Why Gandhian message of ‘Swadeshi’ is still relevant today In this yearning for alternative thinking, the ideas of Mahatma Gandhi have been a constant attraction and a source of thought for present day changes Image Courtesy:timesofindia.indiatimes.com As the dominant model of economic development has led to high inequalities, increasing threats and problems for rural communities, a feeling of increasing loss of control and uncertainty for many people and colossal ecological ruin, there is a growing search worldwide for alternative patterns of development. In this yearning for alternative thinking, the ideas of Mahatma Gandhi have been a constant attraction and a source of thought for present day changes. While his emphasis on voluntary simplicity and frugality are already very well-known, there are several other aspects of his economic thinking which need to be better known.