%
India is, by far, the fastest-growing major economy in the world — driven by manufacturing, services, exports, infrastructure, and a digitally empowered population.
Meanwhile, the U.S. is barely growing, and Russia is shrinking. So who is the “dead economy” here?
The Hypocrisy of Trump
Donald Trump calls China America’s biggest threat, yet his policies end up helping China.
How?
He imposes tariffs on Apple and other U.S. multinational products manufactured in India — a democratic ally. These punitive actions discourage American companies from diversifying away from China.
Instead of supporting India as a reliable partner, Trump treats it as a threat. This isn’t strategy — this is short-sighted populism that benefits Beijing, not Washington.
Rahul Gandhi’s Echo Chamber Politics
What’s worse than Trump’s ignorance? An Indian leader endorsing it.
Rahul Gandhi, who constantly speaks of “saving democracy,” found himself aligning with a man known for undermining democratic values — simply because he saw an opportunity to score political points.
When a national leader amplifies a foreign voice that demeans India’s rise, it’s not dissent — it’s disgrace.
India needs an opposition that holds the government accountable while standing for the nation, not one that joins hands with foreign critics just to attack political rivals.
India Is Not the Problem. India Is the Solution.
India is not an expansionist power. It doesn’t threaten global stability — it strengthens it. As the world faces rising authoritarianism and economic stagnation, India offers something rare:
- A democratic system that works
- A young population ready to innovate and build
- A geopolitical balance that offers stability to both the East and the West
- A thriving market that welcomes global investment and fair competition
If anything, a strong and self-confident India solves problems for the West — by offering a counterweight to China, a partner in tech and defence, and a responsible voice in global affairs.
India has many challenges. But calling it a “dead economy” is not just inaccurate — it’s insulting. And when Indian leaders echo these falsehoods, they undermine the very nation they claim to serve.
At Unmukt, we believe in Dharma-based politics — rooted in truth, strength, and national pride. India doesn’t need validation from foreign leaders. But it does need its own citizens, especially its leaders, to stand with her — not against her.
Let critics speak. Let the facts roar louder.
Unmukt 