Indian Ministers Promote Domestic Apps Over US Tech Amid Trade Tensions

In response to the United States imposing a 50% tariff on Indian imports, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several cabinet ministers are strongly promoting the use of domestic Indian apps as alternatives to major U.S. tech platforms like Google Maps, WhatsApp, and Microsoft products. This campaign is part of Modi's broader "swadeshi" and Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiatives aimed at reducing reliance on foreign goods and digital infrastructure amid escalating trade and strategic tensions with the U.S. Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw showcased the use of Zoho, a domestic rival to Microsoft's PowerPoint, and MapmyIndia instead of Google Maps in official presentations, urging citizens to adopt indigenous products. Although American tech brands remain highly popular and aspirational in India, government officials like Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan have supported newer Indian messaging apps such as Arattai. Despite government backing, Indian companies face challenges in replacing global giants due to limited funding, market reach, and concerns about surveillance. Experts caution that while government support is crucial, it alone may not be sufficient to ensure the success of these domestic alternatives.